FS2004 Midwest McDonnell Douglas MD-83

This freeware repaint delivers the iconic Midwest Airlines markings for the McDonnell Douglas MD-83 in FS2004. Developed by Daniel Halpern and SGA, this package captures Midwest’s distinctive exterior styling, which was popular among aviation enthusiasts. It requires the original freeware model (available in the Fly Away Simulation mod library), ensuring accurate proportions, flight handling, and aerodynamic characteristics for a realistic simulation experience.

Primary Exterior Markings and Tail Details

Reflective Fuselage Textures: The repaint renders the Midwest logo in high-resolution format, featuring the airline’s signature color scheme across the fuselage. Pilots will notice the subtle fuselage reflections, making the aircraft look lifelike in various lighting conditions.

Distinctive Tail Section: The vertical stabilizer incorporates the classic Midwest design, preserving the authentic look of the MD-80 series as regularly seen in service. This accent was a hallmark of the actual carrier.

Key Configuration Tips

This repaint relies on the flight model and virtual cockpit provided by the original base package. Refer to the code snippet below for adding the texture entry within your aircraft.cfg file. Always ensure the “x” in [fltsim.x] is replaced by the next incremental number to avoid conflicts with existing entries.

[fltsim.X]
title=McDonnell Douglas MD-83 Midwest
sim=MD_8x
model=cone
panel=
sound=
texture=midwest
checklists=
ui_manufacturer=McDonnell Douglas
ui_type=MD-83
ui_variation=Midwest
description=
atc_airline=
atc_id=

Aircraft Characteristics and Background

MD-80 Family Lineage: The MD-83 variant offers increased range compared to earlier MD-80 series aircraft, owing to higher fuel capacity and improved efficiency. Operators prized its reliability, making it a frequent sight across major US airports throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.

Midwest Airlines Heritage: Formerly known as Midwest Express, the carrier was famous for its premium seating layout and unique in-flight amenities. This airline primarily operated routes across the United States, illustrating a commitment to both comfort and service quality. The livery on this repaint captures that legacy, showcasing an understated design combined with Midwest’s recognizable palette.

Installation Notes

• Download the compatible McDonnell Douglas MD-83 freeware base model from the Fly Away Simulation library (not included in this repaint).
• Extract the repaint textures into the correct folder according to the readme instructions.
• Modify the aircraft.cfg file as highlighted above, remembering to adjust the [fltsim.x] number for correct ordering.
• Launch FS2004 and select McDonnell Douglas MD-83 under Midwest to experience the livery.

Performance Integration and Visual Enhancements

This repaint retains the MD-83’s flight envelope characteristics, including its higher thrust engines for improved climb rate and extended range. Engine and cabin sound sets remain compatible, ensuring authentic audio feedback in flight. Meanwhile, cockpit instrumentation is aligned with the classic MD-80 series layout, providing operators a familiar environment for short to medium-haul flights.

Overall, this add-on by Daniel Halpern and SGA broadens any FS2004 installation with Midwest Airlines flair. By applying these textures, enthusiasts can explore routes once flown by this distinctive carrier, immersing themselves in a faithful recreation of the MD-80 experience.

Leave a comment