AFCAD File For EFHK Update

Experience a refined layout while flying into Vantaa International Airport (EFHK) in Helsinki, Finland. This update, crafted by Ray Smith, brings expanded runway options and meticulously accurate ground markings for Microsoft Flight Simulator X. You will discover optional crosswind runway activation, numerous parking additions, and updated support vehicle paths designed to align with the latest aerodrome charts. The vantage point from the virtual control tower now provides an immersive rooftop perspective, enhancing your situational awareness when active in tower view.

Refined Airfield Configuration and Runway Options

The revamped files accurately reflect Vantaa Airport’s real-world layout, including recent changes in taxiways and signage. Two distinct BGL files manage the runway usage pattern:

EFHK_CW_RS.BGL

Implements the crosswind runway configuration, letting all three runways accommodate simultaneous arrivals and departures. This approach helps spread traffic across multiple surfaces for more balanced operations.

EFHK_RS.BGL

Matches conventional runway routines. Although it does not open the crosswind runway for concurrent movements, it retains the enhanced ground layout and additional parking resources.

Regardless of which operational file you select, all gate assignments remain consistent. Both files enhance real-world accuracy with ample parking positions for a range of aircraft sizes.

File Inclusions and Purpose

This package contains a total of four BGL files, each with a dedicated function:

• EFHK_RS.BGL or EFHK_CW_RS.BGL – Controls runway operations.
• EFHK_CVX.BGL – Modifies airport terrain and flattens or excludes default scenery elements.
• EFHK_OBJ.BGL – Provides specific architectural objects essential for enhanced realism.

Steps for Installation

1. Remove any previously installed Ray Smith modifications for EFHK. To preserve them, move the old files into a backup folder outside of your simulator directory.
2. Select only one runway operation file (EFHK_RS.BGL or EFHK_CW_RS.BGL) and place it together with the EFHK_CVX.bgl file into your Flight Simulator X/Addon Scenery/scenery folder.
3. Place EFHK_OBJ.BGL in Flight Simulator X/Scenery/Global/scenery.

Optional Jetway Textures

To view added jetway extensions, copy jfk_jetway.dds (day) and jfk_jetway_LM.dds (night) from the FSX/Scenery/NAME/Texture folder into FSX/Scenery/Global/Texture. If you have completed this step for another airport by Ray Smith, you can skip it.

Screenshot of Helsinki Vantaa

Important Constraints

Only one runway file (EFHK_RS.BGL or EFHK_CW_RS.BGL) must remain active within Addon Scenery/scenery at any time. Having multiple AFCADs for the same airport can lead to conflicts. Also, keep in mind the crosswind setup triggers additional runway entries in ATIS communication, which can be disregarded if you prefer the expanded parallel operation benefits.

Removal Instructions

To restore the default airport, remove the installed BGL files from the relevant folders. Once these files are deleted, Microsoft Flight Simulator X will revert to its original depiction of Helsinki's Vantaa International Airport.

This modification, authored by Ray Smith, is offered as freeware to enhance your simulator experience. The airport itself, also known as Helsinki-Vantaa, is situated close to the city center and is the principal international gateway in Finland, handling significant passenger traffic and diverse airline operations. This updated AFCAD aims to replicate the real-world complexity of EFHK, providing a more engaging and authentic virtual flight environment.