Honeycomb Echo Aviation Controller XPC launches November 20 for Xbox and PC flight sim fans
Honeycomb has confirmed the price and release date for its Echo Aviation Controller XPC, a compact flight simulation controller designed for Xbox and PC. The officially licensed Xbox accessory will go on sale in the United States on November 20 for $179.99, giving Microsoft Flight Simulator players a new all-in-one option for more immersive flying.
Instead of a traditional preorder, Honeycomb is using a reservation system for US customers. Buyers can reserve a unit without paying upfront. When stock is ready, the company will send an email invitation to complete the purchase. Customers will then have 48 hours to pay before the controller is offered to the next person in line.
At launch, reservations are limited to US addresses, but Honeycomb says availability in other regions will begin gradually from November 20. In Europe, the controller is listed at €179.99.
The Echo Aviation Controller XPC is built to bring several key cockpit controls into a smaller handheld format. It combines elements inspired by Honeycomb’s larger flight sim hardware, including yoke, throttle, and rudder control functions, making it a practical choice for players who want more realism without dedicating a full desk setup to flight simulation.
For flight control, the XPC uses a 16-bit TMR thumbstick for pitch and roll. Rudder control is handled by mechanically linked, self-centering Hall-effect paddles on the rear of the controller. This setup is designed to provide precise input while keeping the device compact and easy to use from a couch, chair, or desktop setup.
The controller also includes four detented sliders that can be used for throttle, flaps, and airbrakes. Honeycomb includes swappable slider caps, allowing users to choose between general aviation and airliner-style layouts. This should make the device more flexible for different aircraft types in Microsoft Flight Simulator and other compatible flight sim titles.
Additional controls include a textured trim wheel, a POV hat for camera movement, and dedicated levers for landing gear, flaps, and the parking brake. These physical inputs should help reduce the need to rely on keyboard shortcuts or on-screen menus during flight.
The Echo Aviation Controller XPC supports both USB and wireless connections. Battery life is rated at up to 15 hours, with USB-C charging available when it is time to recharge.
With its $179.99 price point, Xbox support, PC compatibility, wireless option, and broad set of flight controls, the Honeycomb Echo Aviation Controller XPC could become an appealing accessory for sim pilots who want a more authentic flying experience without investing in a full-size cockpit setup. Sales begin November 20, with wider regional availability expected to follow after launch.
