AFCAD Modification For Stock KPSP

This freeware AFCAD modification revamps the default layout at Palm Springs International Airport in California. It offers comprehensive navigational and structural improvements for Microsoft Flight Simulator X users who want a more accurate representation of this desert-region airport. Created by Kambiz Agazi, this update includes corrections to RNAV (RNP) approaches, revised cargo and passenger gates, and adjustments to visual signage and lighting elements. The adjustments strictly follow the official approach plates, ensuring that your RNAV route now smoothly transitions from BALDI to CUPOL when flying into Runway 31L. Additionally, this release retains the original tower file, featuring a red strobe effect, which further enhances the realism of the airport environment for virtual pilots.

Detailed Scenery Preview

New RNAV Transition and Fixed Approaches

The revised RNAV (RNP) transition for KPSP now aligns precisely with published charts. The flight path from BALDI to Cupol during approaches to 31L is correctly drawn, eliminating the unexpected detour that existed before. If you are familiar with procedures in mountainous terrain, you will appreciate the precise alignment to the curved approach segment.

Enhanced Airport Layout and Ground Adjustments

The file KPSP_KA.bgl updates the default scenery by adding or modifying gates, taxiways, and other essential airport structures. Notable changes encompass:

• Accurate gate numbering with realistic airline allocations. Parking dimensions have been optimized for use with MyTraffic X 5.2 and World of AI schedules.
• Two previously missing jetway-equipped gates, which have now been incorporated for authenticity.
• Additional ramp locations inspired by real-world aerial imagery.
• Refined runway markings, including lighting and instrument landing components, based on updated aviation data.
• Placement of a flashing red strobe on the control tower structure to mirror real-world lighting.
• Updated blast pads at both runway ends, consistent with satellite references.
• Overhauled vehicular routes around the airport perimeter to enhance support vehicle flow.
• Supplementary general aviation slots drawn from local mapping data.
• Surface material adjustments for the main terminal apron (concrete) and the GA area (tarmac) to align with actual pavement textures.
• New RNAV (RNP with GPS overlay) procedures for Runways 31L and 13R, requiring added caution near the surrounding mountainous areas.
• Reactivation of finished taxiway A1 for improved circuit traffic efficiency.

All structures, including buildings and static objects, will appear at normal scenery density settings. Jetways will show from the dense setting onward, while extremely dense will display every available jetway. If you wish to experience enhanced airport lighting, you can install the fsx_lts package by Jim Dhaenens (no external link here), which introduces tailored night lighting.

Installation Instructions

1. Copy KPSP_KA.bgl and KPSP TOWER WITH redlight attachpt STROBE EFFECT.bgl into any active scenery folder. An ideal location is the Microsoft Flight Simulator X\Addon Scenery\Scenery folder. Ensure that this airport scenery sits above other area or state packages, such as UTX USA, in your library priority.

These files were verified with Microsoft Flight Simulator X (Service Pack 2). Although earlier FSX releases like RTM and SP1 should be compatible, slight differences in rendering may occur. This modification was also tested with UTX USA, Scenery Tech North America, and FS Genesis 10m USA Mesh. For AI traffic setups, MyTraffic X 5.2 and World of AI have been used successfully, placing airliners in accurate locations. Other AI packages may alter specific gate assignments but should remain generally functional.

While exhaustive efforts were made to rectify inaccuracies, minor discrepancies might still arise. Please contact the developer if you notice any significant issues. The foundation of this work relies on Jon Masterson (ADE V1.40), whose toolset facilitated detailed airport editing. All these enhancements aim to reflect the real-world operations of Palm Springs International Airport and provide a more precise flight simulation experience.