FS2004 Martinair McDonnell Douglas MD-11

This freeware package offers a meticulously crafted McDonnell Douglas MD-11 in Martinair colors for FS2004, presented by iFDG and featuring the livery work of Vincent v/d Hof. Capturing the essence of a wide-cabin trijet, it showcases advanced animation, highly reflective exterior elements, flaperons, and comprehensive lighting to deliver an immersive simulation experience. This release embodies the operational intricacies of an MD-11 and highlights Martinair’s recognizable color scheme.

Engineering Emphasis and Structural Highlights

Exterior Design and Wing Enhancements

In this simulation model, each control surface, including elevators, ailerons, and spoilers, responds accurately to pilot input. The wings incorporate distinct modifications, such as streamlined trailing edges and modern winglets, which reduce drag and conserve fuel. A smaller horizontal stabilizer with integrated fuel tanks and an extended tail cone further refines the aerodynamic profile, improving range.

Distinctive Trijet Configuration

The real-world MD-11 stands apart as a wide-fuselage airliner equipped with three powerplants. Developed in Long Beach, this model came in multiple variants: passenger, convertible freighter, all-freighter, and combi. Each version could incorporate an extended-range (ER) feature through auxiliary fuel tanks, allowing intercontinental operations. With its three-engine layout, the jet maintained efficient thrust distribution and reliable performance, a concept preserved in this add-on.

Powerplant Choices and Performance Factors

Originally, operators could equip the MD-11 with one of three engines: General Electric’s CF6-80C2, or Pratt & Whitney’s PW4460 or PW4462. These high-bypass turbofans delivered superior fuel economy for lengthy routes. When configured at a maximum gross weight of 602,500 pounds (273,290 kg), the airliner held a range of about 7,630 statute miles (12,270 km) with 285 passengers. With extra fuel capacity and a higher takeoff weight of up to 630,500 pounds (285,990 kg), the extended-range type could span roughly 8,225 statute miles (13,230 km).

Flight Deck Technology and Automation

iFDG’s virtual cockpit modeling integrates a modernized panel, reflecting the advanced digital systems of the real MD-11. The aircraft design replaces traditional instruments with six cathode ray tube (CRT) displays, which consolidate flight and engine parameters to reduce pilot workload. It also features a dual flight management system (FMS) that fine-tunes fuel efficiency, as well as an autopilot offering fail operational capabilities. Pilot familiarity with abnormal and emergency procedures is simplified through automated checklists and system monitoring.

Fuselage Capacity and Cabin Arrangements

In full-scale service, the MD-11 accommodates seating configurations ranging from 285 passengers in a tri-class layout to up to 410 in all-economy designs. Below-deck, significant area for containerized or palletized freight remains available even after passenger baggage is loaded, augmenting airline revenue potential. The extended fuselage dimensions—about 200 feet 10 inches (61.2 m) long—made this trijet nearly 18.6 feet (5.66 m) longer than its DC-10 precursors and enabled transport of additional payload.

iFDG’s Complete Virtual Model

The developmental team at iFDG supplies a base model inclusive of animated landing gear, functional flaps and slats, and wingviews that replicate the real cockpit perspectives. A full lighting suite, including navigation beacons, strobes, and landing illumination, brings night flights to life. Moreover, exterior textures are rendered in a way that captures reflections under varying in-simulator light conditions, adding realism to your flights.

Livery Artwork by Vincent v/d Hof

Martinair, a carrier renowned for both passenger and cargo services, once operated the MD-11 on multiple routes. Vincent v/d Hof’s paintwork reflects this airline’s red and white scheme in extensive detail, with tail logos, fuselage lettering, and subtle markings that match the full-scale airframe. The striking finish underscores the geometric shapes of the trijet configuration, complementing the intricate modeling beneath.

Key Notes for Enthusiasts

This freeware download fuses historical data from the real aircraft with care for each simulated detail. By covering practical range, cockpit avionics, and cargo-passenger flexibility, the add-on immerses users in the demanding environment of a long-haul trijet. Whether flying short regional hops or transoceanic routes, simmers can appreciate the attentiveness to aerodynamic refinements, engine fidelity, and flight deck simulation included in this package by iFDG, with the distinctive Martinair paint crafted by Vincent v/d Hof, all offered for FS2004 through Fly Away Simulation.

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