FS2004 SAS Boeing 737-800

The Boeing 737-800 series provides a short-to-medium-range platform that many real-world carriers, including Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), utilize for efficient operations across diverse routes. This freeware package is dedicated to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 and includes a complete Kittyhawk base model enhanced with a custom SAS paint scheme. Created by Erick Cantu (aircraft model and textures), Shawn Anderson (flight dynamics), and repainted by Steve Drabek, this release captures fine details, from precise winglet geometry to meticulously refined fuselage texturing. The designers integrated 32-bit textures on the primary airframe and DXT3 textures for other areas, which ensures higher fidelity where needed and smoother performance overall. A certified 737 pilot also tested the newly developed flight dynamics (FDE), adding extra authenticity to each stage of flight.

Key Graphic Enhancements

• Full Moving Components: The airframe features every primary control surface, delivering responsive ailerons, elevators, and rudder actions in the simulator.
• Gmax Construction: The scratch-built 3D model leverages advanced Gmax techniques for refined surface shaping and realistic aerodynamic lines.
• Dynamic Shine and Custom Lighting: Realistic reflections and specialized illumination add depth during day, dusk, and night flight scenarios.
• Texturing Approach: High-detail 32-bit textures adorn the fuselage, while optimized DXT3 textures handle the rest of the aircraft to preserve frame rates.

Flight Model Specifics

Pilots will notice that the flight handling mirrors the real-world character of the 737 Next Generation series. The aircraft’s FDE, expertly configured by Shawn Anderson, has been examined by a commercial pilot certified on full-scale 737 variants. This meticulous testing ensures that roll rates, pitch authority, and climb performance closely align with authentic 737 operational profiles.

Installation Steps

1. Extract the contents of this download into the simulator’s “Aircraft” folder. A “Kittyhawk 737-800 Lauda” folder will be placed there, though it includes the SAS textures shown in the simulator’s menu under Boeing, 737-800, KLM NEW Colors.
2. Move the files from the included “Effects” directory into the main Effects folder within the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 installation.

After installation, the airliner appears under the Boeing 737-800 category in your simulator. In addition to showcasing SAS’s iconic exterior finish, the model retains all the features that made Kittyhawk’s design notable: carefully mapped animations, reliable performance metrics, and visually appealing elements throughout. By incorporating the latest version of the flight dynamics, you can expect realistic maneuvers and a smooth flying experience when operating this freeware add-on.