About Lucas Winter
My name is Lucas Winter, I'm 18 years old and just this year passed my highschool in Zürich Switzerland, with a focus on applied mathematics and physics. Starting in September 2025, I will be studying physics at ETH Zürich, one of the leading universities in Europe.
I'm an avid aviation, space and technology enthusiast, which lead me to finding a way to combine those interests into a hobby of mine which soon after became a business. With 16 years I started working on the recreation of aircraft systems in microsoft Flightsimulator, with the intend of selling them to the public. Eever since I build up a team of like-minded individuals who share my passion and vision and ventured into the world of flight simulation development.
Not only do I develop aircraft for Microsoft Flight Simulator, but I also have a keen interest in web development and programming. I have experience in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, C++, and Java, which I use to create interactive and engaging applications. My goal is to leverage my skills and optimise my usage of time by automating tasks and creating tools that enhance my productivity and the quality of my work. Whilst all meant in a positive way, my eye for detail, especcially when it comes to the accuracy of aircraft systems, can sometimes lead to perfectionism and a tendency to spend too much time on small details. However, I believe that this attention to detail is what sets my work apart and allows me to create high-quality products that meet the needs of my users.
Besides my work in the flight simulation industry, I am also a student pilot at Stoffelaviation, where I am currently working towards my Private Pilot License (PPL). I fly out of Speck-Fehraltdorf (LSZK) near Zürich, where I am training on a small 60 year old French plane called DR1050 M1 Jodel. I've also been sailing 29er dinghies for several years now, which lead me to participate in several regattas, including the Swiss Championship in 2023. The thrill of racing and the challenge of mastering the boat are incredibly rewarding. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis and exploring the world of cyber security / networking and learning new programming languages.
My Skills
Programming Knowledge:
Frontend Development
Backend Development
Private Pilot License:
I am currently a student Pilot at Stoffelaviation flying out of Speck-Fehraltdorf (LSZK) near Zürich, where I am working towards my Private Pilot License (PPL). Most of my training is done on a small 60 year old French plane called DR1050 M1 Jodel.
As I have always been fascinated by aviation, I decided to take the step and get my PPL not only to make a dream of mine come true, but also to gain a deeper understanding of the systems and processes involved in flying. This knowledge has been invaluable in my flight simulation projects, where I strive to create realistic and immersive Add-On planes for Microsoft Flight Simulator.
My Projects
Skyward Simulations | Aircraft Development for Microsoft Flight Simulator
In December 2023, I founded my own company, Skyward Simulations. In May, we released our first aircraft, a Diamond DA50rg, for Microsoft Flight Simulator. Three other people were involved in this project alongside me. According to external feedback and our own assessment, our DA50, with a market price of $15, is one of the best aircraft available for the flight simulator in terms of value for money.
We're currently working on a recreation of the Cessna Citation C680 Sovereign+, aiming to deliver a detailed and authentic business jet experience for flight simulation enthusiasts.
Diamond DA50rg
The Diamond DA50 RG: Redefining the Modern Piston Single
Soaring into the spotlight, Diamond Aircraft's DA50 RG sets a new standard for high-performance, single-engine piston aircraft. Certified in Europe (EASA) in late 2021 and in the US (FAA) by mid-2023, this aircraft is a thoroughly modern machine.
Its foundation is advanced engineering. The airframe utilizes lightweight yet incredibly strong carbon fiber composites, enhancing both efficiency and durability. At its heart is a single Continental CD-300 diesel engine, delivering 300 horsepower while running on readily available Jet-A fuel. This powerplant features sophisticated Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC), significantly simplifying engine management for pilots.
The performance figures are compelling. The retractable-gear DA50 RG achieves a maximum cruise speed of 230 knots True Airspeed and boasts an impressive maximum range of approximately 1,000 nautical miles (including reserves), making it a true cross-country cruiser. It comfortably accommodates up to five occupants, typically configured for four adults plus a child or extra baggage, alongside a practical baggage compartment.
Safety is paramount, highlighted by a standard-equipment ballistic parachute system for the entire aircraft – an invaluable emergency safeguard. Pilots are treated to a state-of-the-art Garmin G3000 integrated glass cockpit as the baseline configuration, offering exceptional situational awareness and cutting-edge avionics.
Combining modern materials, efficient jet-fuel power, impressive speed and range, enhanced safety, and top-tier avionics, the Diamond DA50 RG stands as a benchmark for sophisticated, capable, and safe piston-powered travel.
Key Features:
- Accurate 3D model
- True-to-life definition textures
- Custom-coded systems, including ECU & TKS
- Ground Idle function simulated
- Accurate flight model
- Working Title Garmin G1000NXI integration
- Immersive custom sounds by Boris Audio Works
Cessna Citation C680 Sovereign +
Business Jet Development
The Cessna 680 Sovereign+: Elevating the Mid-Size Jet Experience
The Cessna 680 Sovereign+ stands as a premier choice in the mid-size business jet category, expertly balancing performance, comfort, and advanced technology. Building on the legacy of the original Sovereign, the "+" variant delivers significant enhancements for discerning operators.
Performance is a key strength. Fact: Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW306D turbofan engines, the Sovereign+ boasts a maximum cruise speed of 482 knots (True Airspeed) and an impressive maximum range of 3,200 nautical miles (with NBAA IFR reserves). This capability allows it to effortlessly connect major business centers like London to Dubai or New York to Los Angeles non-stop, slashing travel times across continents.
Step inside, and the Sovereign+ reveals its spacious, executive-class cabin. Fact: It comfortably accommodates up to 9 passengers in a typically configured executive layout. Fact: A significant advantage is its stand-up cabin height (6 feet / 1.83 meters) and flat floor, making it one of the most spacious cabins in its class. Fact: The large baggage compartment (115 cubic feet / 3.26 cubic meters) is accessible in-flight, adding to its practicality for extended journeys.
Technologically, the Sovereign+ excels. Fact: It features the advanced Garmin G5000 avionics suite as standard, presenting flight information across large, high-resolution displays and integrating comprehensive flight management, navigation, communication, and surveillance systems. Enhanced safety features include automatic pressurization control, weather radar, and standard traffic and terrain awareness systems (TCAS II, TAWS, and ADS-B Out).
Combining transcontinental range, best-in-class cabin space, cutting-edge avionics, and proven reliability, the Cessna 680 Sovereign+ delivers a refined and highly capable travel solution, solidifying its position as a top-tier mid-size business tool where time is money.
Key Features:
- Highly detailed 3D model with PBR materials
- Custom avionics implementation
- Accurate flight performance based on real-world data
- Interactive cabin with functional systems
Use Python to save time
I have always been fascinated by Technology and the Internet, which led me to start coding at a young age. I began with some locode nocode platforms, but quickly realized that I was very limited by its functionality. Thus I decided to learn how to code Python, which was a usefull asset during my school years, as I was able to automate many tasks and create small applications to help me with my studies. Among other things, I created a small Python script that could automatically translate PDF files of my French Books into English. Whilst my French knowledge most likely didn't benefit from this, it was a great learning experience and as a side benefit saved me a lot of time.
Web Development | Code in HTML and Javascript
As HTML experience is a must for any major Add-On development for Microsoft Flight Simulator, I decided to learn HTML and Javascript. I started with some simple projects, such as creating a personal website (that you are visiting right now).
Takeoff Distance Performance Tool
A fact that always annoyed me while flying the Jodel DR1050 M1 Jodel was the fact that I had to calculate the takeoff distance manually, as the plane's performance charts were not available in a digital format. To solve this problem, I created a small web application that allows me to calculate the takeoff distance based on the current weather conditions and aircraft configuration.
As the interactive window below might not be formatted correctly, you can also access the tool directly at HB-SEW.uk. (Note: This website is optimized for Ipad and Desktop use, so it might not work correctly on mobile devices.)
My Hobbies
29er & 49er Sailing
I've been Sailing 29er dinghies for several years now, and it's become one of my biggest passions. The thrill of racing and the challenge of mastering the boat are incredibly rewarding.
Playing Tennis
My Education
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Contact Me
"The first principle is that you must not fool yourself—and you are the easiest person to fool." - Richard Feynman