FSX Qantas Boeing 737-800 Retrojet V-Jet (BB)

This freeware repaint delivers a striking Qantas Boeing 737-800 “Retrojet V-Jet (BB)” livery, explicitly crafted for the default Boeing 737-800 within Microsoft Flight Simulator X. It features an old-style Qantas scheme reminiscent of early jetliner eras, complete with vintage markings and classic cheatline designs. Created by Jon Murchison, this repaint reflects the historically significant “V-Jet” brand, which originally graced Qantas Boeing 707 aircraft decades ago. Enthusiasts of Australian aviation will appreciate the carefully reproduced fuselage details, tail art, and lettering.

Classic Inspiration and Stylized Texture Work

The color palette and layout reference Qantas’ retro aesthetic, emphasizing the airline’s progression from early commercial jets to modern narrow-body aircraft. The fuselage integrates the nostalgic V-Jet insignia (the “V” stands for “V-Jet,” a term once used to highlight Qantas’ advanced jet fleet) along with a two-tone band that underscores historical Qantas branding. This attention to period authenticity transports simmers back to an era when the airline was expanding international routes in the Southern Hemisphere.

Why the 737-800?

The Boeing 737-800 serves as a mainstay of Qantas’ domestic operations. Its efficient range and capacity—often configured to seat around 170-plus passengers—enable Qantas to link Australian cities swiftly. In the simulator, the 737-800’s flight deck affords intuitive glass cockpit elements, further enhancing the immersion for pilots who enjoy the interplay between modern avionics and retro-livery aesthetics. This overlay of time periods is especially engaging for fans of classic airline themes.

Accurate Detailing in the Simulator

Jon Murchison harnessed high-resolution painting techniques to reproduce each line and text element on the fuselage and tail. These subtle details include heritage stylings, vintage emblems, and color boundaries. When viewed in varied lighting conditions—such as dawn or dusk—you can see how reflections and shading respond to the distinct paint layout, which strongly evokes Qantas’ earlier “V-Jet” fleet days.

Installation Essentials

Since this package is a texture-only release, you must already have the default Boeing 737-800 installed in your Microsoft Flight Simulator X directory. Once you copy the necessary texture folder and update the appropriate aircraft configuration files, you can load up the Qantas Retrojet variation directly within the simulator’s aircraft selection menu. Consult the included readme document for instructions on adding the repaint entry, ensuring you follow each step precisely to avoid any model or texture conflicts.

Base Model Requirements

This texture set does not include the default aircraft model. You will need to acquire—and perhaps reinstall if missing—the standard 737-800 that ships with FSX or acquire the freeware base from the Fly Away Simulation mod library if applicable. You can then apply this repaint on top of that existing model. Once installed, you will see the Qantas Retrojet V-Jet (BB) livery listed under your Boeing 737-800 variants.

Visual Preview

The above preview image highlights the main livery elements, including the hallmark “V-Jet” tail script and the signature Qantas cheatline along the fuselage. In your virtual hangar, this retro scheme stands out among more modern designs.

Credit to the Creator

Jon Murchison meticulously painted this freeware add-on to celebrate Qantas’ heritage and legacy. His artistry breathes fresh life into one of today’s most frequently flown narrow-body aircraft. Whether simmers are flying short domestic hops along Australia’s coastline or simulating trans-Tasman routes, this texture pack delivers a nostalgic feeling without compromising on modern flight deck functionality.