McCarran Int'l Airport

Discover a detailed freeware modification of the default McCarran Int’l Airport (KLAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, created by Ray Smith. This enhanced scenery targets Flight Simulator X enthusiasts looking for more refined gate arrangements, comprehensive ground-vehicle pathways, and adjusted fueling points, all integrated to reduce taxiway congestion and improve overall immersion. Long recognized as a busy gateway near the Las Vegas Strip, this airport (officially renamed Harry Reid International Airport in late 2021) is known for high-traffic volumes and scenic approaches, making it a popular spot for virtual pilots seeking both operational challenge and high-fidelity details.

Key Refinements for Airport Layout

Thanks to Ray Smith’s careful planning, the gates have been resized and reorganized, each assigned with purposeful parking codes where feasible. There are also freshly introduced parking positions for larger aircraft. These refined allocations aim to reflect the bustling nature of real-world airline operations while offering a smoother experience for virtual travelers. The cargo area has received similar attention, permitting more flexible placement of freight carriers.

Ground Support and Vehicle Routing Improvements

In contrast to the default FSX design, the support vehicle roads have been completely rebuilt, allowing maintenance and service trucks to travel around the terminals and the cargo facilities without disrupting taxiways. This new layout dramatically reduces traffic snags, supports more realistic apron operations, and enhances authenticity when navigating the airfield.

Optimized Tower Views

The tower views have been adjusted so users can see the ramp and runways directly from within the control tower in Tower View mode. This perspective adds to the immersion, helping to replicate the vantage point enjoyed by real-world air traffic controllers in Las Vegas.

Tip for Additional Viewing Control

To take full advantage of Tower View, Ray Smith recommends assigning a joystick or keyboard key to the “View track/pan Toggle.” Doing so unlocks your viewpoint, enabling you to rotate freely in a 360-degree arc around the airport. Pressing the same key or button again refocuses on your aircraft, ensuring seamless transitions between aircraft operations and airport observation.

Installation Instructions

1. Copy the BGL file named FSX_klas.BGL into the Flight Simulator X/Addon Scenery/Scenery folder.
2. Launch Flight Simulator X, and the adjusted airport layout will be active.

Uninstallation Steps

1. Remove the FSX_klas.BGL file from your Scenery directory.
2. The stock default layout will then resume.

Additional Notes

This update is fully compatible with Ultimate Traffic, though that add-on is not mandatory. If preexisting FSX issues remain, they may persist until specialized AFCAD-style tools become available for further modifications. The developer also extends gratitude to Jim Vile and Reggie Fields for their expertise in adapting these files within FSX.

Ray Smith dedicates this project to the memory of Lee Swordy, whose contributions to the flight sim community have left a lasting legacy.

Enjoy exploring the busy Las Vegas airspace under more realistic conditions, and happy flying!

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