FSX Beechcraft Model 99 Package

This freeware release of the twin-engined Beechcraft Model 99 (sometimes referred to as the Commuter 99 or Beech 99 Airliner) brings a robust turboprop to enthusiasts of Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Developed by Jean-Pierre Brisard and Bob May from Premier Aircraft Design, this complete package includes multiple liveries, distinct passenger and cargo configurations, and an accurate virtual cockpit that highlights the functional layout of this unpressurized 17-seat aircraft. Many operators use the real-world Model 99 for freight operations, making this variant an essential inclusion.

Background on the Aircraft

The actual Beech Model 99 draws inspiration from the earlier King Air and Queen Air airframes. Although it accommodates up to 15 passengers, numerous real-world carriers outfit this aircraft primarily for short flights or rural hops. In many of today’s fleets, well over half of these turboprops have evolved into dedicated transport liners for cargo. From its inception, Beech Aircraft Corporation (now under Hawker Beechcraft) engineered the Model 99 for performance and reliability. Its twin turboprop engines maintain balanced thrust, ensuring steady handling and a manageable cockpit workload.

Included Features

• Full Package: The download provides the complete base model, so no external add-on is required. It contains both passenger and freight versions.
• Virtual Cockpit (VC): A functional VC arrangement is integrated with custom gauges for an enriched in-simulator operation.
• Multiple Liveries: Four detailed paint schemes are included, covering a range of operational appearances.

Installation Steps

All instructions refer to the primary Microsoft Flight Simulator X directory (often located by default in “C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\Microsoft Flight Simulator X\”). Extract the provided package to a temporary folder, then follow these specific steps:

1. Create a dedicated folder named Groundhandling5 inside “FSX\Sound\”.
2. Copy all .wav files and the sound.ini file into “FSX\Sound\Groundhandling5\”.
3. Move Groundhandling5_Sound.dll and rcb_groundhandling5.cab into “FSX\Gauges\”.
   Note: Do not extract the contents of rcb_groundhandling5.cab.

Once positioned, these files integrate an enhanced ground handling system into your aircraft panel. The gauge file (signed by Doug Dawson) may prompt an alert in FSX; simply allow it to run and check the option to always trust gauges from this publisher if prompted.

Panel Configuration

Open the panel.cfg for your Beechcraft Model 99 or other aircraft where you wish to install these gauges. This file usually resides in: FSX\SimObjects\Airplanes\[Your Aircraft]\Panel\. It is advised to create a backup of panel.cfg before making edits.

In the [Window Titles] section, insert the following line, substituting ** for your next available window number:

Window**=Groundhandling

Then, create the panel window block in the same file, again replacing ** with that same number:

[Window**] size_mm=204,65 visible=0 window_size=0.20,0.09 window_pos=0.0,0.05 background_color=16,16,16 gauge00=RCB_Groundhandling5!PushbackDisplay, 2,2,74,61 gauge01=RCB_Groundhandling5!PushbackStates, 0,0 gauge02=RCB_Groundhandling5!Taxispeed, 79,2,64,61 //gauge03=RCB_Groundhandling5!UseToebrakePedals, 0,0 gauge04=RCB_Groundhandling5!Brakes, 146,2,56,61 gauge05=RCB_Groundhandling5_Sound!dsd_xml_sound3, 0,0,0,0, ./Sound/Groundhandling5/Sound.ini

For flight decks equipped with proportional toe brakes (like CH Pro Pedals), activate the line for UseToebrakePedals by removing “//” from the beginning. This setting interprets scaled pedal input for more refined braking.

You can access the Groundhandling panel from the simulator menu in any view. If you prefer to keep it visible while switching views, right-click the window and select “Undock” so that it remains open.

Authorship and Credits

All components of this freeware add-on have been carefully produced by Jean-Pierre Brisard and Bob May under the Premier Aircraft Design label. They have ensured functional gauges, realistic liveries, and a seamless user experience by refining core elements specific to the Beechcraft Model 99 while reflecting the aircraft’s real-world freight and commuter roles.