Basic maneuvering . Flying at 5,000 feet, we performed gentle turns and pitch changes to evaluate the precision of the base during small, accurate control inputs.
Turbulent approach . We performed an approach into Las Vegas under hot, windy conditions with strong updrafts and downdrafts. This scenario required larger, more frequent control inputs to assess the resistance and how the base handles turbulence and rapid corrections.
Curved approach . Finally, we flew the RNAV Visual approach to Runway 1R at San Francisco International Airport. This approach is available in MSFS 2024 if you use the Navigraph database, but it is missing the RF leg between the waypoints KLAUS and SQIRL, so we added it to the navigation database of the Fenix A320 ourselves. The procedure features a sweeping right-hand arc that continues until roughly one mile from the runway threshold, requiring the aircraft to remain in a turn at very low altitude. The approach demands precise tracking of the flight path while also requiring a smooth, accurate transition to the runway centerline after the final waypoint. This scenario tested both the precision and responsiveness of the AVA Base.
While flying at 5,000 feet, we were impressed by the AVA Base’s precision when making small adjustments to both pitch and roll. Compared to the Warthog and TCA Airbus Sidestick, the AVA Base allowed for significantly finer roll inputs, making it easier to make small corrections and maintain a precise flight path.
When controlling vertical speed through pitch adjustments, we were able to consistently achieve the desired climb or descent rate within approximately 100 feet per minute, demonstrating the level of control possible with the high-resolution sensors.
Landing in Las Vegas during the summer can be a challenging experience. The combination of extreme heat, strong winds, and thermals along the approach path can create significant turbulence, resulting in a much less stable approach. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is able to replicate these conditions through its Live Weather system. While it is important to avoid overcorrecting and creating pilot-induced oscillations, these conditions require more frequent and sometimes larger control inputs than a typical approach.
The AVA Base handled this turbulent approach very well. The conditions forced us to make slightly larger inputs, so we felt the progressive resistance of the base as we moved further from center, which felt authentic. We were also able to make very quick corrections to counter the turbulence and keep the aircraft on the published approach path.
During the RNAV Visual approach to Runway 1R at San Francisco International Airport, we were able to precisely track the sweeping right-hand arc all the way to the final waypoint, SQIRL. Once established at SQIRL, the AVA Base’s responsiveness allowed us to smoothly align with the runway centerline.
Other products, including the Warthog and TCA Airbus Sidestick, produced more noticeable jerky movements during this approach, which is likely due to lower precision around the neutral position.
After putting the AVA Base and Airbus Add-On Grip through extensive testing, we came away extremely impressed with the experience. As competitors have continued to close the gap with Thrustmaster Warthog — and even surpass it — the AVA Base represents a return to the level of quality and refinement we have come to expect from the brand.
The AVA Base delivered exceptional precision, smooth control, and an authentic Airbus-like feel across a variety of challenging flight scenarios. The addition of the recently released Airbus Add-On Grip finally allows users to pair this high-end base with a dedicated airline-style sidestick, making it a compelling option for anyone who regularly flies Airbus aircraft.
The biggest obstacle is the price. The level of engineering and build quality comes at a premium, which may put the AVA Base and Airbus Add-On Grip out of reach for many users. However, for those looking for a high-quality Airbus stick and willing to invest in a premium setup, the Thrustmaster AVA Base paired with the Airbus Add-On Grip is a compelling option.
Dan Mateescu Social Links Navigation Contributor Dan Mateescu is a PC enthusiast with many years of experience benchmarking PC hardware. In 2021, he started his own YouTube channel called 'Compusemble' where he benchmarks hardware in video games and the latest tech demos.
Key considerations
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Reference reading
- https://www.tomshardware.com/peripherals/controllers-gamepads/SPONSORED_LINK_URL
- https://www.tomshardware.com/peripherals/controllers-gamepads/thrustmaster-airbus-add-on-grip-with-ava-joystick-base-review#main
- https://www.tomshardware.com/membership
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