Piper PA-32RT-300 Lance II N8955C

This repaint package offers a precise blue-and-gray-on-white livery for the Piper PA-32RT-300 Lance II, featuring registration N8955C. Created by Tom Tiedman for the freeware model by Paul Craig, it highlights the unique T-tail structure that defines this turbocharged aircraft and brings a fresh aesthetic to your flights in Microsoft Flight Simulator X.

Background on the Airframe

The Piper PA-32RT-300 Lance II is a further development of the Cherokee Six series, now incorporating retractable landing gear and a more powerful engine assembly. Its T-tail design modifies conventional flight handling, particularly during low-speed operations. With seating options ranging from six to seven occupants, this variation appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy accurately simulating group flights or family travel scenarios.

Key Distinctions of N8955C

This repaint uses a crisp blue and gray theme over a white fuselage. The focus on subtle shading gives the aircraft a genuine visual identity. Pilots will notice detailed textures around the cockpit windows and recesses that emphasize the Lance II's purposeful lines. Additionally, the alignment of fuselage stripes is carefully matched, reflecting authentically on the real-world registration N8955C.

Steps to Add the Livery

1. Place the enclosed folder named texture.Blue Gray N8955C into your existing LANCE II directory. Confirm it resides alongside the other texture folders.
2. Open the aircraft configuration file (aircraft.cfg) in a plain text editor. Insert the following [fltsim.X] entry, ensuring you replace the X with the next free sequence. Then save the file properly.
3. Within the simulator, you will find the new repaint under "Piper" in the aircraft selection menu.
4. Enjoy testing its performance during both short hops and extended routes.

[fltsim.X]
title=Piper PA-32RT-300 Lance II Blue Gray N8955C
sim=PA-32RT-300
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=Blue Gray N8955C
kb_checklists=
kb_reference=
atc_id=N8955C
ui_manufacturer=Piper
ui_type=PA-32RT-300 Turbo (Craig)
ui_variation=Lance II Blue Gray N8955C
description=Blue Gray N8955C repaint by Tom Tiedman. The Piper PA-32RT-300 Lance II is a 6/7 seater aircraft derived from the Cherokee Six utility aircraft but with a more powerful engine & retractable landing gear, this version also has a T tail. Model & textures by Paul Craig.
prop_anim_ratio=.995

Developer Credits and Requirements

This texture set is designed exclusively for Paul Craig’s freeware Piper PA-32RT-300 model. Retrieve the base installation files (PCPA32RT-300.ZIP and PCPA32RT-300_UPDATE.ZIP) from the Fly Away Simulation library if needed. Remember that this repaint does not include the core 3D model or flight dynamics.

All artwork originates from Tom Tiedman, while the fundamental model was supplied by Paul Craig. The outcome is a well-balanced, T-tail Piper offering a superior blend of realism and aesthetic enhancement suited for any pilot aiming to expand their general aviation fleet.