FSX Basler BT-67 Alfred Wegener 'Polar 5' V2

This freeware package provides a specialized repaint for a converted DC-3 airframe known as the Basler BT-67, featuring the Alfred Wegener Institute’s “Polar 5” registration C-GAWI. It is carefully designed for Microsoft Flight Simulator X users seeking an authentic polar research variant, complete with ski and non-ski configurations. Developed as a collaborative project by Daniel Fuernkaess, Manfred Jahn, Alexander M. Metzger, and Hansjoerg Naegele, this release showcases a distinctive visual style while complementing the proven turboprop conversion that transforms a classic Douglas DC-3 into a high-performance research platform.

Unique Visual Details of the Alfred Wegener Institute Aircraft

The Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) employs “Polar 5” for extensive research flights, often operating in glacial conditions. Its Basler conversion extends range, reliability, and flexibility in remote environments. Offering a higher payload capacity than the original airframe, the BT-67 is ideally suited for polar expeditions. In this package, repaint artist Daniel Fuernkaess (Cheese-Strike Repaints) applies vibrant markings and precise logos aligned with the aircraft’s actual registry, C-GAWI. The adaptation includes comprehensive attention to exterior detailing, accurately reflecting the real-world AWI scheme.

Notable Characteristics and Functional Elements

• Two Variants Included: A ski-equipped model and a standard wheel-based version, both painted to mirror AWI’s actual “Polar 5.”
• Enhanced Turboprop Traits: Preserves authentic BT-67 powerplant modifications, which improve takeoff performance in harsh conditions.
• Twin Engine Prop Classification: Retains the cockpit layout consistent with the baseline BT-67 release, adapted for advanced flight simulation immersion.
• Diverse Operational Profile: Ideal for sim pilots aiming to replicate polar research mission flights or short-field adventures in cold climates.

Step-by-Step Installation Procedure

1. Verify that you have a functional installation of the base Basler BT-67 package. If you do not, install that core pack first to ensure file dependencies are met.
2. Unzip this repaint package into a temporary directory, or open it using a suitable file explorer.
3. Locate and remove any previously installed textures referencing “Polar 5” to prevent conflicts.
4. Copy the texture.C-GAWI and texture.C-GAWI_ski folders into the “Basler_BT67” directory found in your simulator’s aircraft container structure.
5. Edit your aircraft.cfg using a basic text editor (for instance, Notepad). Delete any older “Polar 5” entries. Then insert the sections shown below, making sure to adjust the “[fltsim.x]” indexing so it follows sequential order.

[fltsim.x]
title=Basler BT-67 AWI - Polar 5 Ski
sim=Basler_BT67_v1.7
model=BT67_ski
panel=
sound=
texture=C-GAWI_ski
kb_checklists=BT-67_check
kb_reference=BT-67_ref
atc_id=C-GAWI
atc_airline=Alfred Wegener Institute
atc_flight_number=
ui_manufacturer="Basler"
ui_type="BT-67"
ui_variation="Alfred Wegener 'Polar 5' (ski)"
ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop"
ui_createdby=
description="'Polar 5' of Alfred Wegener Institute.\nPaint by Daniel Fuernkaess (Cheese-Strike Repaints). Project BT-67 developers: Daniel Fuernkaess, Manfred Jahn, Alexander M. Metzger, Hansjoerg Naegele."

[fltsim.x+1]
title=Basler BT-67 AWI - Polar 5 no ski
sim=Basler_BT67_v1.7
model=BT67_1
panel=
sound=
texture=C-GAWI
kb_checklists=BT-67_check
kb_reference=BT-67_ref
atc_id=C-GAWI
atc_airline=Alfred Wegener Institute
atc_flight_number=
ui_manufacturer="Basler"
ui_type="BT-67"
ui_variation="Alfred Wegener 'Polar 5' (no ski)"
ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop"
ui_createdby=
description="'Polar 5' of Alfred Wegener Institute.\nPaint by Daniel Fuernkaess (Cheese-Strike Repaints). Project BT-67 developers: Daniel Fuernkaess, Manfred Jahn, Alexander M. Metzger, Hansjoerg Naegele."

Key Considerations

This repaint is intended for free, non-commercial distribution. For precise compatibility, be sure to confirm that your copy of the base BT-67 package (by Daniel Fuernkaess, Manfred Jahn, Alexander M. Metzger, and Hansjoerg Naegele) is fully up to date. The final result offers an accurate depiction of “Polar 5,” enabling enthusiasts to experience the operational environment of an aircraft that regularly navigates the demanding polar landscape.