AFCAD File For KBUR

This comprehensive update refines the default layout of Bob Hope Airport in California to align with current chart data. It highlights new taxiway signage, enhanced support vehicle routes, extra parking spots, and a remodel of terminal positions, all meticulously crafted by Ray Smith using Airport Design Editor (ADE). The add-on accommodates both crosswind runway operations and standard runway usage within Microsoft Flight Simulator X, giving virtual pilots an efficient and realistic experience of this well-known airport positioned just northwest of central Los Angeles.

Key Adjustments for Realistic Performance

Runway Configuration: Two core BGL files manage runway operations. You can opt for either the crosswind-enabled layout or the default runway pattern, ensuring flexibility for traffic situations. The files are grouped as follows:

• KBUR_CW_RS.BGL: Activates crosswind runway usage, allowing both runways to function simultaneously.
• KBUR_RS.BGL: Retains the standard default runway alignment, maintaining conventional operation.

Additionally, KBUR_CVX.BGL refines the airport terrain, and KBUR_OBJ.BGL adds objects to enhance the surrounding environment. The assignment of parking bays and ramp areas uses real-world data from the airport’s official information.

Improved Terminal Layout

All gates have been reorganized to mirror the airport’s actual geometry, making immersion more tangible. You will notice expanded apron markings, updated taxi paths, and an array of ramp modifications. This balancing act between realism and performance gives sim flyers a smooth taxiing experience on the ground.

Optimized Ground Traffic Management

Support Vehicle Roads: Improved access roads let ground service vehicles move efficiently without interfering with aircraft movement. Extra fuel trucks are assigned to expedite turnaround times for general aviation and commercial flights.

Helipads: New pads are available, including one complete with a dedicated start location, offering a practical takeoff point for users who prefer rotorcraft. Burbank’s proximity to Hollywood studios often sees frequent helicopter operations, and this update reflects that activity in the simulator environment.

Essential Installation Steps

1. Choose one runway operation file—either KBUR_CW_RS.BGL or KBUR_RS.BGL—plus KBUR_CVX.BGL. Move both selected files into the “Addon Scenery/scenery” folder of Microsoft Flight Simulator X.
2. Place KBUR_OBJ.BGL inside the “Scenery/Global/scenery” directory to incorporate custom objects into your sim.
3. Restart your flight simulator so these changes can take effect.

Reminder: Only a single runway configuration file (KBUR_RS.BGL or KBUR_CW_RS.BGL) may be active at a time. Any duplicates or older AFCAD revisions for Burbank should be removed, as they could create conflicting parking assignments or other anomalies.

AI Traffic Considerations

If you rely on any AI traffic packages, verify that another KBUR AFCAD file has not been auto-installed. Multiple AFCAD layers can disrupt gates or lead to inconsistent runway usage, so ensure only one copy remains.

Those utilizing KBUR_CW_RS.BGL must know that ATIS readings might list “fake” runways to facilitate crosswind operations. This behavior is standard within the simulator’s method of activating non-standard runway alignments. If that is an issue, simply switch back to the KBUR_RS.BGL configuration for traditional usage.

Uninstall Procedure

1. To revert to the simulator’s stock airport layout, remove or delete the associated KBUR BGL files from your “Addon Scenery/scenery” folder and the KBUR_OBJ.BGL file from “Scenery/Global/scenery.”

This freeware release by Ray Smith brings Bob Hope Airport closer to real-world accuracy while still retaining robust in-simulator performance. Despite its relatively small size, this airfield remains a vital transport link for Southern California and is now represented with updated elements that reflect its day-to-day operations.