FSX Bell Geospace Basler BT-67 (Tailboom)

This repaint package depicts a modified Basler BT-67 configured by Bell Geospace to carry a specialized gravity measurement apparatus mounted on a tailboom. It is a freeware release for use with Microsoft Flight Simulator X and showcases a unique adaptation of the DC-3 airframe. The textures were created by Daniel Fuernkaess, while the underlying model was produced by Manfred Jahn. Prior installation of the Basler BT67 base pack (developed by Fuernkaess, Jahn, Metzger, and Naegele) is mandatory to ensure this add-on operates properly. This package does not include the core BT-67 model, so you will need to retrieve it from the Fly Away Simulation library if you have not already done so.

Technical Profile of the Basler BT-67 Configuration

The Basler BT-67 project converts the classic DC-3 into a more capable turboprop platform. New Pratt & Whitney PT6 engines, enhanced wingtips, and an overhauled fuselage are part of these extensive modifications. This add-on introduces a specialized tailboom installation for Bell Geospace, which is used for precise gravity survey operations. The gravity system integrated into the tail section helps capture highly accurate geophysical data, making it valuable for mineral exploration and other scientific missions.

Notable Avionics and Airframe Adjustments

In many BT-67 conversions, the cockpit instrumentation is updated to modern standards, improving situational awareness. Transitions from the original piston engines to turboprop power significantly elevate performance, particularly at higher altitudes and in colder climates. The tailboom assembly in this particular repaint highlights aerodynamic considerations, such as additional support struts and a carefully balanced weight distribution, ensuring stable flight while conducting measurements.

Installation and Setup Instructions

1. Ensure that you have a functioning Basler BT-67 base installation on your system. If needed, obtain it first from the Fly Away Simulation mod library.
2. Unzip the downloaded file for this repaint to a temporary location or open it directly in an archive manager.
3. Place the folders named "model.bt67_Bell" and "texture.C-FTGI2" into your Flight Simulator X\Simobjects\Airplanes\Basler_BT67 directory.
4. Open the aircraft.cfg file in a text editor. Then, insert the following [fltsim] entry below the existing ones, making sure to replace x with the correct sequential number.

[fltsim.x]
title=Basler BT67 Bell Geospace FTG
sim=Basler_BT67_v1.7
model=bt67_Bell
panel=
sound=
texture=C-FTGI2
kb_checklists=BT-67_check
kb_reference=BT-67_ref
atc_id=C-FTGI
ui_manufacturer="Basler"
ui_type="Turbo DC-3"
ui_variation="Bell Geospace Aviation"
ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop"
ui_createdby=
description="Bell Geospace Aviation
Paint by Daniel Fuernkaess (Cheese-Strike Repaints). Project BT-67 developers: Daniel Fuernkaess, Manfred Jahn, Alexander M. Metzger, Hansjoerg Naegele."

In-Depth Notes on Repaint Usage

This livery reflects the specialized Gravity Survey version of the BT-67. Any pilot seeking to recreate real-world airborne data-gathering flights might appreciate the extended tail hardware. To preserve frame rates, the additional geometry is optimized to keep performance stable throughout survey missions. If you utilize any third-party flight dynamics modifications, double-check that they remain compatible with the BT-67 base model and the varied structural enhancements present in this repaint.

All credit goes to the dedicated team members: original model by Manfred Jahn, exterior paint by Daniel Fuernkaess, and additional contributions from Metzger and Naegele. Their combined efforts make this gravity-survey variant an immersive experience for flight simulation enthusiasts.