What is AIR³ XCT Addon?
The AIR³ XCT add-on is an advanced companion app for XCTrack that enhances your flying experience with specific features. In this FAQ, we will focus only on the vario features, even though the AIR³ XCT Add-On has many other functionalities.
It works alongside XCTrack, but it can also be used as a standalone vario (in such rare case, it must be started manually because XCTrack will not trigger it automatically at takeoff).
Can I use both XCTrack vario and AIR³ XCT Addon vario at the same time?
Technically yes, you can run both simultaneously, but this is NOT recommended as:
- You’ll hear overlapping audio feedback which can be confusing
- Both systems will consume battery and processing power
- The audio cues may conflict and cause distraction while flying
Recommendation: Choose one vario system and disable the other. Use AIR³ Manager to choose which vario sound you want to use.
Feature Comparison
What are the main differences between XCTrack vario and AIR³ XCT Addon vario?
| Feature | XCTrack Vario | AIR³ XCT Addon Vario |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Lift Detection | Not available | ✅ Hardware-based instant lift detection with AIR³ accelerometers and gyroscopes |
| Weak Lift Audio | Basic feature | ✅ Advanced weak lift feature |
| Sound Types | Single beep pattern | ✅ Many sound types: Classic, Triplet, Sawtooth, Chirp, Pulse, Organic |
When to Choose XCTrack Vario
XCTrack vario is best for you if:
✅ Simplicity is your priority
- You want a straightforward, out-of-the-box vario experience
- You are used to the sound of the XCTrack Vario and prefer to stick with what you know.
✅ Universal compatibility
- You fly with different devices and want consistent behavior
- You don’t have AIR³ hardware
✅ Proven stability
- You value XCTrack’s mature, extensively tested vario system
When to Choose AIR³ XCT Addon Vario
AIR³ XCT Addon vario is best for you if:
✅ You own an AIR³ device
- You want to leverage the AIR³’s hardware sensors
- You want instant lift detection (instant response)
- You want the most responsive vario experience possible
✅ Advanced audio customization
- You enjoy experimenting with different sound types (Triplet, Organic, etc.)
✅ Enhanced situational awareness
- You want to hear the lift without any lag
- You want weak lift info to help you identify lift edges
Quick Decision Guide
Choose XCTrack Vario if you want:
- Simple, reliable, tested solution
- Minimal setup and configuration
- Known sound “color”
Choose AIR³ XCT Addon Vario if you want:
- Instant lift detection
- Advanced audio customization
- Weak lift advanced sound
- Multiple sound types
Both systems are excellent. Your choice depends on your flying style, experience level, and preference for simplicity/legacy vs. advanced vario features.
Can I contribute to AIR³ XCT Addon development?
Yes! The project welcomes:
- Bug reports with detailed reproduction steps
- Feature suggestions based on flying experience
- Sound configuration profiles for different conditions
English 
Français