FSX Twin Pioneer G-APRS

This repaint for Rob Richardson’s freeware Scottish Aviation Twin Pioneer highlights G-APRS, a unique airframe that embodies an extensive career of aerial survey and transport operations. It is fully compatible with FSX Acceleration and also functions smoothly in Microsoft Flight Simulator X. This particular repaint is the creative work of Peter Watkins and reflects the well-known “Raspberry Ripple” theme. Enthusiasts will appreciate its detailed exterior that captures the classic style of early short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft designs from Scottish Aviation.

Background and Operational History

Identified by construction number 561, G-APRS took to the sky for the first time on September 13, 1959. Initially, it was leased to Fisons for six months to perform specialized aerial survey missions. Soon afterward, it served with Deutsche Taxiflug in Germany, handling air-taxi duties until it returned to Prestwick in March 1961 for a refurbishment.

Following that overhaul, G-APRS flew under lease with Sierra Leone Airlines for one year and, upon returning to the UK in early 1962, transitioned into military hands. The Royal Air Force designated it as XT610 and utilized it for test pilot development at the Empire Test Pilots School in Boscombe Down. Later, it switched ownership to Flight One in February 1975 as G-BCWF out of Staverton, returning once more to aerial survey tasks, this time supporting British Aerospace. Air Atlantic eventually acquired the aircraft and restored its original registration (G-APRS), preserving its busy track record. Interestingly, the Empire Test Pilots School occasionally hires it again, which justifies the distinctive “Raspberry Ripple” color scheme it currently wears.

Key Features of the Scottish Aviation Twin Pioneer

The Twin Pioneer is a high-wing aircraft equipped with two Alvis Leonides 531 radial engines. Its notable triple-tail-fin arrangement, coupled with fixed gear and a tailwheel, offers exceptional STOL performance. During its early trials in 1955, the prototype excelled at short landings, garnering significant attention at the Farnborough airshow that same year. This series demonstrated versatility across both civilian and military fields, with the availability of multiple engine variants, including the Pratt & Whitney Wasp R-1340 powerplant used in the Series 2.

Installation and Configuration

Add this repaint to your Scottish Aviation Twin Pioneer folder within the SimObjects "Airplanes" directory. Then open your aircraft.cfg and insert the text below, making sure to replace “xx” with the next available entry number:

[fltsim.xx]
title=Scottish Aviation Twin Pioneer G-APRS
sim=Scottish Aviation Twin Pioneer
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=G-APRS
kb_checklists=//Twin_Pioneer_check//
kb_ref=//Twin_Pioneer_ref//
atc_id=G-APRS
ui_manufacturer=Scottish Aviation
ui_type=Twin Pioneer
ui_variation=G-APRS
description=Powered by two Alvis Leonides 531 radial engines, the Twin Pioneer was a high-wing cabin monoplane with a triple fin and rudder assembly and fixed tailwheel undercarriage. The prototype Twin Pioneer, registered G-ANTP, first flew at Prestwick Airport on 25 June 1955. Flight trials proved that the aircraft had a very short landing run and the aircraft was displayed at the September 1955 Society of British Aircraft Constructors Show at Farnborough.
Three pre-production aircraft were built for trials, and sales and demonstrations.
In 1958, the 33rd aircraft was used as a prototype for the Series 2 with Pratt & Whitney Wasp R-1340 radial engines which had been ordered by Philippine Air Lines. A Series 3 aircraft was also developed to use the improved Alvis Leonides 531 radial engine.

Base Model Requirement

This is solely a repaint package and does not contain the original aircraft model. You will need to obtain the freeware base model, which is available in the Fly Away Simulation mod library. Once incorporated, you can enjoy the vintage performance of the Twin Pioneer in conjunction with this authentic G-APRS livery. Special recognition goes to Rob Richardson for his freeware creation and Peter Watkins for crafting this impressive repaint.