Computer Pilot 2007-09

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 2007
USA $7.95
CANADA $9.95
AUSTRALIA $9.85 (INC. GST)
A PC AVIATOR PUBLICATION
COLD & DARK

A Flight Simmers Dilemma!
FLYING GREEN
Opening Your Eyes to the World Around Us
THE RED PLANET
X-ploring Mars with X-Plane
CREATING A GLASS COCKPIT DISPLAY

Basics for Beginners
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NEW RELEASE PRODUCTS
The latest flight simulator titles in stock!
Vox ATC-X Deluxe
TweakFS Utility
Collection for FSX
Finally Voice Recognition for Talking

To Microsoft Flight Simulator X
Air Traffic Control
Five Great FSX Tweaking Tools on One CD!

TweakFS Utility Collection brings together what is
arguably the most useful ensemble of FSX tweaking
software ever launched under the one banner.
You can now talk to the controllers using standard

ATC phraseology and what you say will be heard!
Real voice recognition and controllers that adhere
to real-world ATC procedures... using both FAA and European procedures that
automatically switch as you cross the Atlantic.
As a group these five unique applications each have a different scope and purpose,
but come with a consistent look and feel. Between them they can handle well over
1000 settings and variables in FSX.
VoxATC works with the Microsoft integrated voice recognition and text to speech
engines that are already included as part of Windows XP and Vista. In addition,
the product includes two licensed 16-bit voices from AT&T Natural Voice. These
voices enhance the text-to-speech so it sounds just as natural as recorded WAV
voices in other ATC products that do not include voice recognition.
CODE:
VOXATCX
Price:
US$74.95 // AUD$104.95
*SUB PRICE: US$71.20 // AUD$99.70
Flight Simulator Repaint

Version 2
All the tools are designed with one important principle in mind - a one-click
restore from backup function. This means an adjustment can be applied with
complete impunity and there is always the bailout option if there are any
funnies, the one justifiable concern that holds many back from making
changes to their FS setup.
CODE:
TFSUCFSX
Price:
US$59.95 // AUD$74.95
*SUB PRICE: US$56.95 // AUD$71.20
Cessna 441 Conquest II

For FSX
The absolute simplest way to change the

look your Flight Simulator aircraft!
A Luxury Cabin Class, Twin Turboprop
FS Repaint is the simplest way to change the visual appearance of your aircraft.
You can easily change the look of your aircraft in a few easy steps:
The Cessna 441 Conquest II is a luxury cabin class,

twin turboprop aircraft that cruises in excess of 300
mph and at an altitude of up to 35,000 ft. Flight 1s
441 Conquest II uses high definition gauges and panel
systems with unique panel perspective views. Combined with accurate flight
modeling and state of the art 3-D modeling, the 441 Conquest II is the premier
twin turboprop aircraft for FSX and FS2004.
1. Load an existing aircraft

2. Change the paint scheme (modify the textures)
3. View the modifications immediately in 3D view
4. Save the repainted aircraft
5. Fly your new aircraft!
The 441 Conquest II also includes Flight Ones proprietary Text-o-Matic aircraft
repainting utility. Text-o-Matic allows you to download additional user created
paint schemes and install them on your system with just a couple mouse-clicks.
The 441 Conquest II package also includes extensive documentation, checklists,
specifications and a step-by-step tutorial to get you flying in no time.
With FS Repaint youll be able to easily make

impressive visual changes to your favorite virtual
aircraft in just minutes.
CODE:
FSREPV2
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$44.95
*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$42.70
CODE:
C441X
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$49.95
*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$47.45
*Denotes special price for current Computer Pilot Magazine subscribers and reflects a 5% discount off the regular retail price.
NEW RELEASEThePRODUCTS
latest flight simulator titles in stock!
FS Discover
Flight Operation Center
A Tour Guide For FSX And FS2004
The Ultimate Flight Planner For FSX

And FS2004/2002!
FSDiscover! is a Flight Simulator sightseeing guide,

a navigation tool, and a simple flight planner, all in
one single product for Flight Simulator X and Flight
Simulator 2004. FSDiscover! is preloaded with over
3.6 million geographic names from all over the world.
There are also 1900 specialized points of interest for
FSX, and 600 specialized points of interest for FS2004, including all the Easter
eggs and unique landmark buildings within these simulators.
Flight Operation Center is a highly sophisticated flight

planning tool incorporating many professional features
normally only seen in real world airline operations.
Features Include:
Accurate planning tool for all types of aircraft
ETOPS, EROPS, STOPS Operation, spezial cruise operations and
realistic flight over the North Atlantic
Professional Route Editor
Worldwide Navigation Database, including SID-STAR routes, Airways,
Waypoints, Navigational Aids, and many more features
Send flight plans to MS Flight Simulator X, 2004 and 2002
at the touch of a button
CODE:
FOC
Some of the geographic features that will be identified include:

Mountains, Streams, Valleys, Beaches, Rapids, Parks, Lakes, Islands, Harbors,
Glaciers, Forests, Waterfalls, Canals, Bridges, Dams, and much more!
The planning features allow you to plan simple elaborate sightseeing excursions!
Ultimate Defrag Lite

UltimateDefrag Lite is the Lite version of the worlds
most powerful and flexible defragger, UltimateDefrag.
If youre not a power user but want your hard drive performance optimized and
defragged faster and better than default Windows XP and Vista defraggers then
you need to get UltimateDefrag Lite!
Achieve Optimum Performance Hard Drive File Access

One click defrag with OptiSeek Technology that automatically achieves the
fastest seek times possible for your hard drive
Place Directories In The Optimum Position For Performance
Defrag with as little as 1% FREE space
Make Full Drives Perform Almost Like Theyve Been Newly Formatted
The First Complete DISK Metaphor In Any Defragger!
CODE:
ULTDEFLTE
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$44.95
*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$42.70
MegaScenery Dallas /
Ft Worth
One Click Defrag That Will Make Your

PC Performance Soar!
CODE:
FSDISC
Price:
US$59.95 // AUD$84.95
*SUB PRICE: US$56.95 // AUD$80.70
Price:
US$19.95 // AUD$24.95
*SUB PRICE: US$18.95 // AUD$23.70
8000 Square Miles Of High-Resolution,

Aerial Photo-Scenery!
Come and explore the busy Dallas/Fort Worth skies....
both day and night, IFR and VFR, in a light plane, jet
or helicopter.... at a level of realism that will have you
pinching yourself for a reality check!
2 DVDs containing 8,000 square miles of high-resolution scenery

Full Color PRINTED VFR Termianl Area Chart for the DFW Area
Full Color PRINTED VFR Flyways Planning chart for the DFW Area
128 page manual and installation guide along with 100+ Instrument
Approach Charts and Airport Diagrams
Supplement chart manual with 95 SIDS and STARS
CODE:
MSX-DFW
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$49.95
*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$47.45
TOP SELLING ADD-ONS
The most popular flight simulator titles currently available...
Cessna Citation X
FS Global X 2008
No business jet gets you to your destination faster

than the Citation X. This amazing software brings
highly sophisticated Jet Set flavour into your
preferred simulator!
FS Global 2008 is a new product. It uses the NEWEST

SRTM data (released by NASA in late 2006). Resolution
in some parts has been improved to 19m.
This is 4 times better than FS Global 2005 and up
to 63 times better than FS itself!
The Business Jet Every Flight Simmer

Wants To Fly!
Hi-Resolution Terrain Mesh For The

Entire Earth On 6 DVD Discs!
Once onboard, whichever your piloting knowledge level is, you will be astonished
by its elegantly furnished cabin while comfortably flying at nearly supersonic
speed over the oceans. Jump back in the Pilot seat and you will be amazed by
all latest aeronautical technologies embedded in the cockpit. Some of these dont
even exist in the simulation world yet.
Special animations and features, combined with high quality graphics and
detailed systems simulation make this the business jet add-on of the year!
CODE:
WFCITX
A highly recommended product offering excellent value for money!
Price:
US$44.95 // AUD$69.95
*SUB PRICE: US$42.70 // AUD$66.45
DC-10 Collection
CODE:
FSGLOB2008
Price:
US$64.95 // AUD$89.95
*SUB PRICE: US$61.70 // AUD$85.45
Microsoft Flight
Simulator X:
Deluxe Edition
15 Model Variations With

38 Worldwide Liveries!
Featuring a massive 38 high-quality worldwide

liveries spread over 15 model variations, the DC-10
is the latest release in Just Flights F-Lite range. This
package has been designed by the experts at CLS
(Commercial Level Simulations) to be both very high in
quality and yet easy to operate. Giving you the highest quality of model
design and textures, animations and flight model characteristics at an affordable
price, this has to be a great deal!
Also included as a bonus in this package is the USAF KC-10A Extender and
Royal Dutch Air Force KDC-10A air-to-air refuelling tankers with animated fuel
drogues and boom! The manual includes a tutorial to ensure that your flights
go smoothly.
CODE:
JFDC10
FS Global 2008 comes in two versions in one box. One version is for FS 2004 and
one for FSX. The new scenery concepts in FSX provide a more detailed and realistic
far-distance view, textures adapt better to the mesh, the FSX default scenery is
more precise and causes less (optical) conflicts. This results in some of the best
looking mountain detail ever seen in the simulator!
Price:
US$42.95 // AUD$64.95
*SUB PRICE: US$40.80 // AUD$61.70
Latest Generation Flight Simulator

With Added Deluxe Edition Bonuses!
Flight Simulator X is the culmination of nearly 25
years of the landmark Flight Simulator franchise and the most significant
addition to date. Flight Simulator X presents players with a wide array of new
aircraft to fly in a beautifully rich and believable world which contains greater
detail than past entries in the franchise. Players will be able to experience what it
is like to be a pilot and have real distractions, to shade their eyes from the glare
of reflective paint and the glint from glass and chrome. Players will enjoy the
opportunity to fly their dream aircraft, from classic seaplanes like the de Havilland
Beaver and Grumman Goose to the Cessna 172 there is a plane for every terrain
and every player.
CODE:
FSXDLX
Price:
US$69.95 // AUD$114.95
*SUB PRICE: US$66.45 // AUD$109.20
BOOKS
&
LEARNING
Knowledge building plublications to make you a better pilot!
Computer Pilot CD-ROM
Reference Collection
- Volume 10 - 2006
Microsoft Flight
Simulator X For Pilots:
Real World Training
Build a searchable collection of flight simulator reference material

with our Computer Pilot 2006 CD-ROM.
Aspiring pilots will learn the skills of flight, how to master Flight Simulator,
and how to utilize the software as a learning tool towards their pilots licenses.
Those who already have their real-world wings will benefit from guidance on
how Flight Simulator X can be used as a continuing learning tool, how to simulate
real-world emergencies, and how to use it for training towards
advanced certifications.
Entire Collection Of Computer Pilot

Issues For Year 2006 On CD-ROM!
Master The Skills Of Flight With This

Real World Training Guide
You get all 12 issues of Computer Pilot that were published in 2006 in PDF format
on CD-ROM for viewing and reading on your computer.
Each of the 12 entire 84 page issues are recreated just as they look in print!
Best yet, you save a bundle load on the regular print issue price! You can have
all 12 issues on CD for a fraction of the regular print price!
Plus, use the search features of your PDF reader to find information fast!
CODE:
CPV10DISK
Price:
US$17.88 // AUD$24.99
*SUB PRICE: US$16.99 // AUD$23.75
Flying the Airbus A300

Series Flight Simulators
CODE:
BKFSXRWT
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$44.95
*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$42.70
Tips, Tricks & Trips For

Microsoft Flight
Simulator X
Mike Rays Newest Book Covering The

Airbus A300 Aircraft Series!
Have Even More Fun With FSX
Following on from the tremendous success of his Boeing

700 series of flight simulator manuals, Captain Mike Ray
has done it again - this time for the ultra modern Airbus
A300 series of airliners and again, specifically for Flight Simulator Pilots of both
Flight Simulator X and Flight Simulator 2004.
Now learn every single aspect of what you want and need to know about flying
Airbus aircraft, particularly such highly detailed add ons such as Wilcos Airbus
Series Volume 1. This is the definitive Airbus manual for Flight Simulator pilots
and again brought to you in the unique and entertaining style that entices you to
actively learn and absorb all aspects of flying these modern Fly-By-Wire aircraft.
Its applicable to all aircraft in the A300 series.
CODE:
BKA300
This Massive Book weighs in at 725 pages and is packed with detailed
information on using Flight Simulator X for training. It is truly a massive resource
for anyone serious about using simulators to further their piloting skills!
Price:
US$49.95 // AUD$64.95
*SUB PRICE: US$47.45 // AUD$61.70
Adam Howe and Scott Slaughter, two flight sim experts who also have many
years of writing experience, are putting their thoughts to pen for their new book
- Tips, Tricks & Trips for Flight Simulator X.
This is not a users manual for Flight Simlulator X. Instead, its a collection of
right to the point articles that will help you run FSX faster, better, easier. In
short, youll have more fun!.
Tips, Tricks & Trips presents topics that you wont find elsewhere. The aim of this
new book is to put the complexity to rest so that you can enjoy the Flight
Simulator experience rather than fight it. 240 pages.
CODE:
BKTTT
Price:
US$26.95 // AUD$39.95
*SUB PRICE: US$25.60 // AUD$37.95
NEW AVIATION DVDs!
Quality aviation DVDs that Take You There!
Just Planes DVD:

Oasis B747-400
Just Planes DVD:

Gemini DC-10 Cargo
In the cockpit of the B747-400 you will fly the airlines

maiden route from Hong Kong to London and back.
After a company presentation by the CEO, Flight Ops
and Ground Ops Managers youll descend from the mountain to CLK Airport in the
cable car for some amazing views of the Airport. We then meet the crew who brief
us on the flight are ready for takeoff in the cockpit of the 747-400.
The airline was founded in 1995 and now operates

a fleet of DC10s and MD11s for customers all over
the globe.
Both Captains give a very extensive presentation of the aircraft, the route, the
operation and many other details pertaining to the airline and last, but certainly
not least, we take to the sky for the first ever air to air footage of a 747 over the
English coast!
The pilots go over their DC10 in detail from the walkaround on the ground to the
cockpit pilot and flight engineer presentations, flight plan loading, fuel system
and much more. They also brief the departures and arrivals so you can follow the
takeoffs and arrivals/approaches.
Running Time: 200 minutes
Hong Kong Airlines
CODE:
DVDOASIS
Benghazi - Nairobi - Lagos - Ostend
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$44.95
*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$42.70
Just Planes DVD:

Alaska Airlines
This program follows an aircraft on a rotation from Belgium to 3 African

countries with stops in Nigeria, Kenya and Libya.
CODE:
DVDGEMINI
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$44.95
*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$42.70
Just Planes DVD:

Houston Airports
A Tribute To The 737-200
44 Airlines - 221 Aircraft

87 Landings - 49 Takeoffs!
Climb on board in the cockpit for a series of flights

from Anchorage to Bethel, Dillingham, King Salmon,
the remove island of Adak and a special charter to
Red Dog Mine.
You will follow the pilots at work as they prepare and operate the aircraft. They
give you continuous briefings about the flights, their duties and some very
interesting stories theyve experienced!
The 1st half hour of

this dvd shows the
traffic that
visits Hobby Airport
with mainly low cost
airlines AirTran, ATA,
Jetblue and Southwest.
A bonus DVD The Spirit of the 737-200 is included in this package at no

additional charge!
The next hour and a half is spent at Intercontinental, hub to Continental,

with a variety of nearly 40 airlines.
CODE:
DVDALASKA
Price:
US$29.95 // AUD$44.95
*SUB PRICE: US$28.45 // AUD$42.70
CODE:
DVDHOUSTON
Price:
US$24.95 // AUD$39.95
*SUB PRICE: US$23.70 // AUD$37.95
UTILITIES & PERIPHERALS
Get the most from the sim experience with these quality products
CH Products Flight
Sim Yoke USB
CH Products Pro
Pedals USB
Our Best-Selling Flight

Controller!
The CH Flight Sim Yoke USB gives you a

flight yoke thats as close as you can get
to the real thing without spending the
many hundreds of dollars that you would
on high end yokes. Now you can control your aircraft like a real pilot would with
left hand on the yoke and right hand controlling your throttle, prop and mixture
and managing the rest of your cockpit.
20 function buttons on your yoke support such functions as electric trim,
views, gear, flaps and more!
Fully compatible with Flight Simulator X, 2004, X-Plane and other sims
CODE:
CHFSYOKEUSB
Price:
US$129.95 // AUD$259.95
*SUB PRICE: US$123.45 // AUD$246.95
CH Combat Stick USB
Compatible with Windows 98, ME, 2000 & XP for PC (requires Direct X7.0a
or above) and MacOS 8.6 with Input Sprockets 1.7x for Mac
3 axes and 18 buttons (six push buttons, one 4 way hat switch, and one 8
way point of view hat)
Dual rotary trim controls allow for adjustment of ailerons and elevators
Quality components and construction with easy USB installation
Two year limited warranty.
CODE:
CHF16CS568USB
CODE:
CHPROPEDUSB
Price:
US$129.95 // AUD$239.95
*SUB PRICE: US$123.45 // AUD$227.95
The Ultimate Head Tracking

Accessory For Flight Simulation
And Gaming, Allowing You To
Realistically Pan Your View With
Head Movements!
Whether youre a novice or an advanced desktop pilot,

the F-16 CombatStick, featuring an authentic
F-16 Falcon jet stick grip, gives you the ability to
control your aircraft with precision and shoot your enemy
out of the sky, before he even gets a chance to react!
Your ailerons are only half of the picture.

Complete your authentic flight control
set-up with CH Pro Pedals USB, the
ultimate choice in realistic rudder pedals! CH ProPedals give you realistic fully
articulating (back/forth) rudder motion and also pivot on the toes for differential
toe brakes (just like a real aircraft) where supported by the simulator and
hardware interface*. CH ProPedals USB also feature smooth gliding motion for
precision rudder control input. With your feet sitting on a set of CH Pro Pedals
youll be able to master crosswind landings, make properly balanced turns and
control your aircraft during taxiing, the way it is done in real life
TrackIR 4
Professional
An Advanced F-16 Style Joystick for

Flight and Combat Simulation
Complete Your Flight Control

Setup And Master Those
Crosswind Landings!
Price:
US$89.95 // AUD$189.95
*SUB PRICE: US$85.45 // AUD$180.45
Imagine controlling your field of view in flight simulators, first person shooters,
racing sims and many other types of games by simply looking around!
The trackIR uses infrared light to track your head movements in much the same
way as ultra-expensive targeting systems used by the military. As you move your
head, the trackIR sends a real-time stream of instructions to your computer via
USB to move the mouse pointer or pan your view in game play. Compatible with
many sims and games including Microsoft Flight Simulator, Lock On etc.
CODE:
TRKIR4PRO
Price:
US$179.95 // AUD$254.95
*SUB PRICE: US$170.95 // AUD$242.20
PC AVIATORSInstant
DOWNLOAD
STORE
access to quality flight sim downloads!
Welcome to...
PC Aviators Download Store!
Glasair III
Fly The GlassAir III with Microsoft

Flight Simulator X and 2004
Buy... Download... Fly!
Modeled in 3D Studio max 7, the level of detail achieved

for the external model and virtual cockpit is outstanding.
The interior model also features new virtual head latency
to really put you in the pilots seat!
Our download store is now open

and was established to provide
you with the option to download
a number of software titles and
electronic products. Products are
available by instant download
upon successful completion of your
credit card, debit card or Paypal
payment.
Plus, we offer an exclusive CD-backup service, so if the product download you
want is not available in a boxed version, we will put it on a CD for you (at a small
additional charge) to save you the download!
It can be flown completely from Virtual Cockpit or 2D panel, day or night, and
the virtual cockpit features new smooth gauge technology , gauges so smooth
that youll wonder why every aircraft isnt developed in this way. Also included in
this package is Australian Simulations renowned Aircraft Control Panel software,
which allows you to customize your aircraft right down to the gender of your pilot
and passenger and more!
This download gives you 2 separate versions in the one download.
One for FSX and one for FS2004. So you get double the value for your money
SKU:
DL-GLSAIR3X
WWW.PCAVIATOR.COM/DLSTORE
X-15-2/3
Cleveland Hopkins
International (KCLE)
Fly Mach 4.65 At 350,000 Feet in The X-15!
Cleveland Hopkins International For

FSX In True To Life Detail
The excitement of high-speed flight at the edge of space with

the legendary X-15 rocket plane, now available for Microsoft
Flight Simulator.
X-15-2/3 for Flight Simulator Key Features:
Custom X-15 flight model to simulate rocket-powered high-speed and
high-altitude flight in FS2004 and FSX
Good maneuvrability at supersonic speeds and excellent gliding capabilities
Highly detailed 3D models with more than 300 parts, 60 animations,
reflective textures and unique markings, based on archive material
Fully functional instrument panels with 200 custom gauges and systems to
simulate almost every step and procedure required in a typical X-15 mission
Spectacular visual effects including rocket engine flames, APU exhaust etc.
Includes a comprehensive 100-page user manual inspired from the original
X-15 utility flight manuals, in a printable PDF format!
SKU:
DL-X152/3
Price:
US$34.99
FILESIZE:
89Mb
Price:
US$24.95
FILESIZE:
86Mb
BluePrint Simulations KCLE scenery depicts the Cleveland-Hopkins International

Airport as it exists today, and it is the first release within our Reality Now series.
It is compatible with Flight Simulator X.
Custom-made, optimized Gmax models of the terminals, GA, and other

service buildings within the airport grounds
Custom-made, optimized textures for all Gmax generated buildings,
including reflective textures in the FSX version
Custom-made, photo real ground textures in and around the airport
Accurate runway and taxiway layout, including detailed markings, signals,
and navigational aids
Custom-made AI mapping file (AFCAD)
SKU:
DL-BPKCLEX
Price:
US$13.50
FILESIZE:
120Mb
PC AVIATORSInstant
DOWNLOAD
STORE
access to quality flight sim downloads!
Beech V35 Bonanza
- V-Tail
F-15 Eagle
Fly The F-15 Eagle
(Available In Both FSX and FS2004 Versions)
Your Own Beechcraft V35 V-Tail

Bonanza To Fly In FSX And 2004
The aircraft in this product is a true-to-life replica of the model V35 C-Tail
Bonanza. A throaty and lay-you-back-in-your-seat 285 Horsepower Continental
engine with a 170 knot cruise speed and an 18,000 service ceiling gives you a
high performance tourer to cruise the flight simulator skies.
This product recreates all aspects of the real world Bonanza V35 for you to fly in
FSX and 2004 all the way from minute 2D and 3D cockpit detail, to external
surfaces, to authentic engine sounds through to exact flight modeling.
The Bonanza is a favorite in the real world and also a favorite in the Flight
Simulator world. Heres your chance to add the Bonanza to your Microsoft
Flight Simulator aircraft hangar for a lot less than the $400,000 price tag!
SKU:
DL-CARV35
This is a super gamepack for FSX that comes

with a high amount of scenery, AI traffic,
various aircraft, cars, and a Mission pack.
This is the story of the courageous effort of the bold souls of the secret circle to
free Germany of the mad tyrant, hitler, and bring peace back to the world. This is
Operation Valkyrie.
SKU:
DL-OPVX
Price:
US$32.95
FILESIZE:
245Mb
Iris has also once again had the privilege to employ the sound genius of
Christoffer Petersen who has provided us with some excellent sounds for the
F-15 recorded from the real deal which were sure will have you playing with
that volume control!
Price:
US$29.95
FILESIZE:
79Mb
Home Built Flight Sim

Plans eBook
The Mission To Save Germany
Two complete high detail aircraft Bu-181 Bestmann, Me-323 Gigant

One complete high detail glider Grunnan Baby Glider
One type VII-E Kriegsmarine U-Boat
8 High detail vintage Luftwaffe airbases
1 mountain side glider port
1 U-Boat Mediterranean supply base
A Panzer Tank division
And a huge set of missions that bring you into Operation Valkyrie!
Iris has provided a large amount of custom animations both inside and outside the
aircraft, with the variable position intakes moving according to the aircrafts angle
of attack to ensure optimum airflow into the engines. The variable doors inside
the intakes are also automated to adjust the speed of airflow into the engines for
supersonic flight.
SKU:
DL-F15X
Price:
US$17.00
FILESIZE:
12Mb
Operation Valkyrie
The F-15 Virtual Cockpit is FULLY textured,

every switch, panel and rivet has been
artistically rendered to provide a thoroughly immersive experience.
Build Your Own Home Flight Sim Cockpit

With This Complete eBook, Plans & Drawings
That Show You How!
Take your home flight sim set-up all the way. This JRH Flight Sims eBook
describes the techniques and methods used to design and build your own home
built flight simulator. The eBook contains 58 pages of how the JRH Flight Sim
was built including in progress build photos, wiring diagrams and figures. Also
included are 10 dimensional drawings of the frames and panels.
The book includes: Simple to follow instructions, Photographs, Wiring schematics,
Dimensional drawings, Building techniques, MS Flight Simulator Setup, Graphics
Cards Setup information and more!
A great resource for the new home built flight deck enthusiast!
SKU:
DL-HBFS
Price:
US$29.95
FILESIZE:
8Mb
From the EDITOR

By taking a look at various flight sim forums around the net, I have discovered a slowly increasing trend in
simmers questioning (or complaining) about the price of some add-on software packages. Indeed there
are numerous add-ons for Microsoft Flight Simulator out now that cost as much as, or even more than
the original sim software package! Are we paying too much for our sim add-on software?
If you look at it in the sense of how much time goes into some of these complex add-ons, and the fact
that all of them will never sell anywhere near as many copies as the Flight Simulator software itself, then
the price does seem to be reasonable. The cost of obtaining some data used in the add-ons too is often
hidden to the consumer. For example, there might be an initial large cost to purchase high resolution
satellite or aerial photographic data to produce photorealistic scenery titles, and this data is definitely not
cheap. Then factor in the developers time (many who work on these add-ons full-time), outsourcing of
some project work, plus a myriad of other hidden costs and time consuming work and the price suddenly
seems very reasonable! Of course, this does not mean you should be paying top dollar for sub-standard
work. And indeed the evolution of flight simulation, and the sim technology we now enjoy has come
about due to some tough competition between rival add-on developers, so rewarding those that produce
the higher quality evolutionary or revolutionary titles, or even just titles that simply work is a good
investment of your hard earned money. When you think about it, for the cost of one hour of real world
airplane rental, you get a whole virtual world with aircraft that would otherwise cost not millions, but
billions! For another hours worth you can have terrain mesh (mountain) improvements added to your
virtual world to improve the visual realism, and for another hour, you can add not one, but in some cases,
two high quality aircraft add-ons that even impress real world pilots.
So why are we complaining about the price of sim add-ons? In some cases, sure the price may seem high
for low quality work, but as a consumer, you have the power and the choice to choose not to purchase it.
You can protest by keeping your wallet closed or purse strings drawn tight! But without supporting our
good sim developers, we are inevitably slowing the progress of the hobby we all love to indulge in...
Enjoy the September issue of Computer Pilot magazine. And as always, your comments are valued.
Shoot me an email at editor@computerpilot.com
Publisher: Robert Ferraro

Editor: Dean Bielanowski
Layout & Design: Tony Liatos
Contributors In This Issue: Dean Bielanowski,

Tom Kurtz, Harold Zimmer, Roger Curtiss, Gene Davis,
David Smith, Doug Horton, Bill Stack, Chuck Bodeen,
David Wilson-Okamura, Gwyn Perrett, John Achor,
Mike Ray, Al Pelletier.
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USA: Mark Jakubowski
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to The Editor at editor@computerpilot.com or to the office
closest to you listed at the bottom of this page.
Dean Bielanowski
Editor
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8/14/2007 7:36:20 PM
C
6. NEWS AND NEW RELEASES
All the latest news and new releases since our last issue.
REVIEWS
10. Abacus EZ-GPS

24. Just Flights Tiger Moth
48. Microsoft Flight Simulator X For Pilots
66. Sim Cockpit Systems
14. USING TOWER VIEW IN FLIGHT SIM TO PRACTICE

FLYING MODEL HELICOPTERS
In a recent article I explored the possibility of learning to fly model aircraft
by using Tower View in Flight Sim. This time I wanted to tackle an even more
difficult challenge using helicopters instead.
31. CAYMAN ISLAND HONEYMOON
56. WINNING IN THE AIR

HOW TO GAIN THE ADVANTAGE
This is the first of two combat articles where John Achor discusses the
fundamentals of aerial combat in flight simulators to help you gain the
advantage over computer or human players!
59. FLYING GREEN WITH FARMBOYZIM
Flying Green with Farmboyzim is something new, offering a bit of an insight

into regions around the globe that you may not have visited yet within MSFS.
If you have visited these areas already, maybe youll see something that you
missed.
70. COLD & DARK A FLIGHT SIMMERS DILEMMA
Whats a simmer to do. You finally, through extreme hassle, sweat, and headache finally get your simulator up and running on your monitor, but what
do you do next? How do you get something appearing on that new airliner
screen displays? Mike Ray shows you how to get out of the Cold & Dark
dungeon!
76. ROUND ROBIN ADVENTURES BACK TO BASICS
First Officer John Scotty Walker of Tradewind Caribbean Airlines couldnt

wait to get into the air-conditioned comfort of the 737-800WL cockpit. It was
an exceptionally hot day at Curacaos Willemstad Hato International Airport. As
he brushed past Janice Adler, the Senior Flight Attendant, she called after him,
Whats the rush Scotty?
36. PIZZAZZ FOR FSX
If youre bored with watching aircraft taxi, take off, fly, land and even crash,
relief is available. Files available on the Internet for free downloading can
enhance your enjoyment of Flight Simulator X far beyond the runway end
identifier lights.
My purpose for writing this article was to take a trip back in time and revisit the original Airports, VORs and NDBs from BAOs (Bruce Artwick) Flight
Sim and Microsoft Flight Simulator 3. It is my aim to take those of you,
who started in this hobby in the last 10 years, back to an original flight sim
experience. As for the old timers it will be a trip back in time.
42. X-PLORING MARS WITH X-PLANE
PLUS OUR REGULAR COLUMNS:
Flying on Mars is not quite like flying on Earth. There are numerous factors that
must be taken into consideration, all of which will help you stay airborne in the
hostile environment. In fact, flying on Mars is like flying on an Alien planet, yet
there are no aliens found to date on the red planet!
52. CREATING A GLASS COCKPIT DISPLAY FOR THE

HOMEBUILT SIMULATOR WITH PMDG SOFTWARE
The building of a cockpit simulator is by no means an easy task. It consumes

an enormous amount of time, patience and money to create that sacred space
where no wives dare to venture! Time seems irrelevant when you are happily
head down making the next part at the work bench avoiding real issues in the
overgrown garden.
cpm1109.indd 5
20. HORTONS HINTS FOR FSX

Get the best out of Flight Simulator X
28. FREEWARE FRENZY

Cool downloads at a great price!
38. PULL OUT POSTER

At the Gate
82. INBOX
Your letters to us.
8/14/2007 7:36:29 PM
NEWS & NEW FLIGHT SIM RELEASES
Free Airport Builder for Flight Simulator X

NOT HAPPY with your own home airport?
Want to make it better? Or perhaps you just
want to create your own fantasy airport on a
deserted island? Well, now you can do it, and
whats better, the software you can use to do
it FSX Planner - is absolutely free!
FSX Planner is a graphical editing tool
designed to help users edit existing airports
or create new ones for use within Microsofts
Flight Simulator X.
Main Design Display - The main display of
FSX Planner shows a top down view of the
airport. You can work on multiple airports
simultaneously, each one having its own
window. The display shows all aspects of the
airport and is completely customizable.
Toolbars - All of FSX Planners editing
features are intended to be accessible via a
toolbar containing the various tools needed
to construct or edit the airport. These range
from selection tools, to specific runway or
apron or taxiway tools.
Objects Properties - Changes made to an

object via one of these displays will instantly
be reflected in the main display of the airport,
removing the need to constantly open and
close displays or click OK or Apply buttons.
Error Checking - FSX Planner includes
various unique error checking tools. These
are intended to help you find potential
problems with the airport, such as jetways
that do not have associated gates, or
taxiways that are associated with nonexistent runways.
Wizards - There are several wizards
included with FSX Planner to help you
through the creation process of some of the
more difficult aspects of airport design, such
as Taxiway Signs. These wizards provide a
unique approach to simplify the creation or
modification of an airport.
If you like the sound of this, then head on
over to the FSX Planner website where you
can download the software and get started
designing your own airport scenery. http://
www.zbluesoftware.com/fsxplanner/ is the
place to go!
New Just Planes DVD Titles

JUST PLANES, producers of in-flight
jumpseat style DVD movies have just
released several new titles, adding to the
hundreds of flight deck DVDs already in
the range.
Alaska Airlines 737-200 - During more
than 4 hours you will discover what the
Boeing 737-200 has done for travel in
the state of Alaska as you climb on board
in the cockpit for a series of flights from
Anchorage to Bethel, Dillingham, King
Salmon, the remote island of Adak and a
special charter to Red Dog Mine.
You will follow the pilots at work as they
prepare and operate the aircraft. They give
you continuous briefings about the flights,
their duties and some very interesting
stories theyve experienced in addition to
the regular cockpit presentation, aircraft
walkaround etc....
A bonus DVD The Spirit of the 737-200
is included in this package at no additional
charge! This documentary focuses on the
people who have made Alaska Airlines and
cpm1109.indd 6
the 737-200 a success. You will meet and

hear about their work ending with the final
farewell flight of the Dash 200 with a scenic
tour over Mt McKinley.
Oasis: Hong Kong Airlines B747-400
- In the cockpit of the B747-400 you will
fly the airlines maiden route from Hong
Kong to London and back. After a company
presentation by the CEO, Flight Ops and
Ground Ops Managers youll descend from
the mountain to CLK Airport in the cable car
for some amazing views of the Airport. We
then meet the crew who brief us on the flight
and are ready for takeoff in the cockpit of the
747-400. Both Captains give a very extensive
presentation of the aircraft, the route, the
operation and many other details pertaining
to the airline and last, but certainly not least,
we take to the sky for the first ever air to air
footage of a 747 over the English coast!
Both titles retail for US$30 and are available
from www.justplanes.com or from good
Flight Simulator retailers.
8/14/2007 7:36:45 PM
CH Products Release Windows Vista Drivers

THE LONG AWAITED Vista drivers for
CH Products line of controllers are now
available! In a recent press release CH
products stated the immediate availability
of the new drivers, incorporating the latest
Control Manager software;
CH Products announces today the latest
software release, Control Manager v4.30 for
Windows Vista 32 and 64 bit O/S. Control
Manager Version 4.30 is compatible with all
CH Products Retail Gaming peripherals and
Windows Vista. The file will automatically
install both 32 and 64 bit versions of Vista
This updated software is not intended for
any operating systems other than Vista.
The current version of Control Manager for
Windows 2K and XP is V4.20.
Flight Simulation enthusiasts, including

the Flight Sim Yoke USB one of the most
cost effective yoke controls available on
the market; Pro Pedals USB inexpensive
rudder controls with realistic slide action; a
wide range of joysticks to suit demanding
fighter pilots needs; and new Multi-Function
Panels that are highly customizable and
programmable to adapt to a wide range of
simulators and pilot requirements.
Many simmers have been delaying the
purchase of the CH product line while
waiting for Vista drivers to be released. The
wait is now over
Grab them from
www.chproducts.com
CH Products produce some of the most

popular flight controllers on the market for
Flight 1 Offers Airport Facilitator X

IF YOU PREFER the payware type design
programs that are ready to roll right out of
the box (or download in this case), or you
need a designer for both FS2004 and FSX,
then Flight 1s Airport Facilitator X might
be worth looking at.
AFX is a powerful airport editor for FS2004
and FSX for both novice and expert Flight
Simulator users. You can easily modify any
of the Flight Simulator airports, convert your
favorite AFCADs to FSX and enhace them
with FSX-specific features, or even design a
new airport from scratch.
AFX allows you to add, modify, or remove
runways, taxiways, and paths, taxiway
signs, aprons, start location, navaids,
cpm1109.indd 7
parking spots and many more airport

features.
For FSX airports, it can add fences, moving
jetways, vehicle links and parking spots. The
utility also gives you access to FSX-specific
runway markings and other attributes.
Some notable features include:
An easy-to-use WYSIWYG interface
No learning curve needed for users
familiar with AFCAD
Can import both stock and add-on FSX
and FS2004 airports in the BGL format
Connects to FS2004 and FSX using a
special AFX module (included)
Allows you to to see the airport you are
editing and all editing actions LIVE in

Flight Simulator. This allows very easy
positioning of airport elements relative
to buildings, terrain features and other
aspects of the scenery
Ability to create new airports
Conversion between FS2004 and FSX
airport formats in both directions
A Fault Finder will find many common
problems in the airport design
Can use imperial or metric units
Airport Facilitator X is available for

download/purchase from flight1.com and
retails for US$29.95. A boxed version is
expected to also be released soon.
8/14/2007 7:36:46 PM
Sneak Peek at Hughes H1 Racer

A TRIP to the Aerosoft Germany forums
will reveal a preview of a great looking
project coming soon from Aerosoft
the Hughes H1 Racer. Mathijs Kok from
Aerosoft had this information to offer;
The Hughes H1 was a rather amazing
aircraft, not only the last privately funded
aircraft holding a world air speed record, it
also featured many technologies that decades
later became standard. Flush rivets made
the aluminum fuselage very smooth, the
retractable gear reduced drag even further
and coupled to a Pratt & Whitney R-1535

twin-row 14-cylinder radial engine of 25.2
liters with a shaft output of over 1000 hp it
was an amazing aircraft for its day.
For flight simmers the superb detailing
of the model and its animations plus
the rather special systems are the most
attractive aspects of this new Aerosoft
product created by Stefan Hoffmann. The
engine management for example is totally
different from what you are used to in
modern aircraft. Of course we will include
some race missions and will allow you to

compare your results. Release is expected
this summer
The screenshots certainly look very
impressive, but note that images shown
here are from an alpha release, and they
already look very good! This title, when it
becomes available, will definitely be a must
have aircraft for anyone with an interest
in historic aviation. Keep an eye on the
forums at http://forum.aerosoft.com/ for
updated information.
Western Digital Offers Stylish Hard Drive Space

IS YOUR PC bogged down with tons of
files that are only sitting there for storage
reasons? Do you need somewhere to store
those excess sim software downloads? If the
answer is yes, you need a backup storage
system. Sure, DVDs and CDs can be used
for backup, but external hard drives are
so cheap these days that they make DVD
storage seem expensive, and even time
consuming and impractical for general hard
storage of files Western Digital offers a range
of new external hard drives under the My
Book name, because the drive caddies are
shaped like books! They use simple USB
connections for fast and easy backup of data.
Installation is a snap because you dont
really install this drive, you just plug it
in and its ready to use. On most editions,
there is no CD... the included software loads
from the drive the first time you plug it in.
Its so simple and integrated that the drive
even turns on and off with your computer.
This compact drive, iconic of a book,
takes up less space on your desk, stacks
horizontally and allows two or more drives
cpm1109.indd 8
to nestle neatly together like volumes on a

shelf. The front power button, surrounded
by light, shows your drives activity. The
circular blue LEDs on the inner ring,
tell you how full your drive is (except
Essential Edition.)
The drives are available in a range of
storage sizes from 250Gb, up to a massive
2Tb! Yes, Tb is Terrabytes, which is
1000Gb. Who wants 2000Gb of flight sim
backup? Well, we know some keen sim
downloaders who would!
Western Digitals new World Edition drives
also offer remote access features allowing
you to access data from the drive from
remote locations via the internet, and your
home computer does not even need to be
turned on.
If you are looking for some stylish and useful
hard drive space for backups, check out the
Western Digital My Book range at
www.westerndigital.com
8/14/2007 7:36:49 PM
cpm1109.indd 9
8/14/2007 7:36:50 PM
EZ-GPS Version 4
BY GENE DAVIS
t is really amazing what GPS technology has done

to our modern world. It has made navigating via
the air or roads so much simpler. Whether its a
GPS unit mounted on the dash of a motor home, a
handheld unit in a hikers pocket, or a unit mounted
in the cockpit of an airplane, we have become much
more dependent on this technology, and as we move
forward into the future, this same technology can be
implemented on our cell phones and even our very
own laptop computers. So, it is only reasonable that
one would want such technology available in FSX or
FS9, and with each release of Flight Simulator we see
some kind of GPS system. But, I have to tell you that
I welcome a simpler GPS, an EZ-GPS!
10
cpm1109.indd 10
Since the release of FS2002 we have been offered some kind of

GPS within our Flight Simulator worlds and with each additional sim
release this GPS unit has become more advanced and much easier to
understand, so I was a little leery when it came to looking at EZ-GPS,
published by Abacus, simply because I found the ones within MSFS
useable and found little need for a third party system. Well I was
wrong After using Abacuses EZ-GPS 4 I was pleasantly surprised
at its ease of use and implementation into an already complicated mix
of aviation equipment in the world that is Flight Simulator.
Installation and Documentation

Installation is relatively easy. Simply insert the disc and the product
is installed to a directory other than Flight Simulator. The next step
is to make a list of aircraft that you would like this GPS to appear in,
and running the configuration utility to place the said GPS to those
individual aircraft. Simple enough right? Well maybe not. I found
that I did end up having to refer to the attached documentation that
comes with the product after installing it. Make sure you are specific
about what version of Flight Simulator you are using. For this review
I used FSX and ended up having some problems getting EZ-GPS to
recognize my installation of FSX.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:36:52 PM
REVIEW
This all turned out to be a problem with my registry and where
it listed FSX was installed. A simple registry fix is required and all
should be okay afterwards. If you are not comfortable editing your
registry entries, there are some freeware files out there that can help!
EZ-GPS 4
With all of the features of the Garmin GPS in Flight Simulator
what does one need with another GPS in MSFS? Well the answer is
really quite simple. It is simple to use and offers some nice features
List of Features
1. Glass cockpit style displays, useable for any aircraft
2. An easy to read map display that shows roads, VORs,
intersections, airways and airports
3. Easily installs into just about any aircraft
4. Easy to use flight plan mode that allows the user to create a
flight plan on the go
5. Couples with just about any autopilot system
6. Includes a traffic display - TCAS
FOLLOWING HIGHWAY 395 THROUGH YOSEMITE
Picking Your Plane

Installing EZ-GPS 4 into an aircraft is simple as it just requires
running a setup program for the GPS system that lists what aircraft
are available. Simply pick which aircraft you want and it installs
the necessary command line in the aircraft configuration file of
your choice. Easy enough right? One would think so, but I did run
into some problems with some of the planes I chose.
My initial aircraft choice to try the EZ GPS was that of the
Aerosoft Diamond Katana, but I found that upon installing the
GPS into this plane, the exterior model of the plane vanishes.
The cockpit and everything is still there but there is nothing
except lights when you switch to the external view of the
aircraft. The only way I could correct this problem was to
uninstall the Katana and reinstall it; simply uninstalling the
GPS did not correct this issue.
I also found that EZ-GPS did not function in the Just
Flight Tiger Moth either. I wasnt even able to get it to
display in the cockpit mode. I would assume that this
probably has something to do with the copy protection that
Just Flight uses on their add-ons, or it was just a freak thing.
But, needless to say, I was not able to get it installed either
automatically or manually.
EASILY PLAN YOUR FLIGHT!
So, my next choice would be something a little simpler! I was

kind of starting to think strike 1 strike 2 but on strike 3 I hit
a home run! The next aircraft of choice was that of the Harvard
Texan from Alphasim. This time around the GPS installed
without a problem and I was up and flying in no time. The GPS
was ideal for this plane simply because it added some much
needed navigational features to an already well rounded product.
I also recommend using the GPS with helicopters. However,
you will find that on the helicopters the autopilot mode will not
work, but everything else functions fine! Flying choppers in
either Flight Simulator is rather challenging, but I have found that
I really like choppers in FSX and the only real problem I usually
have is trying to keep my eyes on the instruments, especially when
I am trying to land or hover, so EZ-GPS 4 gave me the ability to
have a stationary glass display that remains with the pilots POV,
allowing me to monitor altitude and speed.
FIND YOUR VORS AND NDBS
cpm1109.indd 11
11
8/14/2007 7:36:53 PM
USE IT FROM ANYWHERE IN THE PLANE
AIRPORT INFORMATION FOR PHOENIX SKY HARBOR
ON BOARD TCAS
12
cpm1109.indd 12
AIRPORT INFORMATION FOR OHARE
AVIONICS DISPLAY
AIRPORT DIAGRAM
PARKED AT CHICAGO OHARE
THE MENU
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:36:56 PM
REVIEW
EZ-GPS is a nice addition as it offers a simple and easy way to
create flight plans in an environment where, at times, it can be rather
difficult to get that information off the actual instruments; it was
really nice to have a unit that followed your line of sight rather than
disappearing when you looked left or right.
Lastly, I ended up trying the GPS in the newly released Citabria
for FSX from RealAir Simulations. Installation was a breeze and
everything seemed to work just fine.
Using EZ-GPS
With its slew of features there is quite a lot to cover. All navigation
around the GPS unit is done with your mouse cursor and the click
spots on the bottom of the unit. This is actually easier than it sounds
when compared to that of the default GPS. I found it very easy to find
things and really easy to find airports, in particular.
Most impressive, at least for me, was the map display, as it offers
a whole new environment for VFR flyers. Not only is all of the
traditional navigational information displayed but you will also find
that it includes all major freeways and highways, and this alone was
great when it came to flying around in places like GeoRenders new
Yosemite National Park Series as there is a whole lot of information
on the out of the way airfields in that region. Many are just little strips
of grass, but with the EZ-GPS I was able to locate them and get them
programmed into my planned flight.
Creating flight plans is also another feature that is considerably easier
with the EZ-GPS than the default GPS. You have the ability to create
different legs of the flight using Direct To, VORs and intersections
as well as utilizing your GPS Autopilot to link up to your plane and
actually fly the plane from the GPS on autopilot. This was really handy
when it came to aircraft that didnt have complex autopilots; the EZGPS just links up to the existing aircraft and flies it.
One of the first areas I used the GPS was that of the new Yosemite
National Park scenery from GeoRender. I was actually able to fly an
entire flight using the information provided by EZ-GPS via the roads
below. Selecting the airports is relatively easy as you do the search
via the nearest airport setting in the GPS itself. In the end I was able
to create an entire flight over the Yosemite area with little or no hassle
from the GPS. I didnt have to search for airport IDENT codes or
names as they were all readily available via the main display.
There is also a display that gives the user a glass cockpit style
representation of all of your critical flight information. This was a nice
feature as it really came in handy when flying helicopters as I was
able to watch things like speed and altitude when landing or hovering.
The display also shows all critical navigation information and shows
whether you are on course with your flight plan, or off course.
For aircraft that dont have a built in TCAS, the EZ-GPS offers a
totally functional TCAS system which is nice when flying things like
choppers. I know there are some pretty nice freeware systems out
there, but the TCAS with the EZ- GPS is a nice addition to an already
well rounded product.
Performance in FSX
Surprisingly the EZ-GPS doesnt affect the overall performance
within FSX. The unit works very well and molds together with
FSX nicely. The only problem I had was trying to keep up with the
plane and trying to program the GPS at the same time, and I had to
ultimately pause the sim and work on the GPS.
I was really impressed with the way the GPS upgrades its flight
information. There doesnt seem to be any lag time as the unit works
in real time with your existing flight.
EZ-GPS 4 in FS2004
EZ-GPS has been around for a long time. In fact, I think I once
owned an early version of this program, and if I remember correctly,
I was very fond of it. However, as time went on, the need for another
GPS system like this went out the window when the developers of
Flight Simulator included their very own version, and this is what
brings us to FS2004.
I have always used the default GPS with FS2004 and the only time
I strayed away from it was with products from Reality XP, or if the
aircraft utilized some sort of Flight Management System. So, when
I made the move to this unit within FSX I was quick to also give
it a try in FS9. It, of course, functions the same as the one in FSX,
but I found that, again, it was much easier to create flight plans and
navigate through the systems different modes. I quickly became a
believer with EZ-GPS 4, as it really is E-Z to use!
In The End
This product has to be a matter of choice. If you have issues with
the default GPS then this product is for you. As I spent time with EZ
GPS I grew very fond of it and prefer it now when I am looking up
airports or just need to see a specific area when I am flying in my
virtual skies. EZ-GPS Version 4 is published by Abacus, is compatible
with both FSX and FS2004 and retails for US$19.95 on CD. It is
available from all good flight sim retailers. 4
13
cpm1109.indd 13
8/14/2007 7:37:01 PM
Using Tower View in Flight Sim

to Practice Flying Model Helicopters
BY DR DAVID SMITH
n a recent article I explored the possibility

of learning to fly model aircraft by using
Tower View in Flight Sim. This time I wanted
to tackle an even more difficult challenge using
helicopters instead.
As a documentary film maker Ive always been intrigued by the
possibility of using a model helicopter to carry a small video camera
and get those really speccy aerials that seem almost impossible. These
days that possibility is a reality because there are some superb model
choppers that are large and powerful enough to carry a reasonable
payload, and there is a whole new breed of high definition video
cameras, some of which are quite tiny and lightweight.
14
cpm1109.indd 14
Flying helicopters is not an easy thing. Roger, a chopper pilot

friend of mine, said its a bit like riding a bike in three dimensions.
On the bike you fall off a lot until something in your brain clicks
and then suddenly youve got it and balancing becomes automatic.
When it comes to helicopters, that first bit, involving all that falling
off, doesnt translate too well. Even so, once you have the knack it
seems it becomes pretty much automatic.
Roger gave me the chance to take control of his Squirrel helicopter
using dual controls. Once he said the magic words your plane
I became very conscious of the enormous power in the Squirrels
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:03 PM
REVIEW
turbine, shrieking away just behind me. It was like a mad thing trying
to destroy us! Roger had warned me that I needed extremely fine
movements on the cyclic joystick, and I found this really difficult to
do. Were talking millimeter movements here and I didnt do very
well on my first flight. I managed some graceful turns and even
settled into level flight, but hovering absolutely terrified me and I
certainly didnt achieve anything like a sustained hover. Roger said
it took him about ten lessons before it clicked and then he never
looked back. My right arm felt almost bruised from tension because I
just couldnt possibly relax.
Why helicopters shouldnt fly

Most fixed wing aircraft are inherently stable. If you let go of the
controls in a properly trimmed Cessna, the aircraft will tend to fly
straight and level. If you let go of the controls in a helicopter, you will
die. Why is this?
The physics of generating lift in a rotorwing aircraft are
exceedingly complex. In still air on the ground, the rotor blades
of a helicopter such as a Jetranger experience symmetrical lift. As
the blade pitch is increased, by raising the collective lever, this lift
increases until it equals, then exceeds the weight of the aircraft.
When this happens the helicopter will accelerate vertically. In the
process, however, the rotor disc alters its shape, becoming a shallow
cone with the rotor tips upwards.
Even in this seemingly simple situation, there are great
complexities. The air around the helicopter may be still, but the rotors
themselves produce an induced downwards flow of air. As a result,
the lift in one rotor, which is at right angles to the relative airflow,
is now at an angle to the axis of rotation and contributes to what is
called rotor thrust. In the still air situation the rotor thrust of both
blades will be equal and perpendicular to the plane of the rotor disc.
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As soon as the helicopter begins to move forwards through the

air, a new suite of complexities is set in motion. Whole books have
been written on this subject, but the critical concept is that, in nonhovering flight, the rotor that is advancing into the airstream will
generate more lift than the other which is retreating. If the blades
are rotating counter-clockwise as seen from above, then in forward
flight the helicopter will always tend to roll to the left. This tendency
is counteracted by cyclical changes in rotor pitch such that the
advancing rotor will have minimal pitch when at about 90 degrees
and the retreating rotor will have maximum pitch at 270 degrees.
These changes must occur during every single rotation of the rotors.
Add to this complexity a whole host of other factors such as rotor
flapping, ground effect, air re-circulation, tail rotor drift and tip
vortices and it really is a wonder that any human being can keep a
helicopter in the air at all! And the cute bit is that all of this complex
physics applies equally to model helicopters. No wonder they are so
hard to fly!
Autorotation in Flight Sim
I fired up the Jetranger and listened as the turbine spooled up and

the rotors began to spin, thinking all the time about the complexity of
the physics involved in getting the little bird into the air. My control
yoke was the equivalent of the cyclic joystick, providing pitch and
roll control, the throttle was equivalent to the collective, controlling
lift, and the rudders pedals controlled the pitch of the tail rotor blades
and therefore yaw. Ill use the terms collective and cyclic here.
As I raised the collective the helicopter began to rise. I lowered
the collective and allowed the chopper to settle back, then repeated
this several times to get a feel for the sensitivity of the system. So
far no dramas.
When a helicopter is hovering close to the ground up to a height
equal to about two thirds of the diameter of the rotor disc, the rotor
downwash forms a cushion of relatively slow moving air beneath the
machine. This so-called ground effect makes it possible to maintain
the same angle of blade attack at a reduced power setting because of
the disturbance to induced airflow through the disc.
Before putting myself to the ultimate test, I decided to follow the

autorotation procedures set out in the FSX Learning Center. I climbed
to at least 500 feet AGL, then switched off the engine using the red
fuel valve switch at the lower right of the instrument panel. As soon
as the engine began to die, I smoothly lowered the collective to full
down. The first time I tried this I could feel the autorotation kick in
and the craft descended smoothly towards the ground. On several
other attempts, I left the collective reduction a few seconds too late
and the chopper simply pitched forwards and dived nose first into the
ground. This point was well worth remembering when I tried it from
the Tower View!
Actually choosing the right height and speed to commence the
autorotative flare was also tricky. Many times, while flying in the
cockpit, I flared too soon and the craft landed about ten feet above
the ground, then, with no possible way to generate lift, simply
dropped like a stone. My damage bill was now creeping into the
millions of dollars
With practice though, it was possible to achieve a reasonable, if
hard, autorotative landing. After so many crashes I must confess it
felt really great to actually end up safely on the ground. What I had
learned was that the FSX Jetranger will maintain a constant heading
during autorotation, so when flying in Tower View, I predicted that
I wouldnt have to worry too much about the rudders. I also learned
that, if I delayed the flare until the very first appearance of dust from
the rotor wash, the landing would be successful. I guess that meant I
was low enough to make good use of ground effect.
The challenge
Based on my experience with simulated model fixed wing aircraft,
I decided to set two challenges. The first seemingly simple one
would be to take off, fly a circuit, hover and land, all from the Tower
View and with no cockpit window visible.
The second challenge would be to attempt an autorotative landing
following an engine failure.
In FSX the helicopter models have been refined so that theyre
easier to fly which was encouraging. I chose a bright red Bell
Jetranger and set it up on the tarmac at Williams Point Cook,
historic home of the Royal Australian Air Force. I followed Doug
Hortons hint from Volume 11 Issue 5 and set up the Tower Panning
view mode.
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REVIEW
How is autorotation achieved?
Rotor drag is normally overcome by engine power so that the
rotating blades can generate lift. In the absence of engine power rotor
drag will rapidly slow the blades and lift will decrease unless rotor
rpm (Rrpm) can be maintained by some other means. The solution is
to lower the collective gently but completely and allow the craft to
descend quite rapidly. The resulting airflow over the blades will then
maintain Rrpm and therefore lift. When that happens, the helicopter is
in autorotation.
KICKING UP A STORM
This time as I lifted off, I carefully adjusted the collective to

maintain a hover close to the ground. I needed a little rudder to avoid
yawing and had to control the cyclic very finely but it did hover. Now
I pulled on more collective and edged the cyclic forwards, dropping
the nose and picking up airspeed. As always when flying from a tower
perspective, its quite difficult to be sure of your alignment with the
runway, which is a problem obviously shared by pilots of model
helicopters. I basically tried to use minimal rudder movements in
the hope Id end up flying in a straight line, which I pretty much did.
Next I banked left for what I hoped would be a 90 degree turn before
leveling out. Two more turns and I was on my base leg, ready to turn
onto final approach.
Believing I was now aligned with the runway I began my descent
by lowering the collective while maintaining about 30 knots IAS. As
I neared my landing point I began my flare and reduced collective
further, all the time ensuring that my rate of descent was very slow.
With my forward speed washed off effectively, the helicopter entered
the ground effect zone and settled neatly onto the H. I was pretty
pleased with this effort, which seemed somewhat easier than doing
the same circuit in the Extra.
As in all things helo related, the physics of what is actually happening

in autorotation is complex. The velocity of the rotor tip is high and so
induces the most drag. The velocity near the hub is low and produces
least drag. The inner section is therefore termed the Autorotative Section
and the area towards the tip the Rotor Drag Section.
Put simply, the Rotor Drag section towards the tip is trying to slow
the blade whereas the Autorotative Section near the base is trying
to accelerate it. These zones are not rigidly maintained but can shift
depending upon the blade angle of attack, the Rrpm and the airflow
resulting from the rate of descent. The balance between these two
opposing trends determines whether or not autorotation is successfully
achieved, i.e. whether you live or die.
Flaring prior to an autorotative landing is the absolute essential final
step and you only get one go at it. The flare causes the Autorotative
Section to move outboard along the blades, thereby raising Rrpm and
lift but only briefly. This slows the descent until the flare effect is
lost. Timing of the flare, and the height at which it is performed, is
therefore critical.
My attempts at autorotation
I printed out my Flight Analysis
Engine failure in a chopper will a Flight Sim

helicopter allow autorotation?
I have a copy of a helicopter flight instruction manual in which the
section on autorotation begins thus:
The establishment of fully-developed autorotation, following
an engine failure, will result in a loss of height. In the hover, or at
low forward speed, the loss of height necessary to establish full
autorotation will be considerable as it will be necessary to lower the
(collective) lever fully to restore rotor rpm.
The upshot of this is that pilots are warned that in the altitude
danger zone between about 10 and 400 feet AGL they should
hover for no longer than is absolutely necessary. They should also
keep flight within the two avoid areas to an absolute minimum.
One is the altitude danger zone, the other autorotation above
about 45 knots.
Having made some sense of the theory of autorotation, it was time to

put it to the test. Clearly I was not about to try the procedure in either
of the Avoid Zones, so I nipped up to 3,000 feet AGL and prepared
myself for some very non-intuitive procedures. Of course, imagining
this was a model helicopter being viewed from the ground, my model
had virtually disappeared. Maintaining orientation would be extremely
difficult, so I revised my plan and descended to 600 feet. This, I hoped
would be out of the Altitude Danger Zone, but low enough to give me a
reasonable view of the helicopter from the tower window.
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OK, here goes. Remember were in Tower View, so there are no

instruments visible at all. I did make use of Shift-Z to let me watch
both altitude and airspeed.
I switched off the turbine by pulling back the fuel flow lever on
my CH-Pro yoke and tried to imagine what it would be like in a real
chopper with nothing but the sound of rushing wind. Something I
hope I never experience in the real world!
The chopper rapidly began to lose altitude and I smoothly floored
the collective, hoping the helicopter wouldnt become unstable. The
first time I tried it thats exactly what happened; the chopper flew
straight at the ground with the rotors sticking out sideways like a pair
of useless wings.
I also realized that it was extremely difficult to be sure of the

helicopters orientation in space using a Tower View sufficiently wide
to see both the aircraft and the ground. I was tempted to use a second
window with a zoomed in Tower View but decided that would be
cheating helicopter modellers cant do that in the real world!
The next problem was flying too far from the airfield before
shutting down the engine. This meant Id be landing behind tress and
out of sight from the tower. So I had to try and arrange it such that the
chopper was heading back towards the airfield before shutting down.
So many things to think of!
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REVIEW
Conclusion
After many failed attempts I am proud to say that I finally got the
knack and achieved a near perfect autorotative landing. This was a
very challenging exercise but one that paid great rewards in terms of
learning much more about some of the less used features in Flight
Sim, plus I have to admit it a huge, smug sense of satisfaction
when I finally got that little model chopper safely back on the
ground after its simulated engine failure.
Want to spend a few hours trying something completely different?
Give chopper engine failures a go!
Dr David Smith is a scientist-turned-film maker who runs
imaginACTION pty ltd in Melbourne.
Diagrams redrawn from Helicopter Principles of Flight for CAA
Examinations - Cranford Publications, Ashgrove Queensland
Australia 1989. Diligent effort was made to contact Cranford
Publications without success. 4
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HORTONS HINTS for FLIGHTsimX
BY DOUG HORTON
Airport Master Records
eres another collection of hints for FSX,

gathered from various sources, including
my own trials and discoveries in flying the
program. In this issue, well focus on flying missions,
adding a camera view, plus a few miscellaneous hints.
Whatever your level of experience, I offer these hints
for your flight simming enjoyment. Take your pick
and give em a try!
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For those who design airports for Flight Simulator, a very useful
reference for all U.S. airports is the Federal Aviation Administration
Airport Master Record Form 5010-1 (public airports) or 5010-2
(private airports). The master records contain comprehensive data
on airports, runways, lighting configurations, and other information.
The master record is updated annually for those airports where
scheduled Part 121 (air carrier) or Part 135 (commuter and ondemand) operations are conducted. For other airports this data may
not be updated for 3 to 5 years. Access to these forms is provided by
GCR & Associates, Inc., at the following link: http://www.gcr1.com/
5010web, which includes a search form. After you locate a particular
airport, youll see several tabs that include information extracted from
the airports 5010 form. The accompanying image shows runway
information for a typical airport. To see the actual 5010 form for the
selected airport, click the small, light blue circular icon near the upper
right-hand corner of the web page. Its just above the boundary of the
Runway Information and Remarks tabs.
CPM. V11I09
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HORTONS HINTS FOR FSX

Amazon Trek - Transport supplies from an archaeological base
camp in the Peruvian lowlands to a remote village. This mission
includes several legs in the Grumman Goose, with both water and
airport runway landings. Theres a nice surprise involving scenery
animation and special effects, as well as some aircraft system
failures to overcome.
FAA FORM 5010 RUNWAY INFORMATION FOR CHICAGO AURORA

MUNICIPAL AIRPORT (KARR)
AMAZON TREK MISSION

APPROACHING SNAKE SCULPTURES AND ANCIENT TEMPLE
Flying FSX Missions

If youre not working through the 51 (deluxe version) missions,
youre missing one of the best new features of FSX. The new mission
development method replaces the previous adventure programming
language, and theres much greater capability for both developers and
users. I havent worked through all the missions yet, but my favorites
so far are:
Tokyo Executive Transport - Pick up passengers from a rooftop heliport in Shiodome, and take them to a waiting executive
jet at Tokyo Narita International Airport (plus more). The
adventure begins with a moderately difficult helicopter landing on
a skyscraper helipad, continues with a surprise option at Narita,
and if that option is selected, leads to a Learjet trip to a surprise
destination. After the initial helicopter landing, the surprises
demonstrate amazing mission contents!
TOKYO EXECUTIVE TRANSPORT MISSION

AFTER INITIAL LANDING TO PICK UP PASSENGERS
The FSX mission menu displays all missions and skill levels,
as well as a mission image and description. The missions menu is
classified in two ways: level of difficulty (Beginner, Intermediate,
Advanced, and Expert) and categories (Tutorials, Just for Fun, The
Good Life, Backcountry, Pilot for Hire, Emergency, Airline Pilot, and
Challenges). The selection menu defaults to the level of difficulty
display. After you complete each mission, a large green checkmark
appears in the related mission image.
One of the best features of the mission interface, often useful for
completing missions, is the capability to save flight files mid-mission.
I needed to use this feature for completing the Tokyo and Amazon
missions because I failed several times. As with saved free flight files,
the interface shows a thumbnail view of the state of the mission for
each saved flight.
MISSION USER INTERFACE SHOWING SAVED MISSIONS,

EACH WITH RELATED THUMBNAIL IMAGE
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Mission Navigation. To see helpful text appear on the screen during

missions, make sure you have Captions enabled, which are disabled by
default. In the Settings, General user interface, you can enable mission
captions by checking the Show captioning checkbox in the missions
section. At the same time, you can choose whether you wish to display
the mission compass and pointer. Pressing the U key cycles through
mission compass and pointer options, while pressing the K key moves
the pointer among multiple objectives in some missions.
(FSX)\Addon Scenery\
\(scenery filename)
\scenery\(scenery files)
\texture\(texture files)
You can alternatively place add-on *.bgl files into the existing
Addon Scenery\scenery folder and texture folders, which are active in
the scenery library by default, but youll have much better control if
you place each add-on scenery package in its own folder set.
Creating a New Camera View

The new camera system may be initially confusing for new users of
FSX, though its a great new feature for enhancing views of aircraft and
the flight environment. Weve learned before that views in both the menu
system and by pressing the S and A keys are specific to individual aircraft.
However, eleven default camera views are available for all aircraft, as
specified in the user version of the camera.cfg file, which is located in your
C:\Documents and Settings\(username)\Application Data\Microsoft\FSX\
folder. Note that this is the location for Windows XP, and the location is
slightly different for Windows Vista. Also, do not edit the version of the
camera.cfg file in your FSX root folder. Consider it to be the master file,
from which the default user camera.cfg file is initially built similar to
other master and user files, such as scenery.cfg.
PRESSING U CYCLES THROUGH MISSION COMPASS AND

POINTER DISPLAY OPTIONS
Some lessons also employ gates through which you need to fly,
as shown in the accompanying screenshot from the Introduction to
Soaring mission. As you fly through a gate, youll hear a whoosh
sound and the gate color will change from green to red.
This topic was suggested by Richard Ludowise, and heres an

example that will provide a landscape view with eyepoint 10 meters
below and 10 meters behind the data reference of all installed
aircraft. Why not use the W key in 2D cockpit view to serve the same
purpose? The answer for now is that if you look other than forward
with the W key method of removing the control panel and gauges
from the 2D view, youll see aircraft parts.
To add the example landscape view, locate the user version of your
cameras.cfg file in your C:\Documents and Settings\(username)\
Application Data\Microsoft\FSX\ folder. Next, make a backup copy
by selecting the file, pressing CTRL+C, then pressing Ctrl+V.
Now open your cameras.cfg file with a text editor, and add to the
end of the existing text, the following lines:
FLYING GLIDER THOUGH GATE,

WITH MISSION COMPASS DISPLAYED IN UPPER LEFT CORNER
Adding Scenery
Ive noticed that several add-on scenery authors in their readme
files suggest adding their scenery to the \FSX\Addon Scenery folder.
Thats the general idea, but we need to be somewhat more specific.
The issue is that some authors set up folders with the scenery *.bgl
files directly under the folder that names the scenery. So, you unzip
the scenery with the folder options on, and it doesnt work right when
you try to add such scenery to the scenery library. Recently, Ive seen
many AFCAD for FSX files that are set up this way. The problem,
of course, is that the *.bgl files must be in a \scenery folder thats
under the scenery filename folder. Heres the recommended structure.
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[CameraDefinition.012]
Title =Landscape
Guid = {127193D4-888C-452d-B7D7-F2D274AC820B}
Description = View forward and slightly downward from under aircraft
Origin = Center
SnapPbhAdjust = Swivel
SnapPbhReturn = FALSE
PanPbhAdjust = Swivel
PanPbhReturn = FALSE
Track = None
ShowAxis = FALSE
AllowZoom = TRUE
InitialZoom = 1.0
ShowWeather = Yes
InitialXyz = 0, -10, -10
InitialPbh = 11, 0, 0
XyzAdjust = TRUE
Category=Cockpit
ClipMode=Normal
This wont display any of the aircraft unless you pan upward. You
can select it from the FSX menu by clicking on Views, View Mode,
Cockpit, Landscape. From the keyboard, press the A key from a
cockpit view, or press the S and A keys, to change the view category
CPM. V11I09
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HORTONS HINTS FOR FSX
LANDSCAPE VIEW OVER CANADIAN ROCKIES FLYING SOUTHWARD
and view while watching the view caption in the upper right-hand
corner of your screen. Ive noticed that occasionally, with aircraft
maneuvering, this view looks rearward from the aircraft. If this
occurs, just press CTRL+Spacebar, and the view will reset to forward.
USER INTERFACE FOR GENERATING GUID IDENTIFIERS
If you own the FSX Deluxe version and youve installed (and
updated with SP1) the SDK files, all lines of code for camera
descriptions are explained in the FSX SDK\Core Utilities Kit\Camera
Configuration folder, in the document Camera Configuration.htm.
Note in the code the line that contains GUID= . GUIDs are
globally unique identifiers that are used in FSX and other programs
to identify Microsoft ActiveX classes, objects, and interfaces. A
free Microsoft GUID Generator component lets you generate these
identifiers, and it can be downloaded from http://go.microsoft.com/
fwlink/?linkid=21030.
The final tip for adding camera views is that camera definition
sections, similar to above, appear also in each aircrafts
aircraft.cfg file. Whats available while flying each installed aircraft
is the combination of camera definitions from its aircraft.cfg file
and your cameras.cfg file. So, as an alternative to adding the above
definition section to cameras.cfg for all aircraft, it could be added,
with applicable sequential numbering in the header, to the aircraft.cfg
file(s) of one or more selected aircraft. 4
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Tiger Moth Review
he de Havilland Tiger Moth is undeniably a

classic to any aficionado of European aircraft.
It is not so common an aircraft in the United
States but evokes the same emotions in those familiar
to it as does the Stearman to an American. Lets see if
Just Flights Tiger Moth add-on stirs up any similar
feelings
The de Havilland D.H.82 first flew in 1931 and 14 years later
approximately 8000 of them had been delivered and were in extensive
use as trainers for the air forces of various countries in Europe as well
as Canada. At the end of World War II many of these aircraft were
declared surplus and were purchased cheaply for private ownership
where they fulfilled a role with flying clubs that continues to this day.
And for good reason- the Tiger Moth is a basic, solid airplane that
accomplishes the mission of introducing new pilots to flight.
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BY ROGER CURTISS
To experience the Tiger Moth is to take a step back to simpler

times. The airplane sports very few amenities or accessories but
offers room for two people to sit in tandem and feel the wind in their
faces. The cockpit panel offers the bare necessities of instrumentation
and demands that the pilot be an integral part of gauging the aircraft
performance.
The Package
Just Flight, who have a reputation for offering quality aircraft
models, kept their eye on the ball for the Tiger Moth as well. This is
a first class product with compatibility for FS9 and FSX. I tested it in
FS9 and it is nearly flawless.
The product shipped with a DVD and 3 language Pilots Notes
documentation. Installation was a non-event; it loaded and was
available in the aircraft menu. That menu provides 4 model choices:
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:19 PM
LOW AND SLOW THIS IS HOW IT ALL STARTED
AUTHENTIC SHAPE AND STRUCTURE HAS BEEN ACHIEVED
A LOOK OUT THE BACK!
THE VC VIEW FROM THE REAR SEAT, FLYING SOLO
cpm1109.indd 25
HIGHLY DETAILED PANELS, AS SEEN FROM THE EXTERIOR
THE 2D PANEL, FROM THE REAR SEAT
INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS IN VIRTUAL COCKPIT MODE
STARTING AN UPWARD TURN
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NICE COLORS ON THIS MODEL VARIANT
EVEN THE ENGINE GETS DETAILED!
TAXIING OUT TO THE STRIP
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THE VC VIEW FROM THE FRONT SEAT
ALMOST PERFECT?
THIS MODEL HAS A NICE WOODEN PROP
MY COPILOT LOOKS A LITTLE SCARED?
GREAT SCENERY, GREAT PLANE!
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:30 PM
D.H. 82A Trainer in four color schemes

D.H. 82A Civilian in three schemes
D.H. 82C Canadian with a glass canopy
D.H. 82A basic RAF trainer equipped with a hood for rear
cockpit instrument training
The Pilots notes/manual is only about 22 pages (in each language)

but it is very well written and packed with useful information on the
installation and operation of the program.
Exterior
The attention to detail is to be respected. The cloth fuselage skin
is nicely represented as well as structural aspects such as the landing
gear and engine cowling. The cowling opens to reveal a rather
detailed engine with functioning throttle linkages and carburetor
butterfly valve. There is even a step cut into the right side of the
cowling so that refuelers will have a foothold to reach the fuel cap.
There are animated touches such as fold-down entryways to the
tandem cockpits and the aforementioned instrument hood.
REACHING THE CEILING LIMIT ENGINE SPUTTERING
Perhaps the most impressive and unquestionably the eeriest

animation is the rear cockpit passenger. The first time I saw this was
when I was panning in VC mode and saw this rather large head with
very lifelike eyes. The head was slowly turning from side to side and
up and down and is a mesmerizing touch.
YET ANOTHER VARIANT OVER SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Interior
This is a basic trainer and the interior complements are just that
basic. The flight instrumentation consists of a large rate-of-turn/side
slip indicator, airspeed indicator, altimeter, engine instrumentation
and not much else. This is a wind-in-your-face, seat-of-your-pants
airplane that keeps the pilot fully involved in its operation.
lose excess altitude in order to accomplish a landing. Pulling back

the engine power to idle and entering a sideslip easily brought the
airplane to the proper angle for landing. And landings are relatively
easy as well. The solid and well sprung landing gear is very forgiving
so even novice pilots look good bringing this bird in.
Flying Characteristics
Perhaps the trickiest characteristic presents itself not in flying but

on the ground. The Tiger Moth is a classic tail dragger and most
versions were fitted with a skid in lieu of a tail wheel. Usually this
can be compensated for by use of wheel brakes to steer, however, the
Tiger Moth has no wheel brakes! So taxiing requires slow speeds and
even more importantly, plenty of advance planning by the pilot to
modulate engine power and make rudder turns to control taxi speed
and directional control. It sounds worse than it is- as long as engine
power is kept relatively low the airplane goes where it is pointed and
stops where anticipated.
The Tiger Moth will never be considered to be a speed demon

which is a benefit for a pilot trainee as, generally, nothing happens
too quickly, so the pilot should not have much trouble staying ahead
of the airplane. It is also a very forgiving ride- the stall speed varies
between 30-35 kts and the roll rate is rather slow. There are few
surprises which are the qualities that make for an excellent trainer.
The documentation states that most of the flying was controlled from
the rear cockpit but I found that the forward cockpit provided a better
front view for landing. It also had the advantage of structural elements
for the bi-plane wings being in front of the line of sight. The cross brace
wires in front of the pilot are connected by two doughnuts. I found
that placing the upper doughnut on the horizon resulted in level flight.
This reduced the need to check the altimeter for indicators of vertical
movement. Similarly, pointing the doughnut at my landing aim point
was a handy way to orchestrate a smooth arrival.
Full aerobatics are authorized in this aircraft but I found that
engaging in such activity prudently necessitates that the airplane be
at least 4000 AGL. This was because a few of the maneuvers (loop,
slow roll and Immelmann turn) require airspeed between 95 and 118
knots and I was unable to attain such speeds unless I commenced
a dive first. Once I was able to coax the airplane into the maneuver
the response was rather slow; thus eating up quite a bit of vertical
airspace before completion.
But I also found the Tiger Moth to be a delight on approaches and
landings. Because of its relatively slow speed and 30 knot stall speed
there are few instances where there might not be sufficient time to
Bonus
One of the stellar qualities of this product is the sound package.
There are no warning bells or alarms but the engine sounds are superb
and conjure up images of the barnstorming experience and the thrill
of open cockpit flight.
As alluded to earlier, the pilots manual expresses considerable
respect for and obvious admiration of the aircraft. There is a small
section describing the enduring popularity of the Tiger Moth and
an invitation to join the de Havilland Moth Club, a worldwide
organization devoted to preserving and flying this historic model.
This is a well rendered product with great attention to detail and
the US$42.99 suggested retail price is not at all unreasonable. The
Tiger Moth is a very enjoyable yet basic airplane. However, it is this
basic quality that actually makes it a challenge to fly for pilots used
to pushing buttons and watching cockpit electronic display screens to
obtain their flight information. Frankly, I was surprised by how much
I thoroughly enjoyed flying this back to basics airplane. 4
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8/14/2007 7:37:37 PM
FREEWAREFRENZY
Top Downloads at a Price that is Hard To Beat!
FREEWARE EXPLORERS THIS ISSUE: DAVID WILSON-OKAMURA
y popular demand, Freeware Frenzy has returned to Computer Pilot magazine!

Every 2nd issue, we will track down the best freeware downloads available for a wide
variety of civilian and combat simulators. Every add-on mentioned in this column
can be yours for FREE (Internet connection required) thanks to the great community of
freeware developers devoting their time to creating awesome simulation masterpieces.
We salute you!
Cessna 150 Aerobat
FS2004 and FSX Aircraft
Filename: Cessna_150_L_100.zip Filesize: 46,964 kb

Authors: Francois-Denis Guide and Yves Franckart Available from: http://drk.free.fr/tutoriels/creation/c150_en.php
For a long time, the Cessna 150 and 152 have been the workhorses of
American flight schools. Forgiving and stable, theyre good planes to
learn on, but not fast and certainly not glamorous. However, if it dives
for speed first, the Aerobat can be coaxed into rolls, loops, hammerheads,
and spins; hence the name. But what is going to grab most downloaders,
Ill wager, is the level of detail. There arent a lot of gauges in the real
cockpit, but what gauges there are modeled here with loving fidelity.
Sun visors come down, air valves open, key chains swing, the whiskey
compass bobs. On the passengers seat, theres a working slide rule for
wind, weight, and speed calculations. The outside is detailed as well:
rivet-counters will have plenty to keep them occupied. Wheel-pants can
be turned on or off, and there is already a paintkit (c150l100hppaintkit.zip
in the AVSIM file library). By the time I finished writing this article, there
were already several repaints. The 150 is not hard to fly, but do read the
manual. Its mostly pictures, and explains both the idiosyncrasies of the
real-world plane and the various features of the flight sim model.
Straight from the Farm
CESSNA 150
Pacific Fighters Training Campaign
Filename: search for Zeus-cat to find all available missions by this author Filesize: 248 kb
Author: Zeus-cat Available from: mission4today.com/index.php?name=Downloads&file=details&id=2147
Have you tried Pacific Fighters or IL-2 Sturmovik: 1946 and given up
because the learning curve was too steep? This series of nineteen missions
breaks the process of carrier operations into manageable steps. Youll
start with simple objectives: take off from a dirt strip and fly to yonder
river. Once youve mastered that, youll do the same thing with a half-ton
bomb. When youre ready to move on from that, youll work on landings:
first on a dirt strip, then on a dirt strip with the outline of a carrier deck on
it, until eventually youre ready to try the real thing. There are a couple
bombing missions, but the main focus of the missions is learning how
to take-off and land on a moving aircraft carrier: first on one of the big
Lexington-class ships and then, when youre comfortable with that, on
one of the smaller escort carriers. For most of your training, youll be
flying a Dauntless dive-bomber, the hero of Midway. Its ugly, but its
slow! Later missions feature the faster and more glamorous F4F Wildcat,
but the Dauntless grows on you, and I found myself coming back to it
once the training campaign was over.
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STRAIGHT FROM THE FARM
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:39 PM
Carrier Training Mission Generator 1.3
Pacific Fighters/IL-2 Sturmovik: 1946 Utility
Filename: search for IL2_CTMG Filesize: 555 kb

Author: LSA Available from: mission4today.com/index.php?name=Downloads&file=details&id=2400
Here is another tool to practice carrier operations. Simple but powerful, this little
program will create custom carrier missions using any flyable aircraft from the
IL-2 series. This includes heavy bombers and fighters with no tailhookstheres
no guarantee of success, but nothing to prevent you from trying either. Apparently
almost anything is possible, as these videos on YouTube demonstrate: youtube.com/
watch?v=W7QGCuL44rA and youtube.com/watch?v=Tee76OAsuy0. But CTMG
is more than a novelty toy. Sure, you can use it to set up what-if fantasy scenarios.
But its real purpose is to practice carrier operations under various conditions and in
different combinations. Landing a Seafire in calm weather is one thing, but landing
in a thunderstorm is something else again. With CTMG, you can vary the aircraft
you fly, the type of carrier you land on, the weather, the cloud cover, wind speed,
carrier heading, initial altitude (for missions that begin in the air), and time of day.
All missions take place on the Coral Sea mapthat cant be changedbut you
can add escort ships and friendly flyers to make things more interesting visually.
Download is small, documentation is clear, and missions are very easy to set up.
CARRIER TRAINING MISSION GENERATOR
ACT Hangar Manager

Filename: act_5916.zip
Author: Robert Shiplett
FS2004 Utility
Filesize: 3,780 kb
Available from: logiquewercks.plymouthreliable.com/accfgtool.html
Until recently, this program was payware. It doesnt work with FSX, and it does take
some getting used to. If you dont like to tinker, leave it alone.
ACT stands for Aircraft Config Tool. In its original form, it made it easier to change
variables like parking type, manufacturer, and ATC model for a given aircraft. That
functionality is still here, but the program has grown into something much bigger.
You can now edit panels, sound configurations, and the basic configuration file for
FS9 itself. But the real power of the program is its ability to manage large numbers
of aircraft as a group. This is especially useful if you download a lot of freeware.
You may have noticed that, over the years, your sim loads a little slower. Every time
you load the sim or choose a new aircraft, FS9 goes through all of your aircraft files
to see what you have. If you have a lot of aircraft, this can take awhile. ACT Hangar
Manager solves this problem by hangaringputting in virtual storageaircraft
you dont use regularly. Its also useful for tidying up. I like to organize my aircraft
by manufacturer (e.g., Hughes for the Apache helicopter). Frequently, though,
developers will use their own name for that field. ACT Hangar Manager makes it
easy to spot these and fix a bunch of aircraft in one go.
A few words about installation. The user name and password for freeware
registration are listed on the download page; youll need them when you start the
program for the first time. Know also that ACT Hangar Manager is extremely
cautious. It wont put entries in your system registry, and its very careful about
making changes in the sim without double-checking. Thats the good news. The grey
news is that, while Windows XP can open most zip files automatically, it has trouble
with this one. Dont fret, just get the freeware utility 7-zip from 7-zip.org. Itll
decompress anything you throw at it, including ACT Hangar Manager.
Battlestar Galactica
Filenames: search for BSG to find all current files
Aircraft and Scenery for FS2004 and FSX

Author: Bruce Fitzgerald
Available from: avsim.com
Depending on your television viewing habits, this next collection of items will strike
you as either impossibly cool, or contemptible beyond words. By converting existing
models and textures, Bruce Fitzgerald has created an entire fleet of flyable vehicles
from the science fiction TV show Battlestar Galactica. (This is the new BSG, on
cable, not the network version from the 1980s.) Who among us has not wondered,
What are the stall characteristics of a Cylon Raider? Now you can find out. There
are two Cylon ships, and of course the Galactica with its ragtag, fugitive fleet of
Colonial Vipers, Raptors, carriers, transports, tankers, shuttles, freighters, and flattop
repairships. Parking is not a problem, because Fitzgerald has also provided a pair of
sceneries, located near Pearl Harbor, which float in the clouds and which you can
land on like an aircraft carrier.
cpm1109.indd 29
ACT HANGAR MANAGER
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA
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8/14/2007 7:37:40 PM
Chance Vought Corsair 4FU-7

Filenames: corsairf4u7.zip and cof4ufix.zip Filesizes: 23,080 and 6,845 kb
Authors: Guy Hulin, Jean-Pierre Langer, Arne Bartels, Jean-Pierre Bourgeois, Benoit Dub
Aircraft for FS2004

Available from: avsim.com
Back to the real world. Today the Corsair is remembered as one of the great fighters of the
Pacific theater in World War II. But it wasnt an instant classic. Although its upside-down
gull wings were designed for carrier operations, its long snout made for poor visibility in the
landing configuration. Initially the U.S. Navy passed on the fighter, and it was taken up by
the Marines, who flew it from land bases. Eventually it was the British who figured out how
to land the fighter on aircraft carriers, using a curved approach that kept the carrier deck in
sight until the last moment.
The story of the Corsair is well known, but hearing it and flying it are two different things.
This freeware Corsair is a late, post-war model that was built for the French navy. But it
still has all of the power, good looks, and bad habits of the fighter that flew in World War
II. Landings are still tricky, even if youre not chasing a moving carrier deck, because the
Corsair will drop a wing if you stall at low speeds. Gauges are clear, both in the 2D cockpit
and in the VC. Outside views are crisp and detailed; this is another one for the rivet counters.
There are several repaints available, including the Coca-Cola livery shown here (f4u_coke.
zip); search for bleu ciel to find them all. Even if you dont download any of the repaints,
however, do be sure to get the fix file (cof4ufix.zip), which adds a couple new variations and
improves the flight model.
Antonov An-2
VOUGHT CORSAIR
Aircraft for FS2004 and FSX
Filenames: An2T_07.zip, an2t_071.zip, an2t_072.zip Filesizes: 6,850 kb, 2,183 kb, 1,400 kb
Author: Vladimir Zhyhulskiy Available from: avsim.com
This one is for freight dogs. If you like the DHC-2 Beaver that comes standard with FSX
and want to try something even more rugged, this is your number. Apparently the An-2 was
the largest single-engine biplane ever made, and they made a lot of them. Beginning after
World War II, factories in Russia (and later, Poland and China) manufactured almost 20,000
Annushkas, many of which are still in service, ferrying passengers and cargo to remote
locations. The model pictured here is Vladimir Zhyhulskiys third version of the An-2, and
includes a working virtual cockpit, animated pilot figures, and special effects for startup and
snow landings. Two types are available, wheels and skis. Gauges are all legible. As delivered,
sounds are aliased to the Cessna 172 to save on file spaceZhyhulskiy lives in Ukraine, and
uploading large files has been difficult. He recommends, therefore, that you also download
the Junkers Ju-52 by Pierino Primavesi (ju52v50.zip in the AVSIM file library) and use the
sounds from that; this works a treat. Note that the cockpit gauges are metric, with text in
Russian. Fortunately for English speakers, the pop-up tool tips are in English, and so is the
documentationwhich you do need to read. Flying the Annushka isnt difficult, but theres
a trick to the start-up, and in the air you need to allow for wide turns and use a lot of rudder.
Again, dont forget to download and install the two supplemental files, an2t_071.zip and
an2t_072.zip, which correct a couple of details.
Bombardier Learjet 45 Gauge Enhancements
ANTONOV AN-2
Gauges for FSX
Filename: learjet_45_enhancements.zip Filesize: 2,266 kb

Author: Alexander Barthel Available from: avsim.com
This issues Freeware Frenzy has been heavy on new aircraft. But the default aircraft are
worth exploring further, and usually have excellent framerates, which makes them more
usable on older hardware. Out of the box, the default Learjet 45 for FSX is very flyable, but
there are some minor improvements that can make it even more pleasurable, and you dont
have to learn a new aircraft to enjoy them. In this easy-to-install update, Alexander Barthel
shows how you can edit the aircraft.cfg file to fix some missing lights on the belly and
wingtips. He also offers a modified version of the Learjets default gauge file. This adds about
a dozen new features to the existing instruments, including: the ability to switch back and
forth between standard engine data and a moving map based on the default GPS; distance and
station name for VOR2; a wind arrow that shows wind speed and direction; a radar altimeter
for precise readings under 1,000 feet above ground level; minimum and maximum airspeed
markings; and other miscellaneous fixes. Directions are clear and installation takes only a few
minutes. Once in place, the altered gauges wont interfere with your accustomed workflow
in the cockpit, and you can try out the new features at your own pace. Some of them, such as
the wind arrow and radar altimeter, will be obviously and immediately useful; others, like the
moving map, are powerful but will stay out of the way until you call for them.
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cpm1109.indd 30
BOMBARDIER LEARJET 45 GAUGE

ENHANCEMENTS
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:40 PM
BY TOM KURTZ
irst Officer John Scotty Walker of

Tradewind Caribbean Airlines couldnt wait
to get into the air-conditioned comfort of the
737-800WL cockpit. It was an exceptionally hot
day at Curacaos Willemstad Hato International
Airport. As he brushed past Janice Adler, the Senior
Flight Attendant, she called after him, Whats the
rush Scotty?
No rush, it is hot as blue blazes out there today. Gotta get out of the
heat.
Janice went back to checking the passenger manifest and mused to
herself about Johns nickname, I wonder if he really drinks Johnny
Walker Red Label Scotch?
Captain Thomas Tom Wrenson was just coming aboard. Janice
welcomed him with her dazzling white smile, Hi Capt.Wrenson,
Scotty is already on board. You look a little under par today, sir.
Are you alright? Tom was only three months from the mandatory
retirement age of 60 and he didnt like people worrying about his
health, I wish people would mind their own business, he thought.
GE
Cayman Island Honeymoon
CAPT. WRENSONS 737-800WL
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8/14/2007 7:37:41 PM
Not to worry, its just the heat. It feels good in here though.
Tom went forward to the cockpit and began the pre-flight checklists
with Scotty. The truth of the matter was he had been having slight
chest pains during the last couple of weeks. He had made a secret
appointment with a cardiologist last week and was warned by the
doctor to quit flying until some further tests could be done. Tom
thought it was just indigestion and didnt tell anybody at TCA about
it. He just wanted to keep flying for the next 90 days.
Scotty had already set the Ground Frequency in the COM2 radio.
He selected COM2 and keyed the microphone, Ground, Boeing-PJGCI ready to taxi IFR as filed. Scotty got ready to write again.
Boeing PJ-GCI taxi to and hold short of Runway 29 using
taxiway AEAST. Contact tower on 118.3 when ready. Scotty read
back the instructions correctly and nodded to Captain Wrenson to
begin the push-back.
Scotty was patiently waiting for his promotion to Captain next
month, he had already bought new uniforms. He thought, Next
month I wont be doing all the work! Captain Tom is a good guy, but
I cant wait to be the pilot in command of my own aircraft. Little
did Scotty know that his chance to be in command was coming much
sooner than he expected.
PARKED AT HATO TERMINAL
Scotty noticed that the Captain didnt seem like his usual self, Are
you Ok sir? You look a little tired?
I am fine Scotty. It is just the heat. Lets get through these
checklists. The passengers are boarding already.
Janice spoke over the intercom, Captain, the passengers are
briefed, seated, and buckled, we are ready to taxi.
Scotty keyed the microphone, Plesman Tower, Boeing PJGCI ready to copy IFR clearance to 14FA. The tower answered
immediately. The tower always sounded like a robot to Scotty.
Boeing PJ-GCI, cleared IFR to 14FA as filed. Fly runway heading,
climb and maintain 12,000. Departure frequency 119.6, squawk
1517. Scotty wrote down the instructions in his own shorthand he
had devised several years ago then read them back to the tower.
Boeing PJ-GCI read back is correct. Contact ground on 118.3
when ready to taxi.
TAXIING TO RWY29 HATO INTL
32
cpm1109.indd 32
HATO RWY 29 READY TO ROLL
They took off; ATC vectored them on a course to Miami. Captain

Wrenson picked up the intercom, Welcome aboard TCA flight 1135 to
Miami. We will be flying at 32,000 feet, or as we pilots say FL320. The
weather is good all the way to Florida. We will be in the air about two
and half hours. Lunch will be served once we reach cruising altitude.
For your pleasure this afternoon the movie is Pirates of the Caribbean
On a Dead Mans Chest starring Johnny Depp. If you need anything
please ask our Senior Flight Attendant Ms. Janice Adler.
TAKE-OFF FROM HATO INTERNATIONAL, CURACAO
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:42 PM
Cayman Islands; many of the men were wearing Hawaiian Aloha

shirts, shorts and sandals. The women were really decked out in
colorful revealing warm weather clothing. The passengers were
laughing and joking about being newlyweds. Ill be glad when I
dump these people off on Grand Cayman, he thought.
The two-hour layover zipped by like two minutes. Captain Wrenson
seemed rested and looked OK to Scotty. As they boarded the plane
Janice greeted them with a big smile, This is going to be a fun flight,
and nearly all the passengers are newlyweds on their honeymoon.
TCA even donated a case of champagne for the trip, she said.
So I heard. Big deal! said Scotty and headed to the cockpit.
Janice was about to make a sarcastic retort, but held her tongue,
The big dope! I wish hed ask me out sometime and who knows
what might happen. Maybe we could be going on our honeymoon
someday, she thought.
CLIMBING OUT OF HATO
Tom put down the microphone, Take over Scotty. My stomach is

a little upset. I am going back to see if Janice has something for it.
Scotty put down the Island Breezes magazine he was reading and
took the yoke.
Tom returned in about ten minutes and slid into the captains seat,
Go ahead and fly her for a while, Scotty until my stomach settles
down. Janice gave me some Pepto-Bismol but it hasnt worked yet,
he said.
Scotty studied Toms face for a minute, Alright sir, but if you still
arent feeling well when we get to Miami why dont you just go to
our layover hotel and stay the night. Remember we just have a short
layover to refuel and take on passengers for a flight to Grand Cayman
Island and then back to Hato. I recommend you call TCA and get a
standby captain to take the rest of the trip.
Tom shook his head no, Ill be OK. Its a short flight. Scotty
knew how stubborn Tom could be so he didnt pursue the matter any
further. Scotty flew the plane until the descent point about 90 nm out
of Miami then Tom took over. Scotty thought the captain seemed
to be all right now, so not to worry. The approach and landing was
picture perfect. After parking at the terminal the two pilots went to
take a break and file a new flight plan to the Cayman Islands.
Scotty, please file a flight plan to Roberts International (MWCR)
on Grand Cayman Island. I am going to the pilots lounge and freshen
up, see you later.
OK, sir. Scotty watched Tom walk away, I wish hed stay here
tonight, he thought. At the flight service desk the pretty little clerk
smiled at Scotty, So youre going to the Cayman Islands. I wish I
were going with you I hear it is a great place to vacation. Did you
know this flight is kind of special? she asked.
No, whats so special about it?
Well, sir, it has been sold out as the Honeymoon Flight by
some travel agency in the Caymans. Nearly all the passengers are
newlyweds. There is going to be some serious parties on Grand
Cayman this weekend. Im sort of a newlywed myself. I was just
married three months ago. We took a trip to the Bahamas for our
honeymoon. Scotty already heard more than he wanted to and cut
her off, Thats nice, and pushed the flight plan form across the desk
to the clerk, Please file this right away, he said. As Scotty walked
away the clerk watched him for a moment, Jerk! Ill bet hes a
bachelor! she thought. He was.
As Scotty made his way to the pilots lounge he passed a line
of passengers queuing up to board his plane. There was a holiday
atmosphere about them. They were dressed for vacations in the
CLIMBING OUT OF MIAMI
DEPARTING MIAMI
Departure from Miami went without a problem. Captain Wrenson

was in a good mood. He picked up the intercom, Welcome aboard
the TCA Honeymoon flight. The champagne isnt just for the
honeymooners. The old marrieds can celebrate too. We will be
in the air for about one hour and twenty minutes. The weather is
good from here to the Cayman Islands, which belong to the United
Kingdom. This is a short flight so only snacks will be served.
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8/14/2007 7:37:44 PM
If you havent been to the Cayman Islands before you are in for a
treat. Heres a little history background, the islands were first sighted
by Christopher Columbus May 10, 1503 during his disastrous fourth
and final voyage to the New World. The first recorded English visitor
was Sir Francis Drake in 1586. Drake named the islands Cayman
after the Neo-Taino nation term Caiman for crocodile. There are
still crocodiles on the islands, so be careful! The islands along with
Jamaica were captured, and then ceded to England in 1670 under the
Treaty of Madrid. They were governed along with Jamaica as a single
colony until 1962 when they became a separate British overseas
territory and Jamaica became an independent commonwealth realm.
Im sure I bored you with the history so lets talk about today. Today
the Cayman Islands enjoy one of the highest standards of living
in the Caribbean. Thriving tourism and banking industries aid the
economy. The Cayman Islands have their own currency pegged to
the U.S.Dollar (USD). The KYD or CI$ unit is the dollar. The rate of
exchange today is 1.27 per USD, you will enjoy that too.
TURNING ON COURSE FOR GRAND CAYMAN ISLAND
There are miles of white sandy beaches to enjoy and lots to do.
You will find a copy of Island Breezes magazine in the pocket of
the seat back in front of you. This month the featured destination is
the Cayman Islands. Look through it for some of the places to see
and things to do like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, golf, and tours
of the island. George Town has great nightlife. Let me tell you the
food is superb. My favorite restaurant is the Casanova. The have
great Italian food. They also serve the best seafood on the island.
My favorite is Caribbean Lobster Tail. Relax and enjoy the flight. If
you need anything just ask our Senior Flight Attendant Janice. Tom
clicked off the intercom and turned and smiled at Scotty, Why the
worried look, Scotty?
Oh, nothing sir, I was just wondering if you are OK now.
Tom smiled, I am feeling just fine. That little break in Miami did
the trick.
When they were near the point of no return Scotty programmed
the Garmin 1000 for the Goran One Arrival into Grand Cayman. He
selected the ATUI Intersection via GCM R-001 then the GORAN
Intersection via R-259 into the airport. They were now flying on
autopilot so Scotty got up, Tom, I am going to take a little coffee
break and stretch my legs, he said.
Ok, but make sure it is coffee and not the champagne.
Yeah right, Scotty thought, he knew the captain was just joking.
He went to the galley.
34
cpm1109.indd 34
Janice poured Scotty a cup of coffee, How is the captain? she

asked. Scotty raised his eyebrows tilted his head toward Janice, I dont
know. Why dont you have a look and tell me what you think. Ok, I
will. Janice took a cup of coffee for the captain and went forward to
the cockpit. Scotty sat down and looked out the window - it was late
afternoon. It was Scottys favorite time of day, the trip was nearly over
and he was looking forward to a good nights sleep at his favorite hotel in
George Town.
Janice came back into the galley and pulled the door shut behind her,
Scotty, we have a problem! Captain Wrenson has passed out and I cant
wake him up, she said.
Scotty threw his empty coffee cup into the trash basket, leaned forward
and clasped his hand to his forehead, Crap! He should have stayed in
Miami like I suggested. Ok, lets go see whats going on, he said. He
and Janice hurried to the cockpit.
Captain Wrenson was slumped over the yoke. Scotty eased him back
into sitting position and checked his breathing, which seemed labored.
He reached up and released the captains oxygen mask and put it on him.
Janice was leaning over the back of the captains seat. Scotty looked
up at her, Hes alive. We are going to need some help. Notify the
passengers that the captain is ill and see if there may be a doctor aboard,
he said. Janice didnt waste any time getting to her intercom and spoke
in a professional tone of voice, May I have your attention please, the
passengers all quieted down, The captain has suddenly taken ill. Dont
worry everything is under control First Officer Walker is now the pilot
in command and is taking over as captain. Is there a doctor on board?
Janice waited for a response.
A petite blonde in the rear of the plane stood up, Im a doctor, she
said and started forward. Her husband came with her, Can I help? he
asked Janice.
Yes, we need to move the captain into the crews rest area where he
can lay down.
The blonde looked at Janice, I am Dr. Amy Benson. I am a senior
resident in Emergency Care at South Miami Hospital. This is my
husband Charlie..er Charles R. Benson, she said. Janice thought,
Somebody up there likes us.
The doctor took charge, Do you have an emergency medical kit?
Janice nodded yes and went to get the kit. Dr. Benson went into the
cockpit. Scotty was still giving Tom oxygen. Janice handed the doctor
the medical kit. Dr. Benson was happy to find everything she could ask
for in the kit. She took out a stethoscope and blood pressure cuff and
checked Toms vital signs. I believe he is having a heart attack. Giving
him the oxygen was the best thing you could have done. Ok, lets move
him to the crew rest area, she said. Scotty was so relieved that there
was a doctor on board. Captain Wrenson wasnt a big man, Scotty and
Charlie had no problem moving him. Dr. Benson expertly stabilized
her unexpected patient. She was also happy to find the plane carried a
portable Burdick defibrillator. Scotty motioned to Janice to follow him
to the cockpit, I am going to need some help flying this plane. See if
there is a pilot on board or someone who flies airliners on a computer
simulation, he said.
Janice made the announcement. Nobody in the cabin stood up. She
turned to go back to the cockpit and Charlie Benson stepped into the
passageway, Im a pilot, he said.
Janice couldnt believe their luck, a doctor married to a pilot, Come
with me, she said. They went forward to the cockpit. Scotty looked up at
Charlie, So youre a pilot? Whats your experience? he asked. Charlie
shrugged his shoulders, Im a pilot and a Captain in the United States
Air Force with 5 year service and I am on my honeymoon, he said.
What aircraft do you fly?
Charlie smiled, I just finished flight training on the B-2 bomber and
I am assigned to the 509th Bomb Group at Whiteman Air Force Base,
Missouri. Prior to becoming a B-2 pilot I flew a KC-135 tanker, he said.
Scotty looked up to heaven, Praise the Lord, he said.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:45 PM
You should take the captains seat. Charlie shook his head no,
Ill fly co-pilot. Charlie took the right hand seat and found the
emergency checklist. He tuned to 121.500 and announced, Pan.
Pan. Pan. This is TCA Honeymoon flight, 737-800 with 162 souls;
the captain is having a heart attack. We request emergency landing
clearance at Roberts International airport, Grand Cayman Island. ETE
is approximately 20 minutes. Roberts ATC responded, TCA squawk
7700. Charlie punched in and transmitted emergency squawk code.
ATC came back, TCA radar contact 110 miles North. Altitude
FL260. You are cleared straight in on Runway 26, wind 260 at 10kts
altimeter 30.20. Ambulance will be standing by.
Roger, 110 miles North. Cleared for Runway 26. TCA. Charlie
hung up the microphone and looked over at Scotty, By the way,
whats your name?
Oh, sorry, John Walker, but everybody calls me Scotty.
I wonder if he drinks Johnny Walker scotch? thought Charlie.
Pleased, to meet you Scotty.
They landed safely. Captain Wrenson was taken to the hospital in
George Town. Janice stopped Amy and Charlie as they left the plane,
Scotty and I want to thank you again. I just got a call from TCA
and they want to thank you too by paying for your trip and anything
you want to do on the island. Just bring your receipts to the TCA
terminal, she said. Janice watched them walk away Boy, will they
have something to tell their grandchildren, she thought.
Scotty and Janice walked into the terminal together. Scotty took
her arm and turned her around, Will you have dinner with me this
evening. You pick the restaurant? he asked. Janice smiled, I thought
you would never ask. Of course I will. Lets go to the Casanova.
Epilogue: Captain Wrenson recovered and spent the rest of his time
with TCA on extended sick leave. Then took a job in administration.
TCA HONEYMOON FLIGHT LANDED AT GRAND CAYMAN
Scotty and Janices relationship bloomed into marriage and they are
now honeymooning. You guessed it! In the Cayman Islands.
Dr. Amy Benson finished her residency and is now an attending
ER physician at South Miami Hospital. Her husband Charlie was
promoted to Major and is pilot in command of his own B-2 Spirit
bomber. They are planning to return to Grand Cayman Island on
vacation this summer.
Many thanks, to Wikipedia for the historical references and facts.
Happy Landings,
Tom Kurtz 4
35
cpm1109.indd 35
8/14/2007 7:37:45 PM
Pizzazz for FSX
Microsoft Flight Simulator X

Can Be More Interesting
BY BILL STACK
f youre bored with watching

aircraft taxi, take off, fly,
land and even crash, relief is
available. Files available on the
Internet for free downloading can
enhance your enjoyment of Flight
Simulator X far beyond the
runway end identifier lights.
Simmers unimpressed or bored with the
default FSX splash screens can download
other selections made by other flight
simmers. These alternative screens feature
general aviation, combat aircraft, exotic
locations, and unusual views. Theyre ideal
for simmers who would rather see splash
screens featuring their preferred aircraft.
Having a personalized first impression
will surely launch great flight-simulation
experiences.
For a nostalgic touch, a sepia version
of the FSX opening screen is offered. In
publishing and photography, a sepia is a
photo or print in brown tones to give an
old-time appearance. Nothing like having
an up-to-date computer program that looks
100 years old, is there?
The Air Show Objects package

includes vendor tents, tacky refreshment
stands, and a row of portable toilets. To
our great fortune, there are no lines for
eating or relieving.
For those who are as bored with
stagnant ground vehicles as I am, the
HALO Warthog ATV features a militarygreen all-terrain vehicle with a top speed
of 104 knots and the ability to climb
steep inclines. The description says
nothing about traversing rocks and ruts in
the rough at 104 knots, however.
Being the holy grail of flight
simulation, realism is well represented
in these enhancements. The 737 Sounds
package, as one example, promises to
make your 737 sound more like a jet
aircraft than a hairdryer. What irony:
I always thought my wifes hairdryer
sounded like a jet engine!
The Learjet Sounds package features
completely accurate sounds with an
exciting realistic windup . . . as close to
the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A
turbofans as you can get. How close to
this turbofan did the developer stand in
order to record such realistic sounds?
Various scenery objects make airports

look more like real places where activities
really occur. The Airport Vehicles package
Messing About With Engine Exhaust
includes fuel trucks, de-icer trucks, and
Flame Effects is available in Parts 1 and
several baggage-cart trains without
2. A little bit of simulated pyromania cant
baggage (presumably because the airlines
hurt anybody, unless it graduates to real
lost them already). A dump truck filled
life. Talk about having too much time on
with items confiscated by airport security
ones hands! Lets hope Part 3 isnt totally
agents would be nice if any developer
realistic.
would like to make one.
36
cpm1109.indd 36
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:46 PM
BILL STACK
Inaccurate stars will no longer detract
from our flight-sim experiences. The
AutoStar X utility adds comets, brighter
planets in the correct position for any
date, eclipses, and even Messier objects.
(Messier objects are celestial objects that
resemble comets but are not such.) If
this package fixes the misplaced moons
that continue to distract me, it would
be worthwhile. Seeing a moon where it
would never be in real life or in a phase
thats impossible for its location is more
irritating than tardy passengers carrying
too much luggage.
usually asleep before were pushed back

from the gate. My wife doesnt even
know how Im able to fall asleep so
fast. When I added docking jetways to
my sleep-induction sequence, I was out
before the doors were shut.
The Countdown to FSX was a program
that had a timer to countdown until
FSX was released. This is something I
failed to do while I was concentrating on
tracking my retirement investments.
Here are more items in the category of

What are we supposed to do with this
The FSX Music Player enables us
information?
to play some tunes while you fly for
The FSX Airline Inventory Package 35
whatever reason we would want to do
is a spreadsheet showing an AI system
such. Passengers may listen to music, but
with all the aircraft, vehicles, ships,
pilots must pay attention to their flight
birds, and more. The spreadsheets
duties. Thats whats missing passengers
source text files are included for
listening to music.
those who lack Microsoft Excel. The
developer says this has been a very
FSX Aiports and Navaids in Google
large and time-consuming project as the
Earth contains all the airports and navaids
AI system has more than 7000 texture
for FSX and includes all communication
sets, more than 2200 airline folders, and
and navigation frequencies, runway
other assorted AI components.
details, and relevant ILS information.
Somebody else spent considerable
This important information was extracted
time comparing the airports in FS 2004
from the default FSX scenery files
to those in FSX and found quite a lot of
in November 2006, according to the
differences. Of FSXs 24,491 airports,
description. I dont know what relevance
according to this volunteer researcher, 794
the date of extraction has or what
are new, 1,038 are designated differently,
we should do with such information.
and 61 are gone. This package contains
Apparently this package shows FSX
several comma-separated databases
airports while were using Google Earth.
and a huge spreadsheet that report the
Thanks, guys, but Id rather see FSX
differences for anybody who needs or
airports while Im using FSX.
wants to know.
Airport Catalogs for Europe, North
America, South America and Africa
list all the airports in the original FSX
scenery files. Since the information on
the airports has been extracted directly
from the default scenery files, the
developer hopes there are no errors or
omissions.
As useful as some of these downloads
seem, some of them are like watching
propellers spin:
These projects superbly demonstrate

the diversity of flight simulation.
Anybody who will spend so much time
compiling so much information cant
have much time left for simulating
flight. I guess if the activity is related
to simulating flight, it comes under the
banner of flight simulation.
If youre having trouble with the
controls in FSX, the 12-page Default
Command List might or might not help
you. Somewhere in those 12 pages of
all the default FSX controls might be
the answer to your questions, and maybe
not. You can find the answer to that
question by studying those 12 pages of
reference material.
The FSX Jetways patch allows the

FSX jetways to dock onto FS 2004
aircraft imported into FSX. With this in
mind, Ill share a reliable method for
falling asleep at night when my mind
is spinning with important items of the
day and coming days: I imagine myself
For those of us who dont have time
as an airline pilot running through the
or space for 12 pages of reference text,
preflight checklist while passengers
the FSX Key Commands Pamphlet
board, then taxiing the aircraft to the
solves our problem. It lists all the key
runway, then taking off. Well, Im
commands except slew on one page in
Adobe Acrobat and JPEG format. Just an

easy glance at sheet for quick reference,
promises its creator. Its actually well laid
out and quite handy.
Do cockpit reflections in FSX bother
you? The Remove Cockpit Reflections
package contains files to remove these
annoying distractions from default FSX
aircraft. It includes the default cockpit
texture files edited to remove the reflections
in the virtual cockpits. On a scale from one
to 10 with 10 being FSXs agonizingly slow
performance, where would you rate cockpit
reflections? Ill download and install this
item very soon.
Just in case too many stars or too bright
stars are contributing to FSXs slow
performance, the Modified Star Catalog
shows stars down to magnitude 5.50
to reduce load (about 2900 instead of
9000+).
Another way to improve FSXs
horrible frame-rate performance is to
diminish demands by resetting FSXs
approximately 50 display settings from
its defaults. Reducing the number of AI
aircraft, making less detailed scenery,
omitting shadows, and so forth will
smooth performance (at the expense of
realism, however). The FSX Suggested
Settings package is a sort of checklist
that helps keep track of these changes.
The best ways to improve FSXs
poor frame rates and generally laggard
performance are to install higher
capacity hardware and Microsofts
patch, respectively. Frame rates in
FSX improved dramatically after I
installed a new high-performance
video card, and generally laggard
performance improved remarkably
after I installed Service Pack 1 for
FSX, which is available from the
Microsoft web site.
Please send me a note via the
magazine editor telling me what you
like or dislike about FSX.
Bill Stack is an expert flight simmer, a

management consultant and a professional
writer, speaker and trainer based in Knoxville,
Tennessee, USA. He has authored several books
and numerous articles about flight simming.
His books are available from quality flight
sim suppliers such as PC Aviator at www.
pcaviator.com, and he can be contacted at
fsbooks@topskills.com 4
37
cpm1109.indd 37
8/14/2007 7:37:50 PM
38
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CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 7:37:51 PM
REVIEW
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Photograph by Glenn Alderton
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cpm1109.indd 39
8/14/2007 7:37:57 PM
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cpm1109.indd 41
8/14/2007 10:32:45 PM
X-Ploring Mars with X-Plane
BY CHUCK BODEEN
lying on Mars is not quite like flying on Earth.

There are numerous factors that must be taken
into consideration, all of which will help you
stay airborne in the hostile environment. In fact,
flying on Mars is like flying on an Alien planet, yet
there are no aliens found to date on the red planet!
HERE ARE TWO SIDES OF MARS FROM THE NSSDC (NATIONAL SPACE
SCIENCE DATA CENTER) PART OF NASA
42
cpm1109.indd 42
What Mars is Like

Mars is not really a very friendly place for human beings. There is
no magnetic field to shield the surface from cosmic radiation, which
also means that your Boy Scout compass will be useless. X-Plane
does not recognize this difference and wet compasses work just
fine. That cosmic radiation also means that there is probably no life
possible within several meters of the surface. One source gives the
temperature range from a low of -225F (-143C) at the polar caps to a
high of +81F (+27C) on warm ground. The atmosphere is 95% carbon
dioxide and it snows dry ice at the poles.
The north polar cap is almost all water ice covered with a seasonal
cover of dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide). The south cap is much larger
and has a thick layer of permanent dry ice under which is an even
deeper layer of water ice. You will find Mars information all over
the Internet, but data from different sources sometimes is slightly
conflicting.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:32:53 PM
X-PLANE
AT NIGHT, THE MARS SKY IS VERY DARK AND YOU WILL SEE ALL THE
STARS IN THE SAME PLACES JUST AS IF YOU WERE ON EARTH. THE
CONSTELLATION PLEADES (SEVEN SISTERS) IS MAGNIFIED FROM XPLANE ON THE LEFT AND COMPARES VERY WELL WITH THE PICTURE
TAKEN BY NASAS HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE. THE SMALL CIRCLE ON THE
RIGHT IS THE SUN AS SEEN FROM MARS WHEN IT RISES. THE LARGER
CIRCLE IS THE SIZE OF THE SUN AS SEEN FROM EARTH. IF YOU LOOK
CLOSELY AT YOUR COMPUTER SCREEN YOU WILL NOTICE THAT STARS
ARE VISIBLE IN THE DAY TIME ON MARS
THIS CHART SHOWS THE VARIATION OF AIR DENSITY FOR MARS AND
THE EARTH. NOTE THAT THE SCALE FOR MARS IS 1/100 OF THAT FOR
EARTH. OF COURSE WE DONT FLY MUCH BELOW SEA LEVEL ON THE
EARTH, SO THAT BLUE LINE IS EXTRAPOLATED. THE GREEN LINE IS THE
MARS DENSITY DIVIDED BY THAT ON EARTH
ELEVATION MAP OF MARS. CREDIT FOR THE IMAGE GOES TO THE

MOLA (MARS ORBITAL LASER ALTIMETER SCIENCE TEAM, MGS (MARS
GLOBAL SURVEYOR) AND TO NASA (NATION AERONAUTICS AND SPACE
ADMINISTRATION). THE CROSSES REPRESENT THE AIRPORTS THAT COME
WITH X-PLANE. THE S IS WHERE MARS ROVER SPIRIT LANDED AND
THE O IS WHERE OPPORTUNITY SET DOWN
The relief map of the Mars terrain also shows the extreme
elevations on Earth as well as on Mars. If we define the roughness
of a planet by the difference between its highest and lowest point
divided by its radius, Mars is 5.6 times rougher than the Earth
assuming the Earths lowest point is the Pacific Trench. If we use only
elevations where one would fly (Death Valley, USA as the lowest)
then Mars is about 10 times as rough. Notice that the elevation of
Mars highest point, Olympus Mons, has a range of values. This is
indicative of the variation in data available. The lower value is the
one used in X-Plane. Incidentally, scientists have defined sea level
on Mars as the elevation of the mean radius of the planet, or 3,383
kilometers (2,102 miles). The average atmospheric pressure there is
only 6.1 thousandths of that on Earth.
The speed of sound is the square root of the product of specific
heat, the specific gas constant, and the atmospheric temperature. All
three of these numbers are smaller on Mars than on Earth. There
is, then, a direct impact on the design of any flying vehicle, since
transonic flow and the increase becomes important at about Mach 0.8
and wave drag due to the formation of shock waves increases. This
applies to propellers as well as wings. The speed of sound on Mars
is only between 70% and 80% of that on Earth, so planes must fly
slower and props turn at lower RPM if they are to avoid transonic
losses. Lift and thrust suffer even more, since they both depend upon
the square of the speed.
DUE TO THE LOW DENSITY, THE SPEED OF SOUND ON MARS (RED LINE)
IS MUCH LOWER THAN IT IS ON EARTH (BLUE LINE). DATA FROM JEFF
SCOTT, EDITOR OF AEROSPACEWEB.ORG
Because of the variation of gravity, air density, and the speed of

sound, a plane designed to fly at the same Mach number as on Earth
would need a wing area 46 times as large. The chord and span of
the wing would then be approximately 6.8 times larger. If this is not
practical we must be content with traveling at lower Mach numbers or
using airfoils with higher lift coefficients.
43
cpm1109.indd 43
8/14/2007 10:32:55 PM
What you can get to enhance your experience

At http://www.dreamsenses.com/mars/marsx.html you will find
Bryan Butchers Mars X-experience which was created to fill a void
in the X-Plane Mars component. You can download nine additional
10x10 degree blocks of scenery and 67 more airports.
Way back in Version 7.xx, Laminar Research offered CDs with
scenery for the entire planet Mars. This scenery will still work with
X-Plane 8.xx, but the CDs are no longer available. Austin Meyer
has given me special permission to copy and distribute them until
December 31, 2007 when he says he will offer an improved version
on DVD for X-Plane 8.xx. Ordering information is in the box located
at the end of this article.
THE MAXIMUM RPM FOR MOST PROPS IS GOVERNED BY THE MACH

NUMBER AT THE TIP. THRUST IS RELATED TO THE SQUARE OF THAT
SPEED. THE TOP OF EACH BAND REPRESENTS MACH 1.0 AND THE
BOTTOM, MACH 0.8
What you get with X-Plane

Out of the box, X-Plane comes with elevation data and scenery
for a small portion of Mars covering south latitudes 10 to 20 degrees
and west longitudes 50 to 70 degrees (shown as a small red box on
Mars elevation map). Of the 16 airports that have been artificially
created on the planet, only two are within the default scenery area.
Navaids are ILS and Glide Slope radios for three of the airports.
There are six navigational fixes located at such places as where
Vikings (1 and 2) and Pathfinder vehicles landed. Many of the
airports were created by Robin Peel, but some were the work of Ralph
Butcher (see below). Robin also created most of the navaids and
waypoints (fixes).
The runways are all between 12,000 and 20,000 feet long. You
need all that length to build up enough speed to lift off in the thin
atmosphere. One thing you should notice is that the airport MAMO
Olympus Mons (elevation -770 feet) is in a valley close to the highest
mountain (elevation 21,000+ feet) from which it gets its name.
Two airplanes, created by Austin Meyer himself, come with the
standard distribution: MarsJet and MarsRocket.
THESE ARE THE AIRCRAFT THAT ARE AVAILABLE FOR FLYING ON

MARS. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: MARSROCKET AND
MARSJET (BOTH BY AUSTIN MEYER); MARSRECON, MARSLIFTER, AND
MARSVALKTRIE (BY CURT BOYLL); MARSVAN (BY HENNING RUCH); MMP1 (BY TIM CUATT); AND MARSTREK (BY MARCELO MARQUES). THE TOP
TWO COME WITH X-PLANE AND THE OTHERS CAN BE DOWNLOADED
FROM X-PLANE.ORG
Flying on Mars
HERE ARE ALL OF THE MARS AIRPORTS CREATED BY BRYAN BUTCHER
44
cpm1109.indd 44
Because of the lack of oxygen in the air, internal combustion

engines are not feasible on the Red Planet. Im not really sure how
Austin Meyers MarsJet is supposed to work, but it does fly at
least on the simulator. The rest of the ships use either rockets, solar
powered electric engines, or a combination of the two types. I found
that all of these planes fly well. Some are even capable of breaking
into the supersonic regime. One word of warning for you modelers
is that indicated airspeed depends upon air density. An airspeed
indicator designed for use on Earth will read very low on Mars and
the ASIs in X-Plane are all Earth instruments.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:32:59 PM
X-PLANE
BOYLLS MARSLIFTER USES ROCKETS TO GET OFF THE GROUND AND

THEN TWO COUNTER-ROTATING PROPS DRIVEN BY AN ELECTRIC
MOTOR FOR FLYING. A REMOVABLE TANK CAN BE FILLED WITH 5,000 LB
OF WATER FOR TRANSPORT FROM THE WATER MINES AT THE POLES.
CURT SUPPLIES DOCUMENTATION INCLUDING AN OPERATING MANUAL
WITH ALL OF HIS PLANES
PAUL JONES MADE THIS MODEL OF THE AKRON BLIMP WHICH I USED
TO COMPARE LIGHTER-THAN-AIR FLIGHT ON EARTH AND MARS
There is a possibility that lighter-than-air craft could be used on

Mars. Both hydrogen and helium will still be lighter than the CO2
atmosphere. Helium would need to be transported to the planet, but
hydrogen might be obtained by separating it from water if water is
ever found. Just as a test, I found that a blimp at sea level on Earth
can lift 35.8% of its displaced weight, whereas the same ship on
Mars can only lift 3.8%. Displaced weight is the way X-Plane
actually treats the displaced volume.
THE PANEL FOR THE MARSLIFTER, AS WELL AS THOSE ON BOYLLS OTHER

PLANES, ARE EXTREMELY DETAILED AND WELL DONE
THE EARTH VERSION OF THE CARTERGYRO IS SHOWN ON THE
RIGHT. A POSSIBLE WAY TO USE THE BASIC IDEA ON MARS IS TO
REPLACE THE INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE WITH SOLAR POWER.
A LARGE BATTERY WOULD BE USED FOR PRE-ROTATION AND THEN
DISCONNECTED FROM THE SHIP AS IT RISES. A SMALLER BATTERY
ONBOARD WOULD POWER THE ELECTRIC DRIVE PROP
Details of the CarterGyro concept have not been worked out. From
the discussion above, it is obvious that more and larger rotor blades
will be required. Neither model is in good enough shape to release to
the public yet, but keep watching x-plane.org and then you can enjoy
vertical takeoffs and landings. Because the large battery will be used
for takeoffs, you would not want to stray too far for home base. These
ideas are mine alone and not those of Carter Aviation Technologies.
Ground Travel
THIS IS THE PILOTS VIEW THROUGH THE HUD DISPLAY IN HIS HELMET
ON MARQUES MARSTREK. THERE ARE INDIVIDUAL THROTTLES FOR THE
LEFT AND RIGHT ROCKETS. THE PANEL IS COVERED WITH FINE CUSTOM
INSTRUMENTS. VERY GOOD DOCUMENTATION ACCOMPANIES THIS
PLANE AS WELL
Early in 2004, NASA landed two nearly identical machines that

are still crawling around Mars gathering data. They are remotely
controlled from Earth. Spirit landed at 14.57 degrees south latitude
and 175.47 degrees east longitude. Opportunity came down at 1.95
degrees south, 354.47 degrees east (or 5.53 degrees west). By the
way, Opportunity has now travelled over 10 Km (6.2 miles), nearly
17 times the distance for which it was designed.
45
cpm1109.indd 45
8/14/2007 10:33:00 PM
Other Approaches
You will find 57 topics about Mars at x-plane.org. You can read
about Austin Meyers adventures on Mars at http://www.x-plane.
com/mars.html. There is a nice review of X-Plane written by Nancy
Eaton at http://www.apple.com/games/articles/2005/06/xplane/
which mentions NASAs use of the simulator.
PERHAPS, ONE DAY, A VEHICLE SIMILAR TO THE LUNAR ROVER WILL

BE DISPATCHED TO MARS. I USED THE AC3D THREE-DIMENSIONAL
GRAPHICS PROGRAM TO CREATE THE ASTRONAUTS AND THE DISH
ANTENNA. THE REMAINING PARTS ARE ALL STANDARD X-PLANE MISC
BODIES.
THIS IS MY MODEL OF SPIRIT, ONE OF THE TWO NASA MARS ROVERS.

THE GEAR STRUTS ARE TRANSPARENT AND ARE REPLACED BY THE
MORE COMPLICATED ONES CREATED WITH AC3D
You can download the models of Spirit and Lunar Rover from
x-plane.org under Aircraft/ v8 Mars Spacecraft. Admittedly, both
models are relatively crude, but they will give you something to drive
around. Spirit has six wheels. By specifying that the front and back
both steer, X-Plane treats the fronts as if they were the front wheels
on a tricycle landing gear plane. The rears act as if they belonged
to a taildragger. The result is that on one side, at least, they turn in
opposite directions just like the real Mars rovers which can sit still
and turn around on the vertical axis to a new direction. The model
wont do quite that, but almost.
Since there is no way in X-Plane to power the wheels directly, both
models are powered by jet engines if Austin can use a jet on Mars,
so can I!
46
cpm1109.indd 46
NASAS MARSFLIGHT STARTS WITH A LAUNCH FROM CAPE KENNEDY.

THEN, AFTER YOU SELECT A MARS ENTRY LOCATION A PLANE WITH
FOLDING WINGS DEPLOYS
You can go directly to NASA and download their MarsFlight simulator

for free at http://education.grc.nasa.gov/MarsFlight/index.htm
At this writing NASAs sim is a beta version. You will see the launch
from Earth and the entry into the Mars atmosphere. An airplane will
come out of a shield, spread its wings, and start to fly. The scenery looks
a lot like that from X-Plane (after all they undoubtedly use the same
elevation data from MOLA) and the ship could easily have been created
with PlaneMaker. You might also want to look at http://marsairplane.
larc.nasa.gov/ for a discussion of the Mars airplane design.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:02 PM
X-PLANE
USING GOOGLE MARS YOU CAN ZOOM IN ON ANY LOCATION. HERE IS OLYMPUS MONS IN ELEVATION, VISIBLE, AND INFRARED RENDERINGS
The accompanying instructions tell you how to use a joystick or

mouse on the screen to fly the plane. However, I couldnt get that to
work and the plane flew a pre-determined flight path to a crash on the
surface. A new version was supposed to be released in April, 2007,
but has yet to appear.
Like X-Plane, Google has Mars as well as Earth. You can download
it from http://www.google.com/mars
Using the program you can call out named Regions, Mountains,
Plains, Canyons, Ridges, Dunes, and Craters as well as the locations
of spacecraft (not Spirit or Opportunity) and even stories about
particular parts of the planet.
To order full Mars scenery, send an email to bodeen@gmail.

com stating whether you prefer two CDs or one DVD. Be sure to
include your mailing address.
You will receive an email invoice for $20US (plus $3US
surcharge for shipping outside the U.S.)
If you dont have a PayPal account, just skip the login and
password. Once you have paid the invoice by email using your
credit card, debit card, PayPal account, or bank account the
Mars scenery will be sent in just a couple of days. 4
Enjoy Mars, however you choose to do it.

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Microsoft Flight Simulator

X
for
Pilots:
Real World Training
BOOK REVIEW BY DOUG HORTON
uthors and certified flight instructors Jeff

Van West and Kevin Lane-Cummings suggest
on the cover of their new book, For serious
pilots, its not a game, and their impressive volume
helps make this statement true. At 725 pages, their
book is very serious about flight training, as they link
the capabilities of Flight Simulator X to an impressive
training syllabus and flight lessons.
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cpm1109.indd 48
Why have the authors prepared this extensive book, with

expectations that there are interested readers who will purchase and
use the book? I suggest its because many Flight Simulator users are
seriously interested in learning to fly real aircraft, or perhaps theyre
already current or former real pilots who wish to learn more and
practice with Flight Simulator. In an online survey by Avsim.com of
Flight Simulator users in early 2006, of 3530 respondents, 15 percent
indicated they were real pilots, 10.7 percent answered they were
student pilots, and 7.4 percent responded they were inactive or lapsed
real pilots. Adding together these numbers, the survey results suggest
that about one of three responding Flight Simulator users are current,
student, or former real pilots. And for at least the first two categories,
training is an ongoing issue and continuing challenge.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:05 PM
The book is logically organized by levels of pilot certification

and related training topics. Each chapter includes corresponding
knowledge elements, illustrations, videos, and lesson flights, which
are related to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration published
Practical Test Standards that are used for flight examinations
(check rides).
Part I: Preflight
Chapter 1: Flight School Setup
Chapter 2: First Flight in the Piper J-3 Cub
Part II: Sport Pilot
Chapter 3: Ground Reference Maneuvers
Chapter 4: Airport Operations
Chapter 5: Old-Fashioned Navigation
Chapter 6: Emergencies
Chapter 7: Performance Takeoffs and Landings
Chapter 8: Slow Flight, Stalls, and Spins
Part III: Private Pilot
Chapter 9: First Flight in the Cessna 172SP
Chapter 10: Radio Navigation with Traditional Avionics
Chapter 11: First Flight with the G1000
Chapter 12: Night Flight
Chapter 13: Weather
Chapter 14: Maximizing Performance
Part IV: Instrument Rating
Chapter 15: Basic Attitude Instrument Flying
Chapter 16: IFR Flight
Chapter 17: Instrument Approaches
Chapter 18: GPS Approaches
Chapter 19: Additional Instrument Approaches
Chapter 20: IFR Emergencies
PUBLISHERS WEBSITE FOR BOOK, WITH DOWNLOADS TAB SELECTED
The FSX Flights and Movies file includes 101 training flights and
33 videos for FSX. I noticed that the first video I tried, Chap_02_
Around_the_lake.FSR, didnt operate properly on my system, and as
a result of my feedback, I know the authors are checking the integrity
of all videos for both Windows XP and Vista installations of FSX.
The Book Images download contains 75 charts and copies of the
Practical Test Standards for Sport Pilot, Private Pilot, Instrument
Rating, Commercial Pilot, and Air Transport Pilot. The accompanying
image shows a portion of the furnished sectional chart thats used in
Chapter 12 for a night flight from KANE (Anoka County, Minnesota)
to KFCM (Flying Cloud Airport, Minneapolis).
Part V: Commercial License

Chapter 21: Multiengine Flying in the Beechcraft Baron
Chapter 22: Commercial Flight Maneuvers
Chapter 23: Flying with One Feathered
Part VI: ATP and Beyond
Chapter 24: Multiplayer
Chapter 25: Virtual Airlines and Online Flying
Chapter 26: Virtual Air Traffic Control
Chapter 27: Conclusion
Each chapter contains other references, such as related
books and articles, as well as applicable lessons and missions
provided in FSX. Note however that the lessons in FSX were
not reworked from FS2004, and Ive read there may be issues
related to scenery and other changes in FSX, such that some
lessons may not work properly.
Flight and Videos

The authors have prepared extensive supplemental materials, which
are available by downloading from the publishers website. Because the
link for the books supporting web page is somewhat long, the authors
suggest browsing to the publishers website at www.wiley.com, then
searching for flight simulator. This should take you to the books
web page, where you can click the Download tab to see the three
available downloads: FSX Flights and Movies, Book Images, and
Bonus Chapters.
SECTIONAL CHART FURNISHED FOR

NIGHT TRAINING FLIGHT FROM KANE TO KFCM
The Bonus Chapters download adds two chapters and five

appendices to the book, comprising book pages 727 though 773, and
the following extended table of contents:
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Part VII: Bonus Materials

Bonus Chapter 1: Oxygen and Kerosene (pressurization, high altitude
flying, and turbine engines)
Bonus Chapter 2: Air Transport Pilot Boeing 737
Appendix A: Critical Command Reference (FSX keyboard commands)
Appendix B: Slew (pointers on slewing in FSX)
Appendix C: FAQ and Troubleshooting
Appendix D: FSX and Windows Vista
Appendix E: Online Resources
Typical Training Chapter

To examine a sample area of flight instruction, I studied the Part II
Chapter 3 section on Sideslip and Crosswind Landings, beginning on
page 80. This is an important topic for real flying that is not part of
the lessons for FS2004 or FSX.
Instructors Jeff and Kevin begin this section by suggesting that you
load their flight file Chap_03_Wichita_ Approach, which puts you
in the Piper J-3 Cub approaching a small grass landing strip to the
north. Theres an 8-knot wind from the left (west), and youll observe
that the aircraft tends to drift to the right (east) during the approach.
Youre then asked to crab by moving the nose into the wind by
using rudder, while continuing to track northerly to the runway.
Instead of landing, you overfly the runway about 50 feet above the
ground (1400 MSL) while continuing to crab. As you can observe
from the accompanying image, similar to Figure 3-17 in the chapter,
with this crosswind landing technique, the aircraft is level in bank,
yawed to the left, and pitched downward.
PIPER J-3 CUB APPROACHING RUNWAY WITH CROSSWIND FROM LEFT

AND SIDESLIP INTO THE WIND
The chapter continues by suggesting the reader practice both

crabbed and sideslip approaches five or six times without landing,
as the authors instruct their real students. Interestingly, the authors
mention that the FSX simulation rate could be changed to speed so
maneuvers can be practiced slower, until the reader becomes proficient.
When proficiency in crosswind approaches is demonstrated, its
time to land and with the sideslip technique, this requires holding the
left bank to keep the airplane from drifting right on touchdown, which
can cause significant sideward stress on the landing gear. Since the
wheels should track the direction of the runway on touchdown, rudder
is used to point the nose toward the far end of the runway. In this
configuration, its likely that the aircraft will land with the upwind
wheel touching first, as continually more aileron and rudder are use
to produce the same bank and yaw effects as the aircraft is flared and
slowed for landing. Thus, the aircraft lands with usual nose high pitch
and because of the sideslip, high downwind wing.
The sideslip maneuver requires continuing practice, and FSX is ideal
for this purpose. To demonstrate the sideslip maneuver, the books
downloads include video file Chap_03_Crosswind_Landing.FSR.
About the Authors

Jeff Van West is a certified flight instructor in both single and multiengine aircraft and editor of the professional pilot magazine IFR.
He has written training curricula for both computer simulation and
general aviation programs. Jeff resides in Portland, Maine.
PIPER J-3 CUB APPROACHING RUNWAY WITH CROSSWIND FROM LEFT

AND CRAB TOWARD THE WIND
After a sidebar discussion of adverse yaw, which the authors

suggest is not really simulated in FSX, this section explains
how to make a sideslip crosswind approach. In this maneuver, you
use ailerons to bank toward the wind and hold your track to the
runway, while using rudder to point the nose to the runway. This
is uncoordinated flight, and the ball will be out of center in the
inclinometer. Think of it this way: with ailerons positioned to bank
the aircraft to the left, the aircraft is slipping sideways on a blanket of
air under the aircraft, but if banked to the left, the aircraft should turn
left, so right rudder must be added to counteract the turn and point the
aircraft to the runway. The accompanying image, similar to Figure
3-18 in the book, shows the aircraft banked to the left, nose pointed to
the runway, and pitched down for the approach.
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Kevin Lane-Cummings is a pilot, flight instructor, educator, and

technical communication professional. He has worked for aerospace
mega-corporations, science museums, flight schools, public TV
stations, and Internet publishers. Kevin lives in Seattle, Washington.
Final Thoughts
I highly recommend this book for:
Student pilots, who can coordinate working though the book contents
in FSX with their flight instructor and applicable training syllabus
Real pilots, who can experience well organized and rich refresher
training using FSX
Flight simulator pilots, who will learn a great deal more about real
flying than theyve likely experienced in years of simming
Though it would require a huge programming effort, preparing
coordinated lessons with the new mission system would be a great
addition to this book or a future Flight Simulator-coordinated training
program. The book is available from selected flight sim retailers or can
be ordered in from any good book store. It retails for US$29.95. 4
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:07 PM
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Creating a glass cockpit display
for the home-built simulator with PMDG software
BY GWYN PERRETT
MY GROWING BOEING,
THREE YEARS IN THE MAKING AND NEARLY FINISHED!
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he building of a cockpit simulator is by no

means an easy task. It consumes an enormous
amount of time, patience and money to create
that sacred space where no wives dare to venture!
Time seems irrelevant when you are happily head
down making the next part at the work bench
avoiding real issues in the overgrown garden.
Patience is the familys department as you certainly
need a good support crew under the roof. Money, now
thats the hard one. How do we justify the investment
of many thousands of dollars to fill a room in the
house with the pointy end of an aeroplane? Well
somehow I managed to get away with it. By taking
a few economic short cuts here and there I now own
my own Boeing cockpit simulator, thank you dearest!
What follows is one of those short cuts...
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:10 PM
Three years ago when I decided to build my toy, I joined the

builders at www.mycockpit.org I soon became aware that the
cockpit software created by the team from Project Magenta,
was generally considered the best solution for recreating the
glass cockpit displays for my 737 simulator. This is probably
still the case today as it is truly amazing software and used by
many cockpit builders. The price of buying the PM software
and networking another two computers required to run it, put it
beyond my budget and so I set about finding a cheaper solution.
That solution arrived when I was advised by another local cockpit
builder that I could combine the Boeing 737NG software from
PMDG with multiple monitors on a single PC. This tutorial
describes how we made it work to create a relatively cheap and
yet very reliable glass cockpit simulator.
A quick review on the PMDG 2D cockpit

I had been using PMDG 737 software for quite some time and
I was very impressed with it as a product as Im sure many of us
are. It has a high level of sophistication well beyond the default
aircraft and the Open GL instrument displays make it ideal for
use in a cockpit simulator. The official description of Open GL
is computer gobbledegook way over my head but from I worked
out, it means you can stretch the size of an Open GL window
to any size and the clarity of the image will remain - there is no
loss of quality due to the 3D imaging technology. On the PMDG
2D panel, the Attitude, Navigation and EICAS gauges can be
clicked on which undocks them from the panel. They can then
be stretched to any size giving the user an instant zoom effect.
This is handy for the desktop pilot as the instruments appear
quite small on the average single desktop monitor. The PMDG
instruments can be repositioned anywhere on the desktop which is
how they can be utilized by cockpit builders.
What you will need

The change to multiple monitors obviously incurs some
expense but the stunning results make it so worthwhile. It was
about two years ago when I bought 3 used 17inch CRT monitors
to sit behind my Main Instrument panel. I also purchased a used
Matrox Parhelia 128mg Triple head video card and installed it
in my ageing 2.8ghz computer. I had a ready setup back then for
under AUD$400. Unfortunately, this configuration still lingers
in my simulators PC today and it is well overdue for a better
and faster system. I will upgrade soon to faster dual core system
fitted with an 8800GTS video card. Combined with the Matrox
Triplehead2Go, this makes a great surround gaming PC. The
Matrox Triplehead2Go device retails for just under US$300.
THE OPEN GL GAUGES FROM THE PMDG 737NG

UNDOCKED FROM THE PANEL
PMDG NAVIGATION AND ATTITUDE GAUGES

MOVED TO MONITOR 2 AND RESIZED
How to set up the desktop display area

The description of my current PC configuration remains relevant
today, as my old Matrox Parhelia video card was the predecessor to
the Triplehead2Go device and they operate in a similar fashion. Both
devices allow you to expand your desktop display area to three times
the normal width by altering the resolution. With three monitors side
by side plugged in, the resolution can be increased from the normally
used 1024x768 to 3072x768. (Higher resolutions are available but
this was the setting that I achieved the best results with). Many people
use multiple monitor configurations for an enhanced surround gaming
experience or a variety of work applications. See detail of the Matrox
TH2GO at www.matrox.com
Set up your 3 monitors on the TH2GO or Parhelia video card
and arrange the monitors 1, 2 and 3 from left to right. The Matrox
software allows you to reconfigure the order without unplugging
the monitor leads. When I first switched the resolution to Stretched
Mode, the three monitors came to life with my desktop picture
stretched across all three monitors but the icons remained on monitor
1. The mouse travels across the 3 monitors as if it were a single
picture and I increased mouse pointer speed a little to help with
getting it across over 3 feet of desktop.
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makes it a lot easier to achieve good results without straying too far
from the original aircraft design. I find that most people who visit my
simulator wouldnt know what a real 737 cockpit looks like anyway!
THE MAIN IMAGE IS REAR PROJECTED FROM THE ON FEED 1
When using Microsoft Flight simulator across multiple monitors,

it is necessary to use it in windowed mode to allow undocking
of windows. You have to forget the old Alt+Enter for the bigger
picture. When you have got your three monitors working and
configured correctly, start up the flight simulator software. I am still
using FS2004 so will describe the process that applies to FS2004
only. FSX should be the same although PMDGs 737NGX is not
ready for release at the time of writing. The new 737 is rumored
to have greater interface capabilities with the software designers
apparently taking aboard some of the needs of cockpit builders. I
hope this turns out to be true as the lack of being able to interface
certain functions, especially with regard to the overhead panel is a
frustration widely discussed in many FS forums.
THE EICAS DISPLAY ON MONITOR 3
Configuring the monitors
Designing the Main Instrument Panel

At this point I think I should make a note about designing your
MIP. There are some practical considerations to take on board
before cutting out the square instrument apertures. Using the available
display area on a typical 17inch monitor, I had to work out the size of
the squares to be cut out on the MIP for the instrument displays. With
the piece of rib between the Attitude and Navigation displays being
25mm (1 inch) wide, the remaining screen area would allow for the
square instrument gauges to be stretched to 145mm x 145mm. My MIP
is about 85% of the full scale Boeing but the cut outs are to suit the
monitors, not the Boeing drawings I have. If you intend to use larger
monitors behind the MIP then obviously larger instrument apertures can
be cut out.
My centre EICAS cut out is a little larger at 180mm square. This is
not strictly as per Boeing but practical due to the available screen area
on the center monitor. Trying to build an exact replica of an aircraft can
lead to many difficulties so the occasional compromise here and there
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cpm1109.indd 54
The main monitor, number 1 feed is plugged into the projector to

provide the forward view. One thing I discovered after setting up the
PMDG displays and completing my roof structure is that a 737 pilot
doesnt really have the huge panoramic front view that I imagined.
During a visit to a real 737NG cockpit earlier this year with fellow
CP writer, Bill Smith, we were both surprised by how small an area
the pilots have to look forward. In fact, the vertical height of the
windscreen is only about 250mm (10inches) - sitting in the captains
seat, you have the impression of looking through a narrow slot and my
simulator now has the same perspective. I only see about one third of
the projected image. This lead to difficulties using the PMDG pop-up
Radio, FMC, O/H, Throttle quad and ATC windows etc. I have buttons
on my panels that pop these windows up on the main view temporarily
for making adjustments and these had become too hard to view.
The quick and easy solution was to add a 19inch monitor off to the
left of my seat. The feed to the projector now goes through a splitter/
amplifier and the forward view is duplicated off to the side. All of the
temporary pop up windows are now easy to view with a quick look
to the left. Monitor 2 goes behind the MIP in front of the Captain and
monitor 3 is for the EICAS in the ccenter. If your simulator is full width
and full dual control like mine, another splitter/amplifier is linked to
the monitor 2 feed and another monitor sits behind the MIP on the First
Officers side. These show the same Navigation and Attitude displays
for both pilots. This varies slightly from the usual Boeing display
arrangement but is still highly effective and very useable.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:18 PM
A note on splitter/amplifiers the same picture duplicating effect

can be achieved using a simple VGA Ysplitter lead, but there can
be a slight deterioration on picture quality. Splitter/amplifiers achieve
better results.
Resizing and saving the windows

I remember the day of setting up these windows as the birth of
my sim. To see the MIP spring to life for the first time was a long
awaited moment!
Start Flight Simulator in windowed mode and select your start
up airport.
Load the PMDG 737 (non virtual cockpit, it isnt required). I use
the 800 model. The main FS window will be stretched and distorted
3 times normal width. Grab the right hand edge of the scenery
(sky) window and drag it left until it is only viewable on monitor
1/projector. You have to also do this with the PMDG 2D panel.
Click and drag the left edge of the panel until it is only displayed on
monitor one. It will return to normal appearance. Monitors 2 and 3
will now appear to be blank. Now the fun bit. Pop out the Open GL
Attitude gauge, near the center top of the instrument you will be able
to click and drag it to the right and place it in the correct position, top
right hand corner of the MIP cut-out on monitor 2. Click and drag
the bottom left hand corner of the Attitude gauge to the bottom left
of the panel square and there you have it, one gauge installed. Repeat
the procedure to install the Navigation display and then the EICAS is
placed on monitor 3.
Next, the ancillary windows need to be sized on the main forward
view for ease of use. Set up your radio, FMC and throttle windows
etc, in convenient places. The ATC text is fine across the top of the
screen as it cant be seen from the pilots view point.
Saving the window configuration

Once your new airliner is alive and breathing fire you will need to
save the flight. I usually save the flight as PMDG Set Up. This will
save all of the window resizing and positions. They will be correct the
next time you start this flight. You will have to load this flight every
start up before changing to a different airport.
Thats about all there is to it - plug n play! With the CP Flight
Mode Control Panel and EFIS units driving the PMDG software, this
setup is an extremely reliable and cost effective glass cockpit solution
for the single computer system. 4
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Winning In TheHow
Air to gain the advantage
4
BY JOHN ACHOR
his is the first of two combat articles articles

where I will discuss the fundamentals of aerial
combat in flight simulators to help you gain
the advantage over computer or human players!
This is the ultimate sight picture you are looking for
Part I - Basics
A Brief History of Air Combat
Even the names have changed. I remember the acronym ACM,
which stood for Air Combat Maneuvering when I did a stint in
fighters. Now its Basic Flight Maneuvers (BFM). No matter what
you call it, many of the essentials remain the same: The guy you
dont see is the one who will kill you. (Brig. Gen. Robin Olds) and
speed is life (author unknown). Those axioms held true on the day
they were uttered... and they will no doubt remain truisms as long as
fighter pilots hurl themselves through the sky in an attempt to best
their adversaries.
BFM dates back to the days of wood and wire in World War I and
continued through WWII. BFM or ACM for jet fighters originated
during the Korean Conflict almost by accident. Major (later Maj.
Gen.) Boots Blesse, along with some squadron mates, created a
monograph describing jet maneuvers and tactics for their F-86 Saber
Jets as they encountered MiG-15s. They called their epistle, No
Guts, No Glory. The U.S. Air Force liked the ideas so much, they
classified the document. I dont remember whether it was classified in
the mid 1950s when I read it, but it was declassified by the late 50s.
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CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:27 PM
It incorporated previous ideas along with tactics that seemed to work

for them in their encounters with MiGs along the Yalu River. These
strategies were designed to put you on your adversarys tail for a guns
kill since six .50 caliber machine guns were the weapons of choice in
that day.
What I want to do here is share ideas that seem to work for me in
combat simulators for guns-only duals. BVR (Beyond Visual Range)
and missile engagements are another ball game. After Korea, the
designers thought that guns-only fights were a thing of the past. The
McDonnell-Douglas F-4 Phantom did not have a gun until the C
model, and then a Vulcan cannon was mounted as an external pod
hung on the centerline weapons hard point. Guns-only hassles can
be some of the most fun, so strap on your fighter and lets go kill
something.
First, well discuss real-life maneuvers. Im going to assume you
know many of the basics, and wont go into minute detail. Then well
look at situational awareness and the difference between combat flight
simulators and the real cockpit where you feel the Gs pulling your
guts. Finally, Ill go over a number of innovations that work for me.
Know Your Bird and the Basics

In real-life, youd better know your aircraft and the basics
combat in a flight sim is no different. In a 1v1 (means one versus
one and is pronounced 1 vee 1), similar aircraft duel, knowledge
is a tremendous advantage. I was logging flying time in the back
seat of a T-28 Trojan and I wasnt current in the bird. My pilot and
another local jock agreed to meet in the air for some informal and
illegal ACM. My pilot jumped the other T-28 and we ended up in a
Lufbery Circle trying to gain an advantage and pull lead on the other.
The second pilot seemed to be shoving up the throttle in an attempt to
get around the circle faster. Keep in mind: if you aint gainin, it aint
working.
If youre not cutting down the distance to the other guys Six,
youre doing something wrong. After a couple of turns around the old
merry-go-round, I asked my pilot for the stick. I kept it in a tight bank
as I eased off on the throttle and when speed permitted, I dropped
some flaps. Increased lift from flaps and the slower airspeed resulted
in a much tighter turning radius. In less than a 360, we were camped
on the other birds tail.
In a 1v1, dissimilar aircraft hassle, that may not work. In most
fighters, you dont want to get into a turning knife fight with the F16 Falcon. Corner Velocity (Vc, pronounced Vee sub c) is the best
turning speed compensated for altitude, etc. If the other guy knows
his Vc and you dont, hell be staring up your tail pipe before you
know it. Lets cover some of the flight maneuvers you should know to
stay up with your opponent.
Basic Combat Maneuvers

The LUFBERY CIRCLE is named for Raul Lufbery, a pilot in the
Lafayette Escadrille during World War I. Its a level, continuous turn
in the horizontal plane. Objective: turn tighter, gain the advantage and
pull lead on the opponent
for a guns kill. Its become
a defensive ploy, so if you
find yourself in one today
- look for a way out, a way
to disengage.
The LOOP is a vertical turn. Variations are can be flown at any
angle from the vertical to the horizontal where it becomes a Lufbery.
CUBAN EIGHT - picture a figure 8 lying on its side vertically

and the maneuver is flown in the vertical plane. Objective: precision
practice maneuver. With enough airspeed to come over the top, start a
pull up as if to fly a loop. Coming over the top, continue pulling until
you are 45 degrees nose down inverted. Roll 180 degrees to upright,
still nose down. At the bottom, begin a pull up to complete the second
half of the maneuver. When you complete the Cuban Eight you
should be heading the same direction as when you started. To use the
maneuver as a high speed course reversal,
fly only half the Cuban Eight - youre
heading will be 180 degrees from your
initial heading.
The IMMELMAN (named after Max Immelman, a WWI German
fighter pilot) is a half-loop with a roll to upright at the top of the loop
heading the opposite direction. Objective: another practice maneuver
as well as a way to reverse course albeit completing the maneuver
with a low airspeed on top. I remember watching
Bob Hoover, North American Aviation test
pilot, perform a double Immelman in his F-86.
He completed the first one, and as soon as he
rolled upright he began the pull for the second
Immelman. Better have a bunch of airspeed at the
start, and be a smooth stick to perform that one.
SPLIT-S is the opposite of the Immelman.
While straight and level roll inverted and suck
the stick back into your lap. Objective: reverse
course with a high speed get-away. Be sure you
have enough altitude to execute the maneuver.
Otherwise, you become a black spot on the
country side.
BARREL ROLL - a wide 360 degree roll in the vertical plane.
Picture a vertical circle ahead of you with a dot in the center and roll
your nose around the circumference of the circle climbing during the
first half of the roll and descending during the second half. Objective:
another practice procedure and one way to kill an overshoot, which
well cover in the next installment.
SCISSORS - a series of reversing turns, in any plane vertical,
horizontal or somewhere in between. The turns will be about ten to
thirty degrees each direction. Objective: kill airspeed and slide behind
your opponent who is also in a scissors and trying to do the same
thing to you.
HIGH and LOW YO-YOs are designed to swap types of energy
and gain an advantage. The High Yo-Yo consists of a nose high
rolling turn toward the enemy with the intent to exchange airspeed for
altitude advantage and avoid on overshoot. The Low Yo-Yo takes the
opposite tack it is a nose low turn toward the enemy to exchange
altitude for airspeed and can be used when additional speed is needed
to maintain the pursuit curve.
For a basic or refresher course in BCM, try one of these books:
Fighter Combat Tactics and Maneuvering by Robert Shaw,
Aircraft versus Aircraft by Norman Franks or The Art of the Kill
by Pete Bononni. That last one came packaged with Falcon 3.0 by
Spectrum Holobyte (Microprose / Hasbro) and I think its out of print,
however used copies are available.
More on Energy
Energy can be reduced to two elements, speed and altitude. You
need at least one of them to have the advantage and stay alive. If you
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are super lucky, you may have both, but generally youll have only
one. You need to recognize which advantage you have, what will
work best against your opponent at this instant, and how to swap
one for the other if necessary. You can trade speed for altitude with a
zoom climb; you gain altitude but you bleed off airspeed unless you
have a high thrust to weight ratio bird.
I remember an F-102 driver telling me about being bounced by an
F-104 at about twenty thousand feet. The F-104 was a plane with high
thrust to weight ratio it could accelerate going straight up. The F102 pilot used his high lift delta wing to turn inside the F-104. But, in
his words, Every time I got close to pulling lead on him, hed punch
in the burner and go up to about forty grand. From there, he could
make strafing runs on me.
Conversely, if you have an altitude advantage, you can covert that
to speed by diving. Now with knowledge of some of the basics we
can apply them to situational awareness.
Gaining the Advantage

How does all this help? Knowledge is power and advantage. It may
also help to check out how much the enemy knows and how well he
puts it to use.
Sometimes the AI (Artificial Intelligence) enemy pilots arent too
bright. I remember reading about that fact in Falcon 3.0 (F-16). I
wasnt using the Unlimited Weapons setting and Id thrown all my
missiles into empty air, hosed away with the cannon till it was empty
and I was still camped on this guys Six what next? If I disengage,
hes likely to get a clean shot at me. All he had to do was guess that
Im weaponless and he can head for home without fear of reprisal. I
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decided to test this AI pilots acumen. I was on his Six, so I camped

out there he jinked, dove, climbed and Im still there. I was trying
to see if I could run him out of fuel. I did, and when he flamed out, he
became another Lawn Dart.
You can practice 1v1 guns-only combat in your own combat flight
simulator. Look for the Mission Builder (or a similar section) and
put yourself into your favorite fighter. Choose an opponent: pick his
aircraft and a skill level usually called Rookie, Veteran, Ace, etc.
Might as well take it easy on yourself. Select the easiest opponent
until your own skills improve. Dont forget to put a check (tic) mark
in the box for Guns Only. If you dont, the bad-guy will most
likely pop you with a missile before you gain the advantage. When
you put it altogether, the payoff comes when you get an Ace in your
gun sights and you see the smoke pouring from an engine like this
Heinkle 111 (screenshot from IL-2 Sturmovik: 1946 by Ubisoft).
Next time in Part II, we will go deeper into situational awareness,
more maneuvers that put you at your enemies six-oclock position
and compare real-life to the flight simulator.
Authors Note: Brig. Gen. Robin Olds died on June 14, 2007 at
the age of 84. Olds was a double-Ace in WWII shooting down 12
enemy aircraft while flying P-38s and P51s. During the Vietnam War,
he commanded the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing and planned Operation
Bolo. In January 1967, Olds led flights of F-4 Phantoms disguised
as F-105 fighter bombers by flying their flight profiles and using their
call signs and typical radio chatter. They lured the MiGs out. Olds
shot down two MiGs while his men accounted for another five
seven in a single day. Gen. Olds later shot down two additional MiGs
and became a triple-Ace spanning two eras of aerial combat. 4
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:28 PM
Flying Green with Farmboyzim

BY HAROLD ZIMMER
lying Green with Farmboyzim is

something new, offering a bit of an
insight into regions around the globe that
you may not have visited yet within MSFS. If you
have visited these areas already, maybe youll see
something that you missed.
Pilots, and I include sim pilots in this as well, see things
very differently than your average person. Ever wonder why
most astronauts come back to terra firma with a deeper sense of
appreciation for good old Earth? Its because they see things in
a very unique and different perspective. From that high up in the
atmosphere, the views are awe inspiring, and in a way, you get the
big picture, quite literally. Commercial and Private Pilots also get
a wider view of whats going on out there in the world. Its still a great
view, even at 20,000 feet! That same appreciation can be found while
exploring the simulated world within MSFS. Granted, you wont be
floating in a zero G environment, or sitting shoulder to shoulder with
your passenger in the front seat, but I think you can still get a sense of
what great and wondrous things there are to see in this great big world
of ours (even if it is virtual!).
The Flying Green articles will focus on an area of our planet that is
either in need of protection, endangered, or making a comeback. There
really is no excuse for looking the other way when it comes to the
matters of our home. The Tongass National Park and Glacier Bay areas
are two of these areas that are certainly worth a look, and our attention.
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PADS DEHAVILLAND TURBO BEAVER MK III
DEPARTING KETCHIKAN, ALASKA, (PAKT)
WHERE ON EARTH?
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LOADS OF ROOM TO LAND A FLOAT PLANE!
THE FOUR PLUS HOUR FLIGHT IN THE TONGASS REGION
WRANGELL AIRPORT, (PAWG)
EXCELLENT COASTAL SCENERY
CPM. V11I09
FLYING OVER PETERSBURG AIRPORT, (PAPG)
8/14/2007 10:33:29 PM
NO BEACH PARTIES THERE!
COMING UP ON JUNEAU, AK (PAJN)
OFF THE COAST, NORTH OF SITKA
A SMOOTH APPROACH!
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APPROACH AT SITKA
A VERY DIVERSE COASTLINE
WHEW! FINALLY, SITKA, ALASKA!
JUNEAU INTERNATIONAL OFFERS A FLOAT PLANE

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THE CITY OF JUNEAU, ALASKA
NOT ENOUGH SNOW FOR SKIINGYET!
GLACIERS TO THE RIGHT OF ME
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AHHH! HERES THE SNOW!
IMAGINE NO ICE IN THE VALLEYS
THE EDGE OF THE ICE
SOARING LIKE A BIRD!
COMING OUT OF THE INLAND AREA
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:41 PM
THAT SUN FEELS GOOD!
DO FISH GET COLD?
THATS A LOT OF ICE TO BE MELTING!
A VIEW INLAND FROM THE FRONT SEAT
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WISH I HAD MY CANOE!
MAKING THE TURN SOUTH AT YAKUTAT, ALASKA (PAYA)
SOUTH ALONG THE COAST
FLIGHT PLAN FROM AOPA
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On the coast of Alaska, in an area that encompasses the cities of

Yakutat, Ketchikan, and Juneau, and the beautiful Glacier Bay, is the
Tongass National Forest. It is one of the rarest forests on earth, and is
called a Coastal Temperate Rain Forest.
A Rain Forest in Alaska? Yep, you read it right. It is home to an
abundance of wildlife, from grizzly bears to whales, to wolves. The
mountains, which are part of the highest coastal mountain range in the
world, trap the moisture rolling in from the Pacific, and collecting up
to 200 inches of rain a year. Yes, I think we can officially call it a Rain
Forest!
The trees in this region range in age from 200 to 700 years old,
with some growing as old as 1,000 years. A very long, long, long time
ago, this forest stretched all the way from the California Redwoods up
to the Gulf of Alaska. The Tongass National Forest is what remains of
this ancient stretch of forest.
Roughly a million acres of this old-growth forest has been lost to
clear cut logging and road construction over the last 50 years.
Experts estimate that over two-thirds of the most pristine trees have
been logged out of the region. Since the 1950s, when the logging
started, this forest not only has the claim of being an extremely biodiverse region, but it also is one of the most heavily clear-cut regions
in the land.
The Roadless Area Conservation Rule was enacted in 2001 after
hundreds of public meetings. The Roadless Rule protected more
than 58 million acres of our nations most pristine land from road
building and commercial development.
Unfortunately, the current administration began dismantling the
rule, despite a campaign promise to the contrary. They repeatedly
delayed implementation of the Roadless Rule. On December 23,
2003, it was announced that the Tongass National Forest was
temporarily exempt from the rule, stripping protection for over half
the forest.
Six months later, they, the government, unveiled a proposal to
replace the Roadless Rule with a state petition process that would
force governors to petition the federal government for reinstatement.
Basically, more paper shuffling.
Now folks, I just want to interrupt here for a moment and say
that this is NOT a political article! Hence, no names mentioned,
(but I think you can figure it out!). I just call em as I see em! The
comments made do not reflect those of the magazine or anyone else,
just yours truly. Yes, I suppose you could call me a tree-hugger of
sorts! I remember one camping trip and too much whiskey, a long
time ago...but I digress... Back to the forest.
A federal judge in California reinstated nearly all of the previous
coverage of the Roadless Rule. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Laporte
of the U.S. District Court in San Francisco reinstated the rule, thereby
throwing out the proposed Roadless petition plan.
Approximately 2.5 million Americans commented on the Roadless
Rule after it was proposed in 1998. More than 95 percent of these
people supported the proposed ban on new road building in our
largest tracts of undeveloped forest. So I think people DO care!
The flight I took to see as much of this region in one fairly long trip
was from Ketchikan, AK (PAKT) to Rocky Gutierrez Airport, Sitka,
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AK (PASI) via Wrangell (PAWG), Petersburg, AK (PAPG), Juneau

Intl, AK (PAJN), and finally, Yakutat, AK (PAYA), then on to Sitka. It
took a full tank of go juice (and coffee) and over four and a half hours
to complete, as I strayed here and there along the route. It was hard
not to! If you stick to the course, its approximately 577.43 miles,
with an estimated ETE of 4 hours and 17 minutes, and youll burn up
most of your tank of fuel. I think I had about 15 gallons or so left at
the end of the hop. Also, for those of you who fly by other means than
GPS, there are plenty of VORs, NDBs and Intersections available so
get your charts out and dust them off. By the way, Id like to mention
that I used the excellent Flight Planner provided by the AOPA with
membership. A great organization to join, even for us simmers!
The aircraft model that I used for my flight was the outstanding
DeHavilland Turbo Mk III. It has all the capabilities of the Beaver,
but with Turbo Power. Premier Aircraft Design (PAD), the winners
of loads of awards for their contributions to the Freeware world,
built this model with the same detail and care that goes into all their
recreations. It is truly a beauty of an aircraft. She also comes in a
float version as well, with various paints for all you water monkeys
out there. The Tongass region is well suited for float planes, as you
will never run out of bodies of water to land on here. I highly suggest
you have a look over at PAD, download what they have that appeals
to you, and get in the air! Bush Pilots will think they died and went
to airplane heaven when they see what is offered for FREE! Thanks
gang for the excellent models and the contributions to simming that
you have made over the years. Keep up the outstanding work.
If you do not already have it, scoot over to your favorite flight
sim site and do a search for Holger Sandmanns freeware (hard
to believe) scenery enhancement of the Glacier Bay area. WOW!
What a package. Holger has put together an amazing scenery
enhancement for this area, and what youll see is jaw dropping
good! Mine hit the keyboard as I was sitting close to the screen.
He has added beautiful glaciers that sweep down into bays all
over the area, as well as improved terrain features like waterways,
mountains, and wide open ice fields. Added also are objects
throughout like cabins, ferries, birds, etc. An absolutely astounding
package for free. You will not be disappointed! By the way, in the
July issue of Computer Pilot Magazine, you will find an excellent
interview with Holger, covering new projects that he and his team
are working on, and also how he finds the time to do all this. Thanks
very much Holger. Oh, and by the way, on the risk of sounding
greedy, can we have more please?
I utilized a GPS course to follow for this flight. For those of you
who are new to simming, it is extremely easy to plan a flight with
MSFS 2004 or FSX. I wont get into the details of the procedure
here, but basically, all you have to do is choose your departure
airport and your destination airport in the flight planner, click on
direct route, click find route, go to the map in the planner, and
then put the mouse cursor over the flight path line, click, hold,
and drag to whatever spot you wish. In this case, each waypoint
was an airfield. Any spot will do though, as this is a very flexible
tool. Experiment, I dont think you can break it? Accept the plan,
load her up, and take to the wild blue! Heres a tiny hint for you
while flying using a GPS route, especially in this type of terrain...
Click on the TERR (Terrain) button on the GPS and you will see a
representation of the terrain features on the GPS screen. If youre
not sticking strictly to the flight plan, it will give you a rough idea
of where you should be if you choose NOT to smack into the side
of that mountain 10 miles ahead. It wont give you specifics as to
elevation, but its good to know whats out there up ahead.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:53 PM
I mentioned earlier in the article that the Tongass area is considered

a rain forest. These large tracks of forested land are literally the
lungs of our planet. The problems that clear cutting of forests brings,
without responsible management and replanting are numerous and
range from destruction of watersheds to destruction of wildlife. As
time advances however, more and more people are becoming aware
of these situations, and are now looking at them in a new light.
As with the Glacier Bay region, if you hadnt heard already, we are
warming up a bit, and the melting of the glaciers in the northern as
well as the southern hemispheres is advancing at an alarming pace.
Heck, even governments are starting to agree with the scientists! Its
obvious what will happen when these great big ice cubes melt down.
Own any coast side property? Hmmm
All of us have got to do our part to try to make a difference. Each
one of you simmers out there, when you fly over an area such as the
Tongass area, if you have the time, try to find out a bit about the area,
and perhaps pass that knowledge on to someone else. When I show
people some of the screen shots of the areas that I fly in, most did not
really have a sense of just what they were like virtually up close,
if you will. Not many, for example really knew about the peril that
the Tongass Region was in, but enough did to make a difference, and
thats what counts.
The accompanying screen shots are of the flight I mentioned earlier.
As you can see, the area is quite unique, and the terrain is nothing
short of spectacular. You will fly over everything from forested
islands to snow capped mountains. While flying over the Glacier
Bay National Park, it is easy to see where the name comes from.
The Glacier Bay area is situated in the northern part of the Tongass
National Park, south of Yakutat (PAYA) and north of Sitka (PASI).
This is a Must See area and if you are into Bush Flying, the odds
are good that you are already familiar with the area and the challenges
and beauty it offers.
Next time we will trot on over to Greenland and take a look for
ourselves at just whats happening to even more of our glaciers, and
in particular, the ice caps.
Have fun and pass the word, take care of Mother Earth,
and stay Green! 4
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Sim Cockpit Systems Review

BY ROGER CURTISS
ne of the keys to enjoying flight simulation

is to attempt to immerse oneself as much as
possible in the experience in order to block
out the external stimuli that tend to remind you of the
fact that you are indeed seated in front of a computer
and not actually in the cockpit of a moving aircraft.
The fidelity of the scenery, flight models and hardware available
go a long way toward helping to achieve that goal and any other
enhancements that permit one to concentrate on the instrument panel
display or the scenery greatly add to the environment.
Such amenities as a large monitor or multiple monitors serve

to focus ones attention on the immediate area and realistic flight
controllers and instrument modules are a huge plus. The only
drawback to all of these goodies is their cumulative price tags. While
no one will dispute the value and general cool factor of having a
few GoFlight modules to allow for button pushing and knob turning
instead of mouse clicks or keyboard presses, a full setup is going
to result in over $1,000.00 exiting your pocket. While their value
as enhancements is unquestioned, the cost may be more than many
can afford and these enhancements do not actively contribute to
increasing the reality of the visual aspects of the flight thus arguably
rendering them to be indulgences; albeit very nice ones.
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For those who seek to improve the experience (and that, I would
venture to say, would include a fair percentage of all flight simulation
pilots and this particular magazines entire readership) but who may
be a bit more monetarily-challenged, there is an option to considerthe Sim Cockpit System. This most impressive piece of hardware
offers a definite opportunity to block out the external environment
and focus on the flying in a bit more affordable fashion
What it is
The Sim Cockpit System (SCS) was designed by Kurt Gamnig
who, in addition to being a flight simulator user, has logged over
21,000 hours of flight time as an instructor, charter, corporate and
airline pilot. With his vast experience, Gamnig recognized the
potential of flight simulation to transcend mere entertainment and its
utility for training and proficiency. Thus the Sim Cockpit System was
born as a relatively economical way to present the instrumentation
and controls to the pilot in a realistic manner. Of course, affordability
is a relative concept and this unit will still set you back $399.00 (a
reduced price Gamnig instituted recently) so it is probably not the
sort of item to be purchased on a whim. That being said, if you are a
serious flight simmer the SCS is definitely worth consideration as it
offers to enhance the experience in a way that few products short of a
fully replicated cockpit are capable of achieving.
Computer Pilot Magazine V11I09
8/14/2007 10:33:55 PM
REVIEW
The SCS provides a platform upon which the pilot can mount
flight equipment. What you get is an enclosure mimicking the
left seat position in a cockpit within which monitors can be
strategically placed to show instrument representations in their
proper positions. If a switch is located on the overhead panel,
look up- that panel is displayed on the cockpit ceiling. The
throttle quadrant is on your right side with engine instrumentation
displays portrayed behind it replicating a center display area. This
allows for expandability of functions as dictated by the flight
simmers budget.
The outside view can be projected onto a screen in front of the
cockpit windows affording a much greater peripheral view than is
attainable from a single monitor in the cockpit. As stated earlier,
the system provides the platform to enable these features; SCS
does not come equipped with the flight hardware or the electronic
equipment- the monitors or the projection system- these are left to
the owners preference and budget. However, the system is also
designed to be modular and will operate with less than the full
complement of equipment so that users can add functionality as
budgets allow.
The unit is shipped in two large cartons and they contain all
of the 46 structural pieces and the 181 screws, nuts and washers
needed for construction. Assembly is accomplished with just a
Phillips screwdriver and an adjustable wrench, both of which are
also provided.
The unit is very well constructed and is composed of a solid
metal frame with wood platforms for the work surfaces and
the shell. All of the structural parts are cleanly and precision
machined and the wood surfaces feature countersunk screw holes
to allow for a smooth finish. The workmanship is outstanding
and the instruction manual is comprehensive in detailing what
each component is, where it should be located and how assembly
should proceed.
1. THE CARTONS THE SYSTEM WAS SHIPPED IN
One should take heed to assemble the unit in the room where
it will be situated for use as it quickly grows into a shape that
proves to be unwieldy for maneuvering around corners or
through doorways or so I surmise its not as if this happened
to me! The enclosure stands over 57 tall and is 27 long and
49 wide.
The sheer impressive size of the unit may also be a potential
drawback. There must be sufficient floor space to allow
placement of the SCS in addition to a standard computer setup.
The SCS is designed and intended to be used strictly as a flight
simulator and may not be particularly utile as a desktop in that the
computer keyboard resides on a side table which may be less than
optimum for intensive use. Therefore, it pretty much requires a
dedicated computer monitor setup devoted to flight sim use which
might make it beyond the means of many potential users due to
limitations in available computer hardware or floor space to allow
placement of more than one computer station.
2. CONTENTS OF THE SECOND CARTON
To realize the full benefit of the SCS there is a need for the
following equipment:
Control yoke or joystick

Throttle quadrant
Rudder pedals
3 LCD monitors
Rear projector
3. SIMPLY INSERT FLAP A INTO SLOT B...ETC
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4. THE BASIC FRAME
5. AT THIS STAGE OF CONSTRUCTION YOU PRETTY MUCH NEED TO

HAVE THE UNIT IN THE ROOM YOU WANT IT TO STAY IN
7. I USED A 20 INCH MONITOR BUT A 22 OR 24 WOULD BE BETTER
8. UNIT WITH MAIN MONITOR. NOTE THE COVER ON

THE OVERHEAD MONITOR CUTOUT
9. YOKE, THROTTLE QUADRANT, MOUSE AND KEYBOARD IN POSITION
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6. ALL OF THE WALLS AND PLATFORMS IN PLACE
10. SIDESTICK ARRANGEMENT INSTEAD OFCPM.

YOKE FOR YOU AIRBUS AFFICIENADOS
V11I09
8/14/2007 10:34:04 PM
I doubt that most flight simmers have all of these items on hand (I
did not have one LCD monitor-much less 3) thus these requirements
indicate an additional expense to acquire them but the modular
nature of the system allows for such incremental construction.
The SCS is definitely intended to be used by the serious flight
simmer and fully equipping it will require an outlay of close to
$2,000.00 but the result will be a configuration that offers fidelity
equaled or surpassed only by home cockpits costing many times
that amount.
The Experience
11. SCS WITH JOYSTICK SETUP
The most basic difference and most marked enhancement will be

realized by making the investment in the rear projector system in
order to display the external scenery outside of the window frames.
It is difficult to quantify how dramatic a change it is to have the
instrument panel displayed below an actual glareshield and the
external view a few degrees higher and only visible outside the
cockpit window structure but it is considerable. It takes only a slight
head movement to transition between the two displays but that
almost subtle difference has a tremendous effect on how the flight is
experienced and adds a sense of realism that is huge. You physically
have to look outside the cockpit in order to look outside the cockpit.
Viewing the instrument display requires a shift downward in eye
position and this focus on the instrument panel takes the exterior
view out of the scan pattern. This is the closest simulation I have
experienced of the actual sense of piloting an aircraft strictly by
instruments and then having to refocus in order to transition to the
outside view. This is precisely the skill set needed in an instrument
approach scenario and that transition from instruments to a view of
the runway can be somewhat disorienting at times. The SCS offers
an excellent training aid to develop this skill.
This perceptual transition greatly intensifies the fidelity of the
simulation and may be the single most significant enhancement of
the SCS.
The SCS is also unique in the area of melding flight hardware
with monitor images in its use of the cockpit enclosure instead of
merely a frame as other products offer. The addition of side walls
and their relatively considerable size serves well the desired effect
of isolating the pilot from the room and superbly forces the pilot to
focus only on aircraft operation as the only items in the pilots field
of view are related to the flight environment.
I first tested the system at the Avsim convention in September
2006. I flew the simulator while three people stood behind me
and monitored. While I could certainly hear them, there was a
palpable sense that I was removed from their discussion such was
the immersion provided by the cockpit environment. This was
dramatically different from other nearby demonstrations of tabletop
hardware and frame-only concepts that did not offer the same
degree of focus.
Conclusion
The Sim Cockpit System - www.simcockpitsystem.com - is
definitely an upper tier product. But it offers a dramatic improvement
to the simulation environment that justifies its cost, and as improved
software and hardware continue to enter the market, it provides a
stellar platform (literally) in which to enjoy the full potential of these
other products. It will require an investment from the purchaser but
any investment needs to be judged on the basis of its return and the
SCS scores very high in this area, thus justifying itself as a viable
candidate in what promises to be a growing segment of the genre.
Few products are capable of changing the very way flight simulation
is experienced this is one of them. 4
12. SCS WITH YOKE AND THROTTLE QUADRANT
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8/14/2007 10:34:32 PM
ROUNDROBIN ADVENTURE
BACK TO BASICS
BY AL PELLETIER
R
If you have undertaken previous Round
Robins, skip the next paragraph, jump right
in, and have fun. For those who are new
to this, Round Robins are published with
the intent of having Flight-Simmers fly,
look at the scenery, refresh our Geography,
practice our cross country navigation,
perform approaches at different airports
all over the world, and have some FUN.
In the message, you will be receiving info
like: airport departure and runway number,
VORs and NDBs enroute, two or three
middle airport destinations, for VFR or
INST approach, and back to your point
of departure (Round Robin). You will also
be given ILS and LOM freq., minimums,
procedures etc. and a little background
on the geography of the area. After you
fly a few of these, you will have a much
better command and understanding of the
different types of published procedures. You
will learn to handle a lot of information in
a very short time, while still maintaining
control of your aircraft..
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ound Robin adventure:

BACK TO BASICS. My
purpose for writing this
article was to take a trip back
in time and re-visit the original
Airports, VORs and NDBs from
BAOs (Bruce Artwick) Flight Sim
and Microsoft Flight Simulator 3.
It is my aim to take those of you, who

started in this hobby in the last 10 years,
back to an original flight sim experience.
As for the old timers it will be a trip back
in time.
My first experience with Flight Sim was
around 1983. At that time I had loaded
BAOs flight sim on a Commodore computer.
I had a monochrome monitor and just the
arrow keys for control. The only airplane
available was the Cessna 172 and the scenery
was restricted to the Chicago/Champaign,
Seattle and the San Francisco areas. The
sound was a distinctive put put put. Yet it
was amazing that computers could do this.
Todays technology was just a probably
unattainable dream. Little did we know!
My favorite trip was to fly down to the

University of Illinois, in simulated clouds
and bad weather, complete with the
lightning effects, then fly back to OHare
and then back to Meigs (the default
airport at the time). I realize that some of
you will say: Meigs is gone. In real life
that is true. But our friends at Microsoft
decided to leave it in FS2004 and FSX. I
think they did this purposely for old cronies
like me who might want to take a trip back
in time. Thanks for that!
Great add-ons for this flight:

(Most freeware files can be found at
www.flightsim.com or www.avsim.com)
Aircraft and Panel (Payware):

I was again spoiled by my good friend Louis
Betti at Dreamfleet with a complimentary
copy of the newly released Archer III. This
is by far the most advanced single engine
airplane, designed for FS2004, to this date.
No details were spared or overlooked.
The accuracy of the sounds, panel,
Aerodynamics and GPS system make this
trainer super accurate and realistic.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:34:34 PM
ROUND ROBIN ADVENTURE

This aircraft\simulator was designed as an
IFR trainer and involved hundreds of hours
of work and testing, and was accomplished
with the aid and inputs from pilots qualified
on this type. You can find out more at:
http://www.dreamfleet2000.com
SCENERY (Payware):
** Again I was spoiled by my good friend
Justin Tyme at FSGENESIS with awesome
textures for the USA and Canada www.fsgenisis.net
SCENERY (Freeware):
** Tons for scenery available for the Chicago
area at www.avsim.com and
www.flightsim.com
(A lot of notes regarding ATC will pertain
only to FS2002\FS2004\FS-X users)
May I suggest that you READ the route a
couple of times before starting out, so that
youll have the flight plan fairly clear in your
mind. Especially in a fast medium or large
jet aircraft, there isnt much time to spare and
definitely no room for errors.
The scenario and tasking for this exercise:
We are flying a pilot trainer from the
old Chicago Meigs airport down to the
University of Illinois, then to OHare and
back to Meigs. The aim is to re-create and
revisit the original airports, VORs and
NDBs from the earliest Flight Sim of the
early 1980s.
Round Robin Adventure:

CHICAGO Meigs Municipal
(KCGX >>> University Of
Illinois-Willard (KCMI) >>>
Chicagos OHare International
Airport (KORD) >>> MEIGS
(KCGX)
Approx total distance 290 nm.
NOTE: For the purpose of these exercises,
we will assume that we are receiving Radar
vectors to different VORs or ILS interception
points. In the Real world of today, aircraft
usually receive vectors to the interception
points, to ensure proper separation. Im also
assuming that you will have a good look at
the Approach plates for each segment.
One more note. If you are using ATC for take
off, taxi and landings, you might be given
different RWY or taxi way, depending on the
weather. You might even input the whole trip
in a FS flight plan and fly it that way.
BEGIN
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First leg:
CHICAGO Meigs (KCGX) >>>
CHAMPAIGN-URBANA/University
of Illinois (KCMI)
Approx 135 nm.
Select Chicago Meigs, RWY 36, under
USA airports.
Weather: I selected the standard major
thunderstorm under weather. I wanted
to experience the original effects of
turbulence and winds created by this
selection.
Dial in the CHICAGO HEIGHTS (CGT)
VOR frequency 114.20 on NAV1 and
the KANKAKEE (IKK) VOR frequency
111.60 on NAV2. (The Archer III comes
with an awesome GPS system, the
GARMIN GNS430. If you wish to use that
you can follow right along using the GPS).
78
cpm1109.indd 78
Taxi to and Take Off RWY 36. Climb

RWY HDG to 1000, then a right hand turn
to HDG 177, track the CGT VOR to on
top, and continue climb to 3000.
Over the CGT VOR turn right HDG 206
and track the KANKAKEE VOR to on
top.
On top the IKK VOR dial in and track the
ROBERTS (RBS) VOR frequency 116.80
to on top.
Over the ROBERTS VOR turn left HDG
189 and descend to 2600. Dial in and track
the CHAMPAIGN (CMI) VOR frequency
110.00 to on top.
At this time also dial in the LOC I-CMI
frequency 109.1 and set course 316
on your NAV 1 OBI. Also tune in the
VEALS (CM) NDB/LOM frequency 407
in preparation for an ILS to RWY 32R
at Champaign (actual RWY course 316,
RWY length 8100, elevation 754).
NOTE: In FS2004 RWY 32L should actually

be 32R. RWY 32L is in real life a small strip
to left of 32R. FSX did get this correct.
Over the CMI VOR (which is over the
airport) turn left HDG 136, and home the
VEALS LOM to on top. On top of the
LOM or 6 nm out of the VOR, turn left
HDG 091 and maintain for 2 minutes,
followed by a right hand turn to HDG 271
to intercept the LOC.
5 nm back, you are cleared for a full stop
to RWY 32R at CHAMPAIGN. Check
gear down. (You can do a touch and go
here or a full stop. I took the occasion to
fly this approach many times with different
weather conditions. That is what Flight
Simulator is all about, so be creative with
the winds and have fun with this one).
Land at CHAMPAIGN/Willard and take
first available right to terminal.
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:34:36 PM

Second leg:
CHAMPAIGN-URBANA/
University of Illinois (KCMI) >>>
CHICAGO OHARE Intl (KORD)
Approx distance 135 nm.
Weather at your discretion. Keep the winds
from the South as we will be landing RWY
14R at Chicago.
Dial in the ROBERTS (RBS) VOR
Frequency 116.80 on NAV2.
Taxi to and T/O RWY 32R. Climb RWY
HDG to 1000, then a right hand turn to
HDG 010 and continue climb to 5000.

Track the ROBERTS VOR to on top.
On top the ROBERTS VOR, dial in and
track the JOLIET (JOT) VOR frequency
112.30 to on top.
On top the JOLIET VOR begin descent
to 3000. Dial in and track the DUPAGE
(DPE) VOR frequency 108.40 to on top.
Enroute dial in the LOC I-ORD
frequency 109.75 and set course 142
on your NAV1 OBI. Also tune in the
CHSTR (OR) NDB/LOM frequency 394
on the ADF, in preparation for an ILS
to RWY 14R at OHare (Actual course
142, RWY length 13000, elevation 668).

On top the DPE VOR, turn right HDG
058, begin descent to 2400 and home the
OR NDB to on top.
Over the OR NDB turn right HDG 142
and fly down the I-ORD Localizer.
Continue with the approach.
5 nm back, you are cleared for a full stop
to RWY 14R at OHare. Check gear down
and locked.
Land at Chicagos OHare and taxi to
RWY 9R threshold.
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8/14/2007 10:34:38 PM
Third leg:
CHICAGO OHare Intl (KORD)
>>> MEIGS Municipal (KCGX)
Approx distance 31 nm.
Weather CAVU (Ceiling and visibility
unlimited).
Tune in the TAFFS (CHICAGO) (IA)
NDB frequency 414 on your ADF and the
80
cpm1109.indd 80
KEDZI (MX) NDB frequency 248 on the

standby ADF dial.
Taxi to and T/O RWY 9R left climbing
turn to HDG 082, climb to 3000 and home
the IA NDB to on top (Located just 4 nm
ahead).
On top the IA NDB turn right HDG 164
and home the MX NDB to on top
Over the MX NDB turn left HDG 042 and
descend to 2000. Stay on this heading until
nearly over the water and then line up with

RWY 36 at MEIGS.
You are cleared for a full stop to RWY 36 at
MEIGS. Check gear down.
Land at MEIGS and take first left to terminal.
Welcome home...
END
CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:34:39 PM
Als thank you box:

Without the help and generosity from the
people below and our payware/freeware
designers, I couldnt write these articles.
So my sincere thanks to all those and to
flightsim.com and avsim.com
1. Quotes and photos from Airways
magazine are courtesy of and with
permission of the Editor. Many thanks!
2. To Chris Squire for test flying the route.
Chris is a retired military pilot with over
12,000 hours of flying time.
3. To FSNavigator for flight planning in

FS2004, a courtesy of the FS Navigator
team.
6. To Miguel Blaufuks of SIMMARKET.

COM for the great addons
(www.simmarket.com)
4. To ABACUS for Co-Pilot V3.5 flight

planning software which allowed me to
make sure this article would work in FSX www.abacuspub.com
7. To Dreamfleet for the awesome Archer III.
5. To Justin Tyme (FSGENESIS.NET) and

to Ruud Faber (www.fscene.com) for the
great terrain textures, that make my flying
so much more enjoyable and real.
Cheers and keep on reading Computer Pilot
8. To AVSIM and FLIGHTSIM.com for being

there!
Al 4
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8/14/2007 10:34:40 PM
Subject:
Whats Missing? - Bill Stack
I am fairly new into my subscription of Computer Pilot magazine. I am in

the Army and currently on a base in Afghanistan. It makes my day to get my
edition of Computer Pilot in the mail. However, I feel compelled to respond
to the Article entitled Whats Missing? (Bill Stack; July 2007).
I have been in the hobby of flight sim for three years now. I have to say
that I disagree with Mr. Stacks opinion of the features included in MS FSX.
I started my hobby with FS2004 and one of the things that has kept me
involved in it was finding new add-ons for my simulator. New aircraft, Carrier Ops, and scenery. It allowed me to pick and choose the ones I wanted
and leave the rest.
The same interest is available for me in the latest and greatest, FSX. I
received FSX as a Christmas gift and am looking forward to finding new
aircraft and scenery. If Microsoft Flight Simulator was an all inclusive release,
I think that I might have gotten bored with it, because there would be nothing more to do than to fly. That is what makes this a hobby for me. I look
forward to continuing with my hobby and finding and creating add-ons for
FSX.
Fly safe and enjoy the ride,
ackey TER PILOT

M
r
o
v
e
U
Tr
COMP NSION!
H
T
N
12 MOPTION/EXTE
S
N
I
W
RI
SUBSC
Trevor Mackey
Tucson, AZ
[Trevor, thanks for your email. I guess you have a good point in that if everything was included in FSX, there would be nothing new to find. Plus it is
true that many third party developers really push the envelope in terms of
what the simulator software can do, and no doubt inspire the developers
that work on the Microsoft title to set even higher goals for future versions.
Many simmers are download addicts when it comes to flight sim, grabbing
anything and everything that will expand their simulator experience or suit
their needs or requirements, and many of these add-ons, due to developers
Subject:
time constraints at Microsoft/ACES, are better than what you can find
in the original simulator software. This is understandable of course. You
cant have everything all the time, but I guess there are certain things we
should also expect to see in terms of sim development moving forward,
and some of these are what Bill mentioned in his article. But in the end,
we are at the mercy of what the simulator developers wish to offer us,
but thankfully the third party commercial and freeware developers are
there to fill in the gaps! Ed]
Computer Pilot Magazine Reference Collection
Ed,
I would like you to know how much I enjoy the CDs containing the years of
Computer Pilot. I have Volumes 7, 8, 9, and 10. The newest one, Volume 7
- 2003 I just received, and it is very interesting to fly the flights in 2004 and
FSX that were originally discussed for 2002. For instance, the January 2003
issue on page 22 has an article A Pilots Guide to Europe. I have all of the
CP Magazines, but the ability to print the pages I want at any time is worth
the cost of the CD... less than USD$12. Keep em coming.
[Ray, thanks for your email and Im glad to see you enjoy the Computer
Pilot back issue collections on CD. We will be converting more back issue
volumes to CD archives as time goes on (there is quite a bit of work to convert each issue so it does take some time). We produced these collections
in response to quite a lot of reader feedback and suggestions so it is good
to hear the CD collections are being well used by our customers. Look out
for more back issue collections coming soon! Ed]
Ray Bena
Brook Park, OH
Write To Computer Pilot INBOX

If you have something you want to share with fellow flight simulator enthusiasts, then Computer Pilot INBOX is the place to be heard. Each issue, well choose the best
letter as the letter of the month and reward that reader with a prize!
The easiest and quickest way to submit your letters is by e-mail to: inbox@computerpilot.com
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CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:34:42 PM
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8/14/2007 10:34:49 PM
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CPM. V11I09
8/14/2007 10:34:52 PM

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Computer Pilot 2007-09

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