FS2004 Saudia Lockheed L1011-200 TriStar

This freeware repaint showcases Saudia’s L-1011-200 TriStar in its 1983 livery. It has been carefully crafted by Geoff Chambers and is designed for use with Mike Stone’s freeware Lockheed TriStar base package (SL10115.ZIP) in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004. The files included here focus solely on the texture set and do not contain the original model, which can be obtained from the Fly Away Simulation library. These textures accurately portray the airline’s distinct exterior design from that early 1980s period, plus they emphasize the characteristic dimensions of the L-1011-200 variant.

Historical Context: L-1011-200 in Saudia Service

Lockheed introduced the L-1011 TriStar series in the early 1970s as a widebody aircraft optimized for medium to long routes. The L-1011-200 variant, unlike the shortened 500 series, was stretched to accommodate greater passenger volume. Saudia (known historically as Saudi Arabian Airlines) operated the 200 series with a fuselage approximately 13 feet longer than the ultra-long-range 500 version. Additionally, the wing platform on these jets possessed a slightly different span that allowed them to manage various flight profiles effectively.

Unique Exterior Details from 1983

This repaint strives to mirror the authentic Saudia paint scheme as seen around 1983, complete with classic tail markings and fuselage logo placement. Saudi Arabian Airlines utilized these TriStars extensively on regional and intercontinental routes, benefitting from the aircraft’s stable flight characteristics and powerplant configuration. The textures by Geoff Chambers incorporate period-appropriate colors and subtle weathering cues to simulate real-world conditions encountered by these mid-life TriStars.

Installing the Texture Package

Begin by extracting the included files into a temporary directory of your choice. Next, locate the main Lockheed TriStar folder within your simulator’s aircraft directory (this should be the folder containing Mike Stone’s base package). Copy the texture.saudi directory into that location. To complete the final step, open the aircraft.cfg file in a text editor and insert the code below using the next available index in [fltsim.x]. Ensure that you correctly increment the “x,” so it does not conflict with any existing entries.

[fltsim.x]
title=Lockheed L-1011-200 Saudia
sim=l1011
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=saudi
kb_checklists=l1011_CHECK
kb_reference=l1011_REF
atc_id=HZAHG
atc_airline=saudi
atc_flight_number=
atc_heavy=1
atc_parking_types=GATE,RAMP
ui_manufacturer=Lockheed
ui_type=L-1011-200
ui_variation=Saudia
visual_damage=1
description=The venerable Lockheed L-1011 TriStar was designed as a medium to long haul airliner in the 250 seat range. The 500 was the long range model designed to make the L-1011 more competitive with the DC-10. Shorter than earlier models, it sacrificed passenger capacity for greater range. The TriStar was well liked by pilots and passengers alike, and no greater tribute can be paid to this old workhorse than the fact that some L-1011's are still in front line service today, 36 years after its maiden flight.

Notes on Compatibility

This repaint was explicitly designed for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004, aligning perfectly with Mike Stone’s L-1011 flight dynamics and modeling. It remains optimized for the TriStar’s unique fuselage contour and inlet geometry, ensuring a consistent look throughout your virtual flights. For best results, confirm that the base model (SL10115.ZIP) is properly installed. The Saudia livery will appear in the aircraft selection menu as “Lockheed L-1011-200 Saudia.”

Contributions and Acknowledgments

These textures were provided by Geoff Chambers, and the original TriStar model was crafted by Mike Stone. Enthusiasts seeking additional modifications or repaints will find a range of similar enhancements available in the Fly Away Simulation library. This Saudia texture set is freeware, created for the enjoyment of the flight simulation community.