FSX Extra 300S The Blades G-ZXEL (2007)

This repaint offers a detailed representation of The Blades G-ZXEL (2007) livery on the high-performance Extra 300S, designed to enhance your experience in Microsoft Flight Simulator X. It adds a vibrant layer to the aerobatic aircraft's default model while showcasing the unmistakable style of this notable display team. The repaint was developed by Ben Hartmann of UKMIL, reflecting expert attention to visual fidelity. In real-world aerobatic circles, the Extra 300S is recognized for its lightweight construction, its powerful 300-horsepower engine, and its exceptional control sensitivity—elements that transform this airplane into a formidable contender in top-tier aerobatic championships.

Highlighting the Extra 300S Airframe

The Extra 300S has long been synonymous with precision flying. Builders intended it to react smoothly to pilot inputs, so it excels in tight loops, vertical maneuvers, and other controlled aerobatic sequences. Many competition pilots favor it because it sustains high G-loads and offers a distinct flight envelope that allows precise rolling and tumbling routines. This repaint replicates the iconic colors and markings worn by G-ZXEL as used by The Blades, a team celebrated for close-formation aerobatics in the skies over the United Kingdom.

Visual Elements of the Livery

The Blades scheme features bold color contrasts and markings that align closely with the real-world aircraft. Once applied, it complements the default textures in FSX by integrating special lettering, registration details, and aesthetic touches recognizable to fans of The Blades. Photorealistic shading helps define the shape of the fuselage from various angles, making the airplane easy to pick out in any display flight.

Installation Procedure

Before installing, note that this is solely a repaint for the default Extra 300S. The base model is not included. You will need to obtain the freeware base model from the Fly Away Simulation mod library, then follow these steps:

• Place the new texture folder into your default Extra aircraft folder within FSX.
• Open the aircraft.cfg file (found in the default Extra 300S folder) and insert the following code block, replacing XX with the next available number in your aircraft listing:

[fltsim.XX]
title=Extra 300S The Blades
sim=Extra300S
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=5
kb_checklists=Extra300S_check
kb_reference=Extra300S_ref
atc_id_color=0xffff0000
atc_id=G-ZXEL
ui_manufacturer=Extra
ui_type=300S
ui_variation=The Blades 'G-ZXEL'
ui_typerole=Single Engine Prop
ui_createdby=Ben Hartmann Of UKMIL
description=If airplanes were horses, the Extra 300S would be a champion thoroughbred. It is, in fact, designed to be a champion in Unlimited class aerobatic competitions. The 300S combines light weight, a 300-horsepower engine, and exquisite control harmony in an aircraft that has won several World Aerobatic Championships.

Save your changes and exit. Launch FSX, and you should see The Blades G-ZXEL entry available among your aircraft selections.

Technical Aspects of This Repaint

Ben Hartmann of UKMIL developed this texture package to align with real-life references and color guides. The wing overlays, fuselage stripes, and registration identifiers are calibrated to match the Blades' actual livery. In competitive aerobatics, clarity and visibility are key, so every pattern is placed in a way that ensures accuracy from multiple viewpoints during flight.

Important Notice

These files have been scanned and will not harm your computer. Nonetheless, you accept any and all liability if issues arise. For additional security, always back up your original files before installation.