Honeycomb Aeronautical has officially announced the Echo Aviation Controller XPC, a new version of their popular flight simulation controller designed for both Windows PC and Xbox Series X|S consoles. The device aims to lower the barrier to entry for realistic flight sims like Microsoft Flight Simulator by combining standard gamepad ergonomics with dedicated aviation controls.
What is the Echo Aviation Controller?
The original Echo Aviation Controller launched exclusively for PC, offering a unique hybrid design that merges an Xbox-style wireless controller with miniature throttles, levers, and switches. It allows players to manage pitch, roll, yaw, throttle, flaps, trim, and landing gear without needing separate joysticks or rudder pedals.
While the PC version received praise for its immersion and ease of use, it lacked native support for Xbox consoles. The new XPC edition resolves this gap, enabling console owners to experience high-fidelity flight simulation with purpose-built hardware rather than relying on standard gamepad inputs alone.
Key features and sensor technology
The Echo Aviation Controller XPC retains the advanced sensor suite found in its PC counterpart. It utilizes Hall-effect sensors for the analog sticks, eliminating physical contact between components to prevent drift over time. Additionally, it incorporates TMR (Tunneling Magnetoresistance) sensors for the throttle and other levers, ensuring precise, repeatable inputs critical for realistic flight dynamics.
The controller’s layout includes dedicated buttons and sliders for essential aircraft functions such as landing gear deployment, parking brakes, and flap adjustments. This consolidation of controls into a single handheld device simplifies setup while maintaining a high degree of realism compared to traditional gamepads.
Release date and availability
Honeycomb Aeronautical has confirmed that the Echo Aviation Controller XPC will begin shipping in Fall this year. No specific calendar date or pre-order window has been announced yet. The company stated in a press release that this launch marks their first entry into console peripherals, with plans to expand further.
Marc Küpper, CTO at Honeycomb Aeronautical, noted the goal is to broaden the audience for flight simulation by allowing console users to enjoy the thrill of flight in a more relaxed environment. The XPC model will likely render the PC-only Echo somewhat obsolete for new buyers who prefer Xbox-style face buttons and cross-platform compatibility.
What this means for you: If you’ve been interested in Microsoft Flight Simulator on Xbox but felt limited by standard controller inputs, the Echo Aviation Controller XPC offers a middle ground between casual gaming and complex cockpit setups. It provides tactile feedback and dedicated controls without requiring a desk full of peripherals.
Source: Overload PR / Honeycomb Aeronautical
Source: Latest from Windows Central
Over to you: Would you switch to the Echo Aviation Controller for Xbox flight sims, or do you prefer traditional joystick setups?
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