De Havilland Chipmunk N26JH Bubble

This repaint delivers an authentic recreation of the De Havilland Chipmunk N26JH, originally ex-RAF WZ860 and G-BDCH, for use with the payware Just Flight rendition. Designed for Microsoft Flight Simulator X and Lockheed Martin Prepar3D, it incorporates a detailed bubble canopy adaptation and faithfully captures the aircraft’s modern-day Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) markings. Restored in 2006 and currently registered in the United States, it represents a timeless trainer that still graces the skies.

Background of the Airframe and Markings

The real-world Chipmunk was produced post-World War II as a dedicated trainer. Though often flown by the Royal Air Force (RAF), some examples migrated to civilian ownership. The particular airframe depicted here was sold to the USA and underwent a substantial overhaul, including the refinement of a bubble canopy (which improves visibility by extending the transparent cockpit enclosure). Under its current registration as N26JH, it flies in RCAF-inspired artwork that makes it stand out at aviation gatherings.

Notable Repaint Details

This repaint, crafted by Peter Watkins, presents distinctive external texturing with correctly rendered fuselage insignia, tail markings, and a realistic bubble canopy shape. It is intended for the Just Flight payware Chipmunk model (not included), which can be acquired separately from stores such as SimShack. Once installed, you will notice subtle nuances on the exterior panels and the historically consistent identification numbers replicated along the fuselage.

Installation Steps

1. Place the “texture” folder labeled N26JH into the “JF_DHC-1-B2 Chipmunk” directory located within your Airplanes folder under SimObjects.
2. Open the aircraft configuration file (aircraft.CFG) that resides inside “JF_DHC-1-B2 Chipmunk.” Copy and paste the code snippet below, adjusting the xx to the next available sequential number.

[fltsim.xx]
title=DHC1-B-2_Chipmunk N26JH
sim=JF_DHC1-B-2 Chipmunk
model=CivBubble
panel=
sound=
texture=N26JH
kb_checklists=Chipmunk_check
kb_reference=Chipmunk_ref
ui_manufacturer=de Havilland
ui_type=DHC1-B-2 Chipmunk
ui_variation=N26JH
ui_createdby="Just Flight"
atc_id=N26JH
atc_airline=Private
description=c/n C1/0887, N26JH was ex-RAF WZ860 and G-BDCH. Sold to USA in July 1975 as N124VH, then to Indiana as N26JH.Completely restored and fitted with bubble canopy in 2006.Currently flies in RCAF markings.

Performance Notes and Compatibility

The repaint seamlessly integrates with both Microsoft Flight Simulator X and Prepar3D platforms, ensuring visual accuracy without impacting performance or flight dynamics. It is especially suitable for enthusiasts who appreciate classic post-war trainers rendered in current-day configurations. With appropriate hardware and graphics settings, the bubble canopy’s reflective qualities and the aircraft’s detailed color scheme will be prominently displayed.

Acknowledgments

Credit goes to Peter Watkins for the comprehensive repaint work and meticulous attention to historical references. The developers at Just Flight provided the payware Chipmunk model used as the foundation, which is required to experience these RCAF-style graphics in your simulator.