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SimLoad Manager

SimLoad Manager is a FlyWithLua script that simulates realistic passenger boarding, cargo loading, and fuel loading for X-Plane 12. It integrates with SimBrief to import flight plan data (passenger count, cargo weight, fuel amounts) and provides real-time progress bars with dynamic time estimates.

Background

  • Developer: RackhamRPL
  • Download: X-Plane.org
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux (pure Lua)
  • Compatibility: X-Plane 12
  • Dependencies: FlyWithLua NG+, SGES (for ground equipment integration)
  • Optional: SimBrief account (manual entry and Flight Sim Deck also supported as data sources)

The script is actively maintained with frequent updates. It supports Laminar default aircraft (B737-800, A330-300, MD-82), Zibo/Level Up B737 variants, ToLiss aircraft, and X-Crafts E-Jets. Q4XP is excluded (uses its own tablet system).

Features

  • Realistic loading simulation: Passengers board dynamically based on cargo and fuel progress, with automatic unit detection (kg/lbs)
  • Multiple data sources: SimBrief auto-import, manual entry, or Flight Sim Deck integration
  • Departure and Arrival modes: Two distinct operational workflows, each with dedicated steps
  • Turnaround and RON: Automatic new flight plan detection during turnaround, Remain Over Night handling
  • Ground handling stages: Crew Briefing, Catering & Cleaning integrated into the workflow (Crew Briefing can be skipped via settings)
  • Multiple speed modes: Realistic, Fast, Very Fast, or Custom (fully editable timing)
  • Progress visualization: Real-time progress bars with dynamic time estimates for PAX, cargo, and fuel
  • Loadsheet generation: Automatic realistic loadsheet (SLMLS system), adapts to data source
  • SGES integration: Automatically triggers stairs, belt loaders, fuel trucks, cones, and passenger flow depending on stand type
  • Beacon-aware safety stops: All operations halt when the rotating beacon is activated
  • Sound effects: Ambient sounds and AI-generated voice alerts during loading
  • AutoDGS compatibility: Jetway/stairs control with conflict avoidance
  • SimChecklist.eu integration: Connects with the online checklist service
  • API for external tools: Custom X-Plane commands and exposed datarefs

Value in Flight Simulation

Instant loading breaks immersion — real turnarounds take time and follow a sequence. SimLoad Manager adds a realistic ground operations phase to each flight: passengers board while cargo is loaded, fuel trucks arrive, and the loadsheet is generated when everything is complete. Combined with SGES, the ramp comes alive during turnaround.

Installation

Download: X-Plane.org

Place the following into Resources/plugins/FlyWithLua/Scripts/:

  • SimLoadManager.lua — main script
  • SLM-Data/ — data folder (sounds, loadsheet module, settings)

Do not rename the SLM-Data/ folder or its contents.

Updating from earlier versions

Delete all previous SimLoad Manager files from FlyWithLua/Scripts/ before installing v3.x. The folder structure has changed — old files like SimLoadManager_loadsheet.lua and SimLoad-Manager-Sounds/ are no longer used.

Sources