In the world of flight simulation, it's often the small details that bring the biggest thrills. While many simmers start with basic yokes or throttle quadrants, there's a whole new level of immersion waiting above your head. Literally. That’s where overhead panels come in.
If you’ve ever dreamed of cold and dark starts, managing lighting systems, or simply making your sim cockpit feel “real,” then integrating an overhead panel is one of the most satisfying upgrades you can make.
But with different models available—like the A320 Cabin Light Panel and the A350+A320 Dual Function Overhead Panel—how do you choose the right one?
🔍 What Exactly Is an Overhead Panel?
What is the overhead panel? The previous blog provides more straightforward explanations. So, I won't go into too much detail here. If you need to read them, just take a look at these two blogs--A107，A106.
In commercial aircraft like the Airbus A320 or A350, the overhead panel is used to manage cabin lighting, fuel pumps, de-icing, fire detection, and more. In simulation, it replicates those same controls—allowing you to perform full start-up procedures, lighting configurations, and even emergency protocols just like real-world pilots.
Now, let’s break down the two panels.
🛫 Option 1: A101 Cabin Light Panel （A320）
This is a dedicated lighting module, designed for those who want to enhance their Airbus cockpit with control over ceiling, flood, and dome lights. It replicates key lighting controls used during preflight checks, taxi, takeoff, and landing phases.
●Ideal for: Users who want to enhance lighting realism without a full overhead setup.
●Setup note: Not plug-and-play, but easy to configure once via Mobiflight.
● Price justification: Lower price reflects the focused feature set—this isn’t a full system, but a module that does one job well.
🛫 Option 2: A102 Dual Overhead Panel（A350 + A320）
This larger and more complex unit combines elements from both A320 and A350 overhead layouts. It includes fire control systems, engine start functions, lighting, electrical paneling, and more. Ideal for those flying both aircraft types or wanting a richer simulation experience.
● Perfect for: Intermediate to advanced simmers who fly multiple Airbus models.
● Advantages: Covers broader systems, supports more procedural realism.
● Price justification: You’re getting two aircraft panels in one, with significantly more switches, functions, and build complexity.
🤔 So... Which One’s Right for You?
If you’re new to overhead panels or focused specifically on lighting, the A320 Cabin Light Panel is a great entry point. It’s budget-friendly and easy to set up.
But if you're building a full sim rig or want more procedural involvement, the A350+A320 Overhead Panel delivers twice the depth and supports two different Airbus experiences. The price is higher—but so is the simulation potential.
🤝 Why Our Team Cares
We’re not just a store. We’re a small group of independent sim fans who believe everyone deserves access to the joy of deep simulation—without spending thousands. That’s why we’re committed to building high-value, affordable flight sim gear, made by people who actually fly sims.
🔜 What’s Next?
In our next post, we’ll dive into the differences between the A101, A102, A106, and A107 overhead panels—breaking down their features and helping you decide what fits best in your sim cockpit.
Until then, happy flying—and may your skies always be clear!
