FS2004 Northwest Airlines Douglas DC-9-31 1987

This freeware repaint for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 faithfully depicts Northwest Airlines’ Douglas DC-9-31 as it appeared in 1987. It is intended for use with the base model developed by SGA and requires the SGA930.ZIP package. Paintwork has been meticulously created by Frank Idone, showcasing the airline’s classic red tail and bare metal fuselage. The DC-9 itself, originally produced by McDonnell Douglas, was designed for efficient short- to medium-range operations and remains popular among enthusiasts who favor its compact, twin-engine layout and reliable performance.

Distinctive Fuselage Attributes

The DC-9-31 variant stands out due to its near 15-foot extension over earlier Series 10 models. This extra length provides room for approximately 115 passengers, alongside a dedicated cargo compartment offering about 895 cubic feet of capacity. Northwest Airlines commonly utilized these jets for their strong short-field capabilities, which were greatly aided by the high-lift wing system featuring leading edge slats. Engines such as the JT8D-7 or JT8D-9 typically powered the Series 30 lineup, and a select few, including some in the Northwest fleet, flew with JT8D-15 units rated at 15,500 pounds of thrust.

Repaint Significance

This particular Northwest Airlines repaint faithfully reproduces the airline’s signature 1980s color scheme. It reflects the distinctive combination of the airline’s red tailfin and a polished fuselage surface. The registration number N922RW is retained to add an authentic touch. Since this is a textures-only package, you will need to download and install the main SGA Douglas DC-9-30 base model (found under the filename SGA930.ZIP) from the Fly Away Simulation library.

Installation Details

After obtaining the correct base model, simply extract the repaint package into your aircraft folder and incorporate the following lines into the aircraft.cfg file. Replace [fltsim.XX] with the next sequential entry in your configuration:

[fltsim.XX]
title=SGA DC-9-30 Northwest (1987)
sim=SGA DC9_30
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=nwo
checklists=
atc_id=N922RW
atc_id_color=
atc_airline=Northwest Airlines
atc_flight_number=878
ui_manufacturer=McDonnell Douglas
ui_type=DC-9-31
ui_variation=Northwest Airlines (1987)
description=DC-9 no.271 flown by Northwest Airlines.\nLivery by Frank Idone.\n\nThe DC-9 was designed specifically to operate from short runways and on short- to medium-range routes so that the speed, comfort and reliability of jet transportation could be extended to hundreds of communities previously served only by propeller-driven airliners. Fuselage of the Series 30 DC-9, actually second developed, is nearly 15 feet longer than the Series 10, at 119.3 feet (36.3 m), providing seats for up to 115 passengers and cargo space to 895 cubic feet (25.3 m3). Series 30 wingspan was increased to 93.3 feet (28.4 m), and a high-lift wing system of leading edge slats gives the Series 30 excellent short-field performance. The first of the type began airline service in February 1967. Most of the Series 30s are powered by either JT8D-7 or JT8D-9 engines. Others are equipped with JT8D-11 or the JT8D-15, with 15,500 pounds of thrust. The Series 30 is the most widely used member of the DC-9 family, accounting for approximately 60 percent of the entire fleet.
visual_damage=0
atc_heavy=0
atc_id_font=Verdana,-11,1,600,0
atc_parking_codes=
atc_parking_types=GATE,RAMP

Key Practical Observations

The Douglas DC-9-31 remains a historic aircraft revered for its adaptability and performance in challenging runway conditions. Pilots appreciate its robust airframe and bounding thrust, while virtual flight simmers often admire its nostalgic appeal. This particular repaint pays homage to Northwest Airlines’ extensive use of the DC-9 series, reflecting an era when the carrier connected countless regional and major destinations.

All credit for this repaint’s creation goes to Frank Idone, who has reproduced every detail of the airline’s familiar alloy-bodied jet. If you want a taste of Northwest’s legacy in your Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 environment, this comprehensive texture set will add authenticity to your virtual hangar.