FS2004 Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana Douglas DC-6B HC-AVH

This repaint package brings the bright markings of the Ecuadorian Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana) to the classic four-engine Douglas DC-6B, tailored specifically for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004. The textures commemorate the airframe registered as HC-AVH and highlight its notable design, originally crafted by Greg Pepper and Tom Gibson, with this particular repaint carried out by Alex Colka. Enthusiasts who appreciate vintage prop-liner aircraft will find faithful details in this add-on, although the core model is not enclosed here and should be sourced from the Fly Away Simulation library.

Technical Insights and Design Focus

The Douglas DC-6B served as one of the era’s most successful long-range piston-powered transport aircraft. Equipped with Pratt & Whitney R-2800 radial engines (defined as twin-row, air-cooled powerplants), it delivered reliable performance capable of covering lengthy segments without interruption. Many aviation operators, including various air forces around the globe, used the DC-6 series for both passenger missions and cargo duties. This repaint captures the Ecuadorian Air Force’s distinctive tail number, HC-AVH, showcasing the national markings that reflect its operational heritage.

Key Features of This Repaint

• Authentic Textures: Color schemes and insignia closely modeled after historical Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana references.
• Realistic Details: Fuselage liveries, fin flashes, and registration lettering precisely aligned with the actual layout.
• High-Quality Finishes: Crisp color transitions and gradients highlight the airframe’s riveted surfaces.

Installation Procedure

This release includes only the external paintwork. To utilize these textures, first obtain and install the base freeware DC-6B model by Greg Pepper and Tom Gibson from the Fly Away Simulation repository. Once that is complete:

1. Unzip the provided texture folder labeled FAE into your existing Douglas DC-6B directory.
2. Open your aircraft configuration file (aircraft.cfg) and incorporate the following excerpt, ensuring continuity of the [fltsim.X] numbering sequence:

[fltsim.0]
title=Douglas DC-6B FAE
sim=
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=FAE
kb_checklists=
kb_reference=
atc_id=HC-AVH
atc_id_enable=1
ui_manufacturer=Douglas
ui_type=DC-6B
ui_variation=Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana
atc_airline=Air Force
atc_flight_number=601
atc_heavy=0
visual_damage=1
prop_anim_ratio=0.3
description=The DC-6 was developed as a faster, larger, and pressurized version of the DC-4 which first flew in 1946. This popular airliner was faster than TWA's new 049 Constellation, and allowed one-stop transcontinental service in 10 hours. When more powerful P&W R-2800 engines became available, Douglas decided to stretch the DC-6 by over 4.5 feet to produce the DC-6B. The first DC-6B flew in February, 1951, and the first operator was American Air Lines. Production of the DC-6B reached 288 by the close of the production line in November, 1958. Produced in parallel with the DC-7 series, many airlines found the DC-6B to be preferable to the DC-7's. The DC-6A was a very similar plane designed especially for freighter service. The reason for this preference is due to the impressive operating statistics of the DC-6B. It had the best operating economics of any large piston airliner of it's time, and passengers also appreciated it's quietness, smoothness, and general comfort. atc_parking_types= atc_parking_codes=

Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana Background

The Ecuadorian Air Force historically operated a variety of transport aircraft for logistical and executive transport roles, and the DC-6B was no exception. Known for dependable engines and a pressurized fuselage, the series performed well in mountainous regions. Through precise replication of markings and exterior finishes, this repaint attempts to convey the legacy of HC-AVH as it would have appeared during active service.

Credits and Notes

• Base model designers: Greg Pepper and Tom Gibson
• Repaint creator: Alex Colka
• The textures are provided free of charge to enrich historical immersion in your simulator.
• Note: The base aircraft model is not included and must be acquired from the Fly Away Simulation library.

We hope this repaint offers a meaningful addition to your collection while exploring the aviation heritage of Ecuador’s Air Force in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004.