FS2004 Alitalia McDonnell Douglas MD-82 I-DAWD

This freeware release presents a detailed McDonnell Douglas MD-82 repaint named "Catanzaro" (tail number I-DAWD) intended for Just Flight’s Traffic 2004 payware package. It includes every component required for a flyable model within Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 along with an AI-version for more immersive traffic. Repaint and flight model are credited to Daniel Nole, who has fine-tuned engine parameters, fuel consumption, and aerodynamic profiles to closely match real-world performance.

Highlighting the "Catanzaro" MD-82

This rendition of Alitalia’s MD-82 puts the spotlight on airframe I-DAWD, famously named "Catanzaro." Across Alitalia’s fleet, each aircraft typically bears a name linked to an Italian city or region, and this repaint captures that tradition. In the 1990s, Alitalia took delivery of various MD-80 series jets as a modern follow-up to its venerable DC-9s, making the MD-82 a prominent sight in European skies.

Adapted for AI Traffic and Realistic Operations

Beyond the standard flyable model, this package incorporates an AI-ready variant. When used in conjunction with Traffic 2004 by Just Flight, you will notice more authentic schedules and routing. The developer, Daniel Nole, has carefully repaired certain fictional assignments, ensuring that aircraft like the MD-11 are no longer inappropriately dispatched to smaller airports. Alitalia’s long-haul services involving Boeing 767-300 or Boeing 777-200ER aircraft are also reflected more faithfully.

Refined Flight Plans

These newly enhanced routes align with the real Alitalia timetables, removing out-of-place aircraft and matching correct platform types with specific city-pair flights. Standard flight levels have been adjusted to typical cruising altitudes between FL350 and FL390, adding a layer of immersion and realism for those observing AI movements in the virtual skies.

Technical Improvements

The MD-82 featured here benefits from an extensive rework of the air file. This updated configuration achieves accurate weight distribution, thrust performance, and fuel consumption rates. Alitalia’s MD-82s historically operated important segments throughout Europe, linking major hubs (such as Milano Malpensa and Roma Fiumicino) with destinations like Lisbon, Madrid, London, and many others.

Installation Guidance

• Extract the JFAiMD82 folder to a temporary location on your computer.
• Move the JFAiMD82 folder into your main FS2004 aircraft directory.
• If you already have a prior Alitalia MD-82 repaint from Daniel Nole, simply place the new texture folder (az2) in the existing installation.

Because this repaint is designed for Just Flight’s Traffic 2004, you must have the payware model available, which can be purchased separately. Note that this package does not include the payware component itself.

Italian Heritage and Modern Operations

Alitalia’s MD-82 series remains a noteworthy chapter in the carrier’s timeline, bridging the gap between classic DC-9 operations and more recent fleets of Airbus and Embraer aircraft. Many of the airline’s MD-82s carried distinctive markings referencing places in Italy, reflecting national pride. This "Catanzaro" repaint serves as a fitting tribute to that legacy and offers a valuable addition for pilots and spotters looking to enrich their virtual flights in the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 environment.