FSX First Choice Boeing 757 W/Winglets

This freeware package features the iconic Boeing 757 equipped with winglets in both Thomson Airways and First Choice markings. Developed by Joe Turner and repainted by Ben Thomson using the Project Open Sky base model, it recreates the distinctive twin-engined, medium-haul passenger jet for enthusiasts of Microsoft Flight Simulator X. In this set, the developers have merged accurate exterior visuals with authentic detailing to commemorate the transition from First Choice to Thomson Airways that occurred following the TUI Travel merger.

Distinctive Aircraft Profile

The Boeing 757 is a mid-size transport aircraft known for its efficient Rolls-Royce RB211 turbofan engines and advanced wing design. These winglets, which extend upward from the wingtips, help reduce aerodynamic drag while improving overall performance. First Choice’s signature colors merged with Thomson Airways’ revised branding create a unique hybrid livery that represents a transitionary period in the operator’s history.

Background on the Airline

Thomson Airways, which emerged from a merger between TUI Travel and First Choice Holidays in 2007, is recognized as a prominent charter carrier that operates routes across multiple continents. After consolidation, much of its fleet still retained First Choice liveries until full repainting could be completed. With a diverse collection of Boeing and Airbus aircraft, the airline has also prepared to introduce the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as part of its modernization strategy.

Notable Livery Elements

• Paintwork: Deeper fuselage tones replace the lighter First Choice scheme, with the “fly.com” text removed from the fuselage branding.
• Airframe Identification: This package emulates aircraft G-OOBA, originally part of the First Choice fleet before its integration into Thomson Airways.

Technical Highlights

This add-on incorporates the complete Project Open Sky 757-200 model, ensuring an accurate external structure and flight dynamics. The package utilizes default cockpit panels and audio from the Boeing 737-800 in FSX, providing a functional yet straightforward setup for immediate use. Adjustable controls for flaps, spoilers, and other essential flight surfaces maintain a realistic operating experience.

Optimized for Microsoft Flight Simulator X

Although configured for Microsoft Flight Simulator X by default, the aircraft can be adapted for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 by modifying the panel and sound references in the aircraft.cfg file to alias the 737-400. This optional configuration ensures multi-platform compatibility without significant workflow changes.

Installation and Integration

Installation is straightforward since the entire Boeing 757 model (including the necessary model, texture, panel, and sound files) is encapsulated in one folder. Simply place the folder into the “Simobjects/Airplanes” directory within FSX. Once installed, look under the Boeing manufacturer category and find the 757-200W listing with Thomson Airways markings. An Effects directory is also included; copy any contained effects into the main “Effects” folder for complete visual fidelity at night or in low-light conditions.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 users must adjust panel and sound paths to reference the 737-400. This involves changing the sound and panel aliases within aircraft.cfg to point to the default Boeing 737-400 folders. Such minor edits ensure a smooth transition for older simulator environments.

Attribution

The developers would like to acknowledge:

Joe Turner

For assembling the Thomson and First Choice 757 variants.

Ben Thomson

For creating the repaint and ensuring the darker fuselage tones align with the updated Thomson branding.

Project Open Sky

For the original Boeing 757 model and paint kit, which laid the groundwork for this package.

Martin Wright

For the indispensable DXTBMP software used during repaint processes.