FS2004 Douglas DC-7C Package

The Douglas DC-7C remains a significant piece of aviation history, known for its extended transoceanic capability and classic piston-driven design. This fully freeware release, meticulously crafted by George Carty (with foundational work from Ken Mitchell, Tom Gibson, Greg Pepper, and Tom Gibson), brings those authentic mid-century airliner characteristics into Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004. Enthusiasts will discover two iconic liveries—Pan American World Airways and BOAC—reflecting the era when propeller-driven craft dominated long-haul routes.

Enhanced Flight Deck and Custom Instrumentation

This package showcases a thoroughly revamped panel, fine-tuned and adapted by George Carty from the original concepts by Ken Mitchell and Tom Gibson. It takes advantage of detailed engine gauges, faithfully replicates the DC-7C’s flight engineer console, and includes a weather radar feature on the navigator’s panel. For those who prefer rigorous realism, the cockpit’s layout follows historical references, including the signature throttle quadrant and classic piston-engine indicators.

Weather Radar Integration

The included weather radar depends on FSUIPC to interface with the simulator’s environment data. In situational awareness terms, this provides a more accurate depiction of cloud formations and precipitation patterns, enabling precise flight planning as you cross oceans or navigate through challenging weather corridors.

Refined External Model and Historical Liveries

The external architecture of this DC-7C underwent further adjustments by George Carty but remains based on the original modeling by Greg Pepper and Tom Gibson. This refined iteration uses true-to-life wing outlines, fuselage proportions, and control surfaces to mirror the actual aircraft’s aerodynamics. The Pan Am and BOAC paint schemes encapsulate the heyday of global airline travel, when these carriers pioneered transatlantic services with elegance.

Installation Instructions

Once you have the compressed archive, simply extract its contents directly to your flight simulator directory (commonly set to C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\Flight Simulator 9\). After installing, you can load the DC-7C model in your aircraft selection screen and experience the vintage routes of these historically significant operators.