For flight simulation enthusiasts, the dream of having a replica cockpit is often in the back of our minds as we try to make the home experience as close as possible to the real thing.
With Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024 pushing the boundaries of what is possible virtually—with their highly realistic renditions of our planet, immersive weather simulations, and, of course, highly detailed aircraft both in terms of visuals and systems—it’s our real world, the one just in front of us at the desk, that may be starting to fall behind. After all, a keyboard and mouse and a couple of flight controls to the side aren’t exactly state-of-the-art realism. For that, we need a proper attempt to build something that looks and feels just like being inside an aircraft.
That elusive dream is often within reach of only a few, whose finances allow for such passionate splurges. For everyone else, there are solutions in the market that bridge that gap, and today we’re featuring one option that is also one of the coolest community projects around. It’s called AuthentiKit, and it’s a community-driven initiative that offers free 3D-printable flight controls designed to bring the feel of authentic cockpits to your desktop.
Whether you’re flying a Spitfire MkIX, a Mustang P-51, or a Mosquito, AuthentiKit’s innovative approach combines quality engineering with accessibility, making it a clear standout in the hardware space within the flight simulation community.
The AuthentiKit origin story
AuthentiKit kicked off in 2019, and the idea was simple: make flight controls that are authentic, affordable, and accessible to mere mortals with a 3D printer. Four years later, they’ve built a dedicated community of over 3,000 members who print, assemble, and share controls for everything from warbirds like the Spitfire and P-51D to general aviation classics like the Piper PA-24 Comanche.
And it’s all freeware. Yes, no hidden charges or premium subscriptions. Just download the files, follow the guides, and start building. Or, if you don’t own a 3D printer, you can grab a pre-made kit from a partner such as Simulation Kit Supplies.
AuthentiKit delivers the immersive experience of a replica cockpit in a modular, quick-to-assemble format. The controls, designed for visual and tactile realism, are grounded in authentic engineering and historical provenance, including collaborations with organizations like the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
At the heart of the system is the Universal Control Hub, a single USB interface that connects all controls, allowing users to set up and break down their virtual cockpit in minutes. This makes it ideal for simmers who need to reclaim their desk for other uses—or for those of us who don’t have a dedicated sim room.
Unlike traditional DIY projects requiring advanced technical skills, AuthentiKit is built for a broader audience. It’s fun to assemble, straightforward, and rewarding. The system’s precision engineering includes features like hydraulic damping, sealed bearings, and Hall-effect sensors, ensuring smooth and accurate input.
The project’s open-source nature ensures accessibility while keeping costs reasonable. For example, a full Spitfire MkIX setup—including hardware and printed parts—can be built for around £280 if you own a 3D printer.
The Spitfire MkIX: AuthentiKit’s flagship
The Spitfire MkIX cockpit is AuthentiKit’s most advanced project to date. Developed with input from the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, this setup gives you everything you need to live your Spitfire pilot fantasy. There’s a throttle, trim wheels, gear lever, flaps lever, a gunsight, and, of course, that iconic flight stick.
The controls are designed to match their real-world counterparts in both placement and feel, offering an unparalleled level of immersion. Once it’s built, you’ll attach everything to a rock-solid mounting system that’s as precise as the controls themselves. The whole setup connects via the Universal Hub, so you only need one USB cable to get airborne.
More than just the Spitfire
While the Spitfire MkIX is the most complete project, AuthentiKit has expanded its offerings to include other iconic aircraft, such as the Mustang P-51 and Mosquito. The team has also ventured into general aviation, developing controls for the Piper PA-24 Comanche in collaboration with A2A Simulations.
As these additional aircraft projects continue to evolve, AuthentiKit aims to bring them to the same level of completeness as the Spitfire.
Getting started with AuthentiKit
AuthentiKit’s community is ready to welcome you with open arms. You can download the files for free, start small with a simple control, and work your way up to a fully immersive cockpit.
To learn more about AuthentiKit and download the free 3D printing files, visit their official website.