Description

Current Version:
For Microsoft Flight Simulator
CowanSim R22 v2.2 (10/03/25)
Compatibility Notice:
This product is designed for MSFS2020 but is compatible with MSFS2024. If starting cold & dark (engine/s off), use Shift + C to enter the cockpit on PC and if you’re on Xbox use LB + B. The EFB (tablet) can be used to adjust options, though some overlap issues persist. An official version tailored specifically for MSFS2024 will be released following the completion of its development. The MSFS2024 version will include new features exclusive to the 2024 release.
CowanSim R22 – Lightweight. Precise. Realistic.
Fly one of the most iconic two-seat helicopters ever built with the CowanSim R22 for Microsoft Flight Simulator. The R22 is famous for its precision handling, lightweight design, and unmatched training pedigree – ideal for student pilots, private flyers, and those looking to master the fundamentals of helicopter flight.
The CowanSim R22 is the result of countless development hours, real-world pilot feedback, and exacting fine-tuning. Every element – from startup to shutdown – has been carefully simulated to give you the most authentic R22 experience possible. This release brings multiple configurations, highly detailed avionics, and persistence features for a connected, repeatable experience every time you fly.
For setup instructions and hardware binding guidance, refer to the detailed manual included in the package folder. An online manual and checklist are also available for PC and Xbox users: https://cowansim.com/manuals-checklists/
Advanced SAS Autopilot System
Take advantage of the CowanSim Stability Augmentation System (SAS) with integrated autopilot modes designed to improve handling and precision:
-Force Trim Release (FTR) and trim hat support
-Attitude hold with proportional trim adjustment
-Heading hold (HDG)
-Navigation modes (VLOC & GPS)
-Speed hold (SPD)
-Altitude hold (ALT)
-Vertical mode (VRT) for ILS and GPS approaches
-Quick autopilot disconnect for immediate manual control
Advanced Systems and Realism
-Custom Bindable Throttle
-All Default Bindings Work
-Hardware Bindings Explained in Manual
-Detailed Manual and Paint Kit
-Persistence Saves Weight & Balance
-Persistence Saves Options for Next Flight
-Realistic Start-Up Procedure and System Logic
-Fully Functional Circuit Breakers
-Working Cabin Heater
-Custom Vibration Animations for Added Realism
Configurations and Avionics
-3 Panel Variants (G530/GTN/Analog)
-PMS GTN 650/750 Integration (PC)
-TDS GTNXi 650/750 Integration (PC)
-Solo-Control Option for Realistic Training Scenarios
Cabin and Interaction
-Individually Removable Doors
-Animated Passenger
-Interactive 3D In-Cockpit Checklist
-Dynamic Weight Options for Realistic CG Changes
Audio and Immersion
-Wwsie Fully Dynamic Sound Pack
-Accurate Rotor Slap, Blade Speed, and Environmental Effects
-3D Spatialized Cockpit and External Audio
-True-to-Life Switch Clicks, Warnings, and Engine Sounds
-Confirmed Fully VR Ready for Complete Immersion
Visual Detail and Customization
-22 Included Liveries
-High-Detail 4K PBR Textures
-Accurate 3D Modeling of All Components
-Custom 3D Instruments
-Detailed Night Lighting Throughout Cockpit and Cabin
-Professional Paint Kit (Photoshop & GIMP)
Built for training. Tuned for realism. Perfected for Microsoft Flight Simulator.
The CowanSim R22 is the ultimate platform to hone your helicopter skills, whether you are preparing for real-world flight training, practicing hover precision, or enjoying scenic flights.
Installation Instructions
- Unzip the Files: Extract the downloaded files into the “Community” folder for your version of Microsoft Flight Simulator.
- Reveal Hidden Files:
- By default, Windows hides the AppData folder.
- Open File Explorer, go to the View tab in the menu, and select Hidden items to make it visible.
Default “Community” Folder Locations
For Windows Store Installations:
- MSFS 2020:
C:\Users\[Your User Name]\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.FlightSimulator_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalCache\Packages\Community - MSFS 2024:
C:\Users\[Your User Name]\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.Limitless_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalCache\Packages\Community
For Steam Installations:
- MSFS 2020:
C:\Users\[Your User Name]\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.FlightDashboard_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalCache\Packages\Community - MSFS 2024:
C:\Users\[Your User Name]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024\Packages\Community
For Custom Installations:
If you chose a custom installation path during setup, your “Community” folder will be located within the directory you specified.
Come join our community!
CowanSim’s Discord server was born out of a desire to elevate customer service and foster a supportive community. Your active participation and invaluable feedback are the cornerstone of our progress. Stay up to date with development and make some new friends along the way! We’re thrilled to have you as a part of our journey. Join Now!








Jannik Stein (verified owner) –
After just about one hour of flying (.9 according to the hobbs), I can say this is the most fun I ever had in a helicopter in MSFS.
Cowan Simulation –
Awesome!!! Thank you!!!
Jeremy Surre (verified owner) –
This is the most realistic and functional MSFS helicopter so far! I have been practicing autorotations and am super excited that this model actually responds and you can manipulate the rotor rpm just like the real thing.
Cowan Simulation –
Awesome news!! Thank you!!!
Christopher Gall (verified owner) –
Feels a very realistic flight model – just like the real helicopter, this is rather sensitive on the controls but a real fun challenging helicopter once mastered. Auto rotations are realistic. Just a very nice helicopter to have in your virtual hanger. Thoroughly recommended.
Cowan Simulation –
Awesome!!!! Thank you!!!
Stefano Rutishauser (verified owner) –
As others said before – very realistic flight model! I was looking for a R22 / R44 to train and this model is the closest I’ve found so far in comparison to the real one. Thank you so much for your effort!
Cowan Simulation –
Thank you very much!!!!
Peter Novorolnik (verified owner) –
I’ve been waiting for r22 since I got MSFS. I finally got it :-). It flies nicely. The sounds are nice too. But… there are no dust swirl effects… it takes away from the realism. I firmly believe there will be an update 🙂
Cowan Simulation –
Thank you!! FX will be changing as things move along.
nigel mcelwee (verified owner) –
Fantastic helicopter! Only 1 issue I have is with the throttle. On other helicopters, it works fine but when I roll the throttle fully open on this one, the governor constantly tries to manage it back to 100 and it stays pegged over 110% and the throttle constantly moves.
The r66, 500e, 206, etc work perfect.
RadiusFox (verified owner) –
Coming at this as someone getting started in MSFS 2024 with a focus on VR. I’ve tried the R22 that comes with X-Plane 12, but I wanted to try MSFS 2024 for its world map so of course I had to find a way to get my beloved R22 into 2024! This model has worked perfectly and I’m very impressed. I find it’s actually much better than the helicopters included in 2024, even without features like opening up compartments from the outside. My experience with helicopters in 2024 wouldn’t have been nearly as good without this. Thank you so much for your effort!
Cowan Simulation (verified owner) –
Thank you!