FS2004 Philippine Airlines MD-11

This freeware package brings you a meticulously crafted Philippine Airlines MD-11 for FS2004, developed by iFDG (International Flightsim Design Group). It incorporates a complete base model that showcases an authentic trijet experience with an attention to detail matching the real aircraft's advanced systems, flight deck design, and aerodynamic enhancements.

Distinctive External Configuration

At first glance, this MD-11 rendition displays its hallmark wide-cabin trijet arrangement, accompanied by fully animated control surfaces, flaperons (combined flap-and-aileron devices), and complete wing views. The exterior is rendered with carefully reflective textures that replicate how light bounces off the aircraft’s fuselage, especially under varying environmental conditions. Beyond aesthetics, users will also find a comprehensive lighting setup that ensures accurate night operations, including navigation, landing, and logo lights.

Advanced Aerodynamic Design

The real-life MD-11 is regarded as a modern successor to the DC-10 series, incorporating wingtip winglets and an extended tail cone to minimize drag. This design refinement increases overall range and improves fuel economy, which is reflected in this simulation model. Meanwhile, a narrower horizontal stabilizer with built-in fuel capacity further optimizes aerodynamic control, making extended operations more achievable.

Performance & Range

In actual service, the MD-11 can travel upwards of 7,600 statute miles at its maximum takeoff weight of approximately 602,500 lb (273,290 kg). By opting for an extended-range version, operators could add an auxiliary fuel tank and increase takeoff weight to roughly 630,500 lb (285,990 kg), pushing the distance to more than 8,200 statute miles—a vital characteristic for intercontinental flights. This versatility allowed airlines like Philippine Airlines to plan long-haul routes with fewer stops.

Engine & System Variations

This three-engine aircraft is powered by either the General Electric CF6-80C2 or the Pratt & Whitney 4460/4462, providing robust thrust while retaining trijet efficiency. In practice, such engine options ensure consistent performance under different flight conditions. All engines deliver smooth operation, improve climb capabilities, and maintain reliable operation on extended journeys.

Cockpit Technology

One of the MD-11’s most noteworthy features is its flight deck architecture. The cockpit employs six cathode ray tube (CRT) displays for critical flight information and centralized digital instrumentation, which decrease pilot fatigue. There is also dual flight management functionality that helps optimize fuel usage, as well as an autopilot system with fail-operational capability aiding in enhanced safety. Additionally, automated checklist controllers alleviate the flight crew’s workload by managing normal and emergency procedures without the need for a third occupant in the cockpit.

Philippine Airlines Context

Philippine Airlines—recognized as one of Asia’s pioneering carriers—operates diverse route networks across international and domestic segments. While this MD-11 livery honors the look and feel associated with the airline, it also highlights the versatility of the real narrow-winged, long-range trijet. Pilots in the virtual skies can explore transpacific or regional routes covered historically by the airline, with a strong emphasis on authentic flight parameters.

Credits & Contributors

iFDG (International Flightsim Design Group) designed this model and flight dynamics. The talented team includes:

Model & FDE

Albaro Villegas

Master Textures

Ben Jones

Testing

The MD-11 Beta Team

Livery

Ben Jones

Documentation

Albaro Villegas and Basten Heidema

Installation Procedure

Simply extract the compressed file into your main Flight Simulator aircraft directory. Make sure to relocate all files located in the “effects” folder to the simulator’s EFFECTS directory. Then, initiate special effects by pressing the “I” key in the simulation environment. Double-check all folder placements to ensure that gauges and effects are recognized correctly.

Have fun exploring the skies with this freeware MD-11 package!

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