Prepar3D grew out of Microsoft's sale of Flight Simulator to Lockheed Martin.
Historical:
2010 Prepar3D 1.0 based on Microsoft ESP
2011 April - Prepar3D 1.1
2011 September - Prepar3D 1.2
2012 March - Prepar3D 1.3
2012 August - Prepar3D 1.4
2013 November - Prepar3D 2.0
Professional license cost (January 2014) $199.00
Professional developer license cost (January 2014) $9.95 per month
The Academic (student) license cost (January 2014) $59.95
Prepar3D is a professional flight simulation developed by Lockheed Martin, based on the graphics engine of Microsoft Flight Simulator X. While primarily aimed at training and professional uses, it has also been utilized by flight simulation enthusiasts.
Professional Use
"Prepar3D" is primarily designed for use by government, military, educational, and corporate organizations. It has been used for pilot training, mission analysis, search and rescue flight simulation, and more.
Advanced Graphics
The graphics engine of "Prepar3D" is based on Microsoft Flight Simulator X technology but has been further developed to offer enhanced graphics and improved performance.
Realism
The game provides a high level of realism in flight models, atmosphere, weather conditions, and environment. Scenarios can be highly detailed and customized for specific training or simulation purposes.
Training Support
"Prepar3D" has been used by many organizations for pilot training due to its accuracy and the ability to create customized scenarios to fit training needs.
Modifications and Add-Ons
Like "Microsoft Flight Simulator X," "Prepar3D" supports a variety of mods and add-ons created by the community and third-party developers. These can include additional aircraft, custom scenarios, development tools, and graphical enhancements.
Versions
"Prepar3D" has various versions, including "Prepar3D Academic" for educational purposes, "Prepar3D Professional" for commercial uses, and "Prepar3D Professional Plus" with advanced features for training simulations.
"Prepar3D" has become a standard in the flight training and simulation industry and continues to be used by organizations worldwide for professional and educational purposes.