FS2004 Finnair Douglas DC-9-51

This freeware repaint set brings the distinctive Finnair look to the SGA Douglas DC-9-51 within Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004. Released by the original creator Frank Idone, these files include only the external textures, so the base SGA DC-9 model must be obtained separately from the Fly Away Simulation library. Once installed, it offers a detailed representation of the aircraft’s authentic livery, famously worn by the Finnair fleet during this jetliner’s final commercial operations in Finland.

Key Components of the Custom Livery

• Finnair Markings: The design faithfully replicates the airline’s branding specific to the DC-9 era, highlighting classic tail and fuselage insignias.
• Period-Correct Paint Scheme: Strict adherence to historical references ensures that the color placement and style reflect Finnair’s authentic look.
• Dedicated Texture Mapping: High-resolution artwork covers the fuselage and control surfaces, positioning the airline’s emblems accurately for each aircraft segment.

Aircraft Background and Mod Details

The McDonnell Douglas DC-9-51 introduced an extended fuselage compared to earlier variants, allowing seating for up to 139 passengers. This design supported short- to medium-range routes while delivering reliable and comfortable service. Notably, Finnair selected the DC-9 to serve regional airports across northern Europe, benefiting from the aircraft’s ability to operate on runways that limited larger jets. The -51 variant entered commercial service in 1975, powered by JT8D engines delivering up to 16,000 pounds of thrust.

This repaint honors the specific aircraft (registered as OH-LYX) that played a significant role in Finnair’s history by undertaking notable flights toward the retirement phase of their DC-9 operations. Frank Idone meticulously replicated these markings, using references that capture the final look of the carrier’s well-known twinjet.

Installation Procedure

1. Extract the enclosed texture folder into your existing SGA DC9-50 aircraft directory.
2. Open the aircraft.cfg file and append the following code, ensuring your [fltsim.X] entry is sequenced properly:

   [fltsim.XX]
   title=SGA DC-9-50 Finnair
   sim=SGA DC9_50
   model=
   panel=
   sound=
   texture=fa
   checklists=
   atc_id=OH-LYX
   atc_id_color=
   atc_airline=Finnair
   atc_flight_number=
   ui_manufacturer=McDonnell Douglas
   ui_type=DC-9-51
   ui_variation=Finnair
   description=DC-9 no.980 flown by Finnair. OH-LYK flew the last commercial DC-9 flight for Finnair.
   Livery by Frank Idone.
   
   The DC-9 was designed specifically to operate from short runways and on short- to medium-range routes. The largest DC-9 variant, the Series 50, is extended to 133.6 feet and accommodates more passenger capacity. Wing dimensions remain consistent with the Series 30. Engines use JT8D-15 or JT8D-17, rated at 16,000 pounds. Finnair introduced the Series 50 in August 1975.
       

Special Notes

Model Essential

These textures are exclusively designed for the latest SGA DC-9 package. The original aircraft files are not included but can be located within the Fly Away Simulation repository.

Credits

Frank Idone is the sole creator of this Finnair repaint, ensuring a true-to-life finish for virtual pilots interested in reenacting historic Finnair operations.