FSX Western Airlines Douglas DC-3

Experience a timeless piece of aviation history with this freeware repaint that applies Western Airlines’ retro color scheme to the default Douglas DC-3 in Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Developed jointly by James Eden and Jon Murchison, and meticulously enhanced by Gary Harper, this texture set calls for the AS4SUMJE.ZIP modification to function seamlessly. Once installed, it faithfully captures the look of a pioneering airline from the mid-20th century, honoring the enduring charm of the Douglas DC-3 itself.

Historical Context and Technical Focus

Western Airlines stood out as a major carrier in the United States, connecting key cities across the western states well before the jet era. Their Douglas DC-3 units helped pave the way for modern air travel, combining reliability and passenger comfort during an era when flight was still viewed as cutting-edge. The Douglas DC-3 itself became a global icon after its introduction in the 1930s, boasting a pressurized cabin and amenities that were groundbreaking for the time. With a solid balance of speed and range, the DC-3 established itself as a profitable and dependable aircraft for many airlines, including Western Airlines.

Repaint Requirements and Compatibility

• This repaint is designed for the default DC-3 that ships with the simulator.
• The package references the AS4SUMJE.ZIP update by James Eden and Jon Murchison, which is necessary to enable specific modifications for the default FSX DC-3.
• The underlying model is freeware and must be retrieved from the Fly Away Simulation library if not already installed.

Incorporating the New Livery

Once you have the base model and the required DC-3 update, navigate to your aircraft configuration file. Paste the following lines, ensuring you adjust “xx” to the next available [fltsim] index:

[fltsim.xx]
title=Douglas DC-3 Western Airlines
sim=Douglas_DC3
model=reg
panel=
sound=
texture=wa
kb_checklists=Douglas_DC3_check
kb_reference=Douglas_DC3_ref
atc_id=
ui_manufacturer="Awesome 4 Some"
ui_type="DC-3"
ui_variation=WESTERN
ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop"
ui_createdby="Microsoft Corporation, modified by James Eden"
description="The Douglas DC-3 revolutionized air transportation and airline service during the 1930s and 1940s. It was a luxury airliner that boasted cabin heat and running water in its on-board lavatory. With the right balance of efficiency, range, speed, and payload, the DC-3 was the first aircraft to earn a profit for its owners just by carrying passengers. The hero of early airlines, a handful of DC-3s are still at work today."

Visual Preview

Key Features of This Repaint

Authentic Exterior Scheme

Captures the Western Airlines DC-3 livery with era-appropriate logos and markings.

Seamless Integration

Works smoothly with the AS4SUMJE.ZIP modifications applied to the default DC-3.

Historic Influence

Immerses pilots in the golden age of aviation, highlighting features reminiscent of mid-20th-century passenger flight.

Credits

This texture set owes its authenticity to Gary Harper. Modification elements in the default DC-3 come courtesy of James Eden and Jon Murchison. Make sure to download or have the necessary freeware DC-3 base model from the Fly Away Simulation library to ensure proper installation and compatibility.