AFCAD File For KMDW

Chicago Midway International Airport (KMDW) is a bustling aviation hub situated roughly eight miles from downtown Chicago. This updated AFCAD layout by Ray Smith refines the default scenery in Microsoft Flight Simulator X and offers considerable improvements, including realistic crosswind runway operations, carefully assigned parking spots, and upgraded taxiway sign placement—all intended to provide an accurate, enjoyable simulation of the real-world airport environment.

Enhanced Layout and Runway Configurations

Developed using the latest iteration of Airport Design Editor (ADE), the modification includes two separate runway configuration files targeting different operational needs. One version utilizes all five runways simultaneously through crosswind activation, while the other reflects default runway usage patterns. Each version integrates:

• Revised taxi networks (enhanced taxiway routes and markings).
• Extended RAMP and gate areas for both general aviation and commercial aircraft parking.
• Additional fuel vehicles to streamline ground service operations.

For those who enjoy tower views, note that the vantage point in this package is aligned with the control tower’s rooftop.

Included BGL Components

KMDW_ADE_RS.BGL

Represents a traditional runway operation configuration.

KMDW_ADE_CW_RS.BGL

Enables crosswind functionality for all five runways, allowing simultaneous usage.

KMDW_ADE_OBJ.BGL

Incorporates various enhanced objects, including helipad details and refreshed ground vehicle paths.

Use only one of the runway configuration files (KMDW_ADE_RS.BGL or KMDW_ADE_CW_RS.BGL) at any given time to avoid inconsistencies in airport operations.

Observations About Chicago Midway

Midway serves as a primary alternative to the larger O’Hare airport, offering both commercial traffic and general aviation facilities. Its five-runway system, despite spatial constraints, enables frequent takeoffs and landings. This add-on aims to highlight that traffic intensity by reconfiguring the core runway layout and ground routes, ensuring the simulator user experiences realistic mid-continent operations.

Be aware that the crosswind runway file activates certain “fake” runways intended to trick AI traffic into effective usage of all runways. ATIS broadcasts in simulator sessions might reference these phantom strips, which is a known limitation in how non-parallel runways are handled.

Installation Procedure

1. Pick either KMDW_ADE_CW_RS.BGL or KMDW_ADE_RS.BGL from the package and place it in your “Addon Scenery/scenery” folder under Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Ensure only one of these is present at a time.
2. Position KMDW_ADE_OBJ.BGL inside the “Scenery/Global/scenery” folder.
3. Run Microsoft Flight Simulator X and examine Chicago Midway to see the modifications.

• Remove any other AFCAD or BGL files for KMDW (installed by other add-ons) from the “Addon Scenery/scenery” folder to mitigate conflicts.
• If you decide to revert to the default airport, simply remove all KMDW_ADE .BGL files, and the original configuration will load automatically.

Ray Smith’s detailed approach provides more realistic ground handling, runway utilization, and an overall immersive environment. It maintains Midway’s essential functionality while updating signage, supports, and crosswind capabilities for a more precise simulation experience. Enjoy your flights in and out of KMDW!

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