FS2004 Aer Lingus Boeing 747-400 EI-DFW

This freeware package features Aer Lingus’s Boeing 747-400 registration EI-DFW, meticulously developed by the Project OpenSky team. Their advanced modeling and attention to detail bring a faithful rendition of this iconic long-haul airliner to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004, complete with an array of authentic animations and reflective texturing.

Visual Overview and Exterior Model

This variant of the Boeing 747-400 includes the characteristic stretched upper deck and high-capacity fuselage that helped Aer Lingus serve transatlantic routes. Its airframe design provides efficient performance at cruise altitudes, and the Irish carrier historically used this type for long-haul service, connecting Ireland to various global destinations.

Contributor Credits

Model Designer

C. Vincent Cho

Flight Dynamics Designer

Warren C. Daniel

FDE Advisors

Nick Peterson, Simon Ng Hin Tat

Quality Control

Simon Ng Hin Tat

Tested By

Project OpenSky Members

Master Textures

C. Vincent Cho

Key Functional Features

• Complete Control Surface Animation: Ailerons, elevators, rudder, and spoilers simulate real-time movement.
• Independent Suspension: Each landing gear strut reacts to ground terrain separately.
• Fully Steerable Main Landing Gear: Maneuver accurately at lower taxi speeds.
• Dynamic Wing Flex: Wings flex realistically under various loads and turbulence.
• Animated Thrust Reversers: Engine reverser deployment complements high-fidelity flight dynamics.
• Tilting Bogies and Rolling Wheels: Gear truck assemblies tilt and wheels rotate for authentic ground roll behavior.
• Reflective Textures: Varying degrees of reflectivity on surfaces enhance realism in changing light conditions.
• Cargo and Passenger Door Operation: Multiple doors can be opened, including main cabin and cargo bays.
• Accurate FDE (Flight Dynamics Engine): Tested by real pilots to re-create the genuine handling of a 747-400.
• Enhanced Night Lighting: Illuminated windows, landing lights, and visible cockpit glow.
• Transparent Navigation Light Covers: Nav lights include clear lenses for additional visual accuracy.
• Crash Effects: Simulated damage visuals that trigger on impact.

Installation Instructions

1. Extract the downloaded archive and move the contained “Aircrafts” folder into your existing FS2002 aircraft directory. (Although designated for FS2002 folders, it remains fully compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 when placed correctly.)

Operational Details

Opening Passenger Door: Press Shift + E. This command will animate the main passenger entry.
Opening Cargo Bay Door: Use the arrest hook command to access the cargo hold.
Additional Cargo Doors (Combi and Cargo models): Activate them via the wing folding function, which reveals the upper cargo door.