AFCAD For EHTW

This freeware release brings a meticulously refined rendition of Twenthe Airport (EHTW) in the eastern Netherlands, expertly developed by Joost de Wit. Although the real-world airfield has been decommissioned, this adaptation for Microsoft Flight Simulator X offers simmers a chance to explore a classic Dutch facility that once served both military and civil operations. This package uses AFCAD (Airport Facility Data) files enhanced with Airport Design Editor (ADE) to provide accurate layout data, including parking positions and taxi networks, for a realistic experience.

Regional History and Location Specifics

Formerly located near Enschede, Twenthe Airport was once an active air base under the Royal Netherlands Air Force. Over time, it supported various types of traffic, from military jets to occasional civilian flights. Since its closure, local authorities have debated the site’s future, yet it remains a notable piece of Dutch aviation heritage.

Key Technical Adjustments within This Add-On

• AFCAD Refinements: The core document updates gates, parking layouts, and taxi paths. In many simulators, the AFCAD (or BGL) file provides critical data used for AI traffic routes and ensures each stand aligns correctly with airport diagrams.
• ADE Integration: Compiled using Airport Design Editor (ADE), these modifications offer precise runway markings and refine apron geometry for more realistic pushbacks and ground movement.
• Compatibility: Developed exclusively for Microsoft Flight Simulator X, tested with Service Pack 1. Although not officially tested in Service Pack 2 or in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004, it may still function under those environments, though that remains unverified.

Implementation Steps

1. Locate and copy the provided BGL file into the “FSX/Addon Scenery/Scenery” folder, located inside your core simulator directory. Ensure that the Addon Scenery directory remains active in the simulator’s scenery library.
2. Launch Microsoft Flight Simulator X and allow it to refresh its database. Once completed, navigate to the Twenthe airfield to confirm that new taxi signs, parking spots, and runway markings appear as intended.

Optional Removal Instructions

1. Open the same “FSX/Addon Scenery/Scenery” folder and locate the Twenthe Airport AFCAD (BGL) file.
2. Delete or move this file out of the folder. Any changes made by the scenery update will no longer be applied once the simulator restarts.

Created By

This freeware add-on was compiled by Joost de Wit, bringing a classic Dutch airport back to life in your flight simulator environment. Enjoy exploring the preserved details of this historically significant aerodrome, and feel free to share any feedback with the creator if you encounter compatibility issues or other concerns.