FSX Northwest Airlines Douglas DC-10-30 N239NW (NC)

Experience a faithful rendition of the McDonnell Douglas DC-10 series in Microsoft Flight Simulator X through this carefully crafted repaint package. Developed by Commercial Level Simulations (CLS) and repainted by Bonnie Windsor, this addition recreates the Northwest Airlines livery (registration N239NW) in the “NC” scheme with authentic detailing. The result is a realistic look that captures the distinctive tri-jet’s exterior features while preserving performance and system functionality. Textures are provided for the payware CLS DC-10-30 model.

Unique Angles on the Tri-Jet Design

The McDonnell Douglas DC-10 represents a classic wide-body aircraft that transformed long-haul aviation from the 1970s onward. Recognizable for its tail engine intake atop the rear fuselage, this tri-jet design allowed operators such as Northwest Airlines to span significant distances efficiently. Throughout the DC-10’s lifespan, Northwest deployed several of these aircraft for transcontinental and international flights, capitalizing on the airframe’s cargo-friendly layout and the reliability of GE powerplants. By replicating N239NW, this repaint harnesses authentic registry data and tail markings that pay tribute to the airliner’s storied history.

Critical Steps for Integration

• Extract the folder named NWA N239NW NC NORTHWEST into the “CLS_DC10_30” directory within the SimObjects/Airplanes path of your Microsoft Flight Simulator X installation.
• From any existing CLS_DC10_30 Texture directory, copy only the BMP files (do not overwrite anything) into the newly created Texture.NWA N239NW NC NORTHWEST folder. This procedure ensures VC and miscellaneous asset continuity.
• Recognize that these extra files are integral for functionality but have not been altered visually.
• Add the snippet below to your aircraft.cfg. Replace “XX” with the appropriate fltsim index, preserving numeric sequence and ensuring no duplicates.

[fltsim.XX]
title=Commercial Level Simulations - DC-10-30-50C Northwest Airlines N239NW NC
sim=CLS-DC10-30-GE-CF6-50C
model=50C2
panel=
sound=
texture=NWA N239NW NC NORTHWEST
atc_airline= NORTHWEST
atc_flight_number=239
atc_heavy=1
atc_id=N239NW
atc_parking_types=GATE, RAMP
atc_parking_code=NWA
description=Commerical Level Simulations
Boeing / McDonnell Douglas DC-10-30
Version - Version-2005.1.1

FSX Only

Engine Type: GE CF6-50C2

For proper operation: See DC-10 manual and performance documentation.

ui_typerole="Commercial Airliner"
ui_createdby="Commercial Level Simulations"
ui_manufacturer="McDonnell Douglas"
ui_type=DC-10-30
ui_variation=Northwest Airlines N239NW NC
visual_damage=1

Additional Observations

This repaint showcases subtle metallic nuances and cabin window placements that mirror the real airframe’s profile. The fuselage striping echoes Northwest Airlines’ later branding, and the iconic red tail remains remarkably recognizable. Every aspect of the exterior paint was refined by Bonnie Windsor to give familiar lines and edging their rightful emphasis.

Since these files solely provide external textures, you will need the original payware DC-10-30 release by Commercial Level Simulations. It is available from specialized flight simulation retailers, including the payware store, SimShack. Once in place, pilots can enjoy a nostalgia-filled experience reminiscent of classic wide-body operations, complete with realistic coloration and airline-specific details.