FSX Armee De L'Air PC-21

This freeware repaint set offers an enhanced Armée de l’Air (French Air Force) livery for the IRIS Pilatus PC-21 payware model, developed by Dirk Hueschelrath. These textures provide a lifelike finish for use within Microsoft Flight Simulator X and aim to replicate the distinctive scheme employed by the French Air Force when testing or demonstrating this turbo-prop trainer. Refer to the guidelines below for seamless installation, and be aware that the base payware model from IRIS Flight Simulation Software is not included.

High-Detail Texture Options

Two sets of texture resolutions are provided to accommodate various system configurations and visual requirements:

• 4096×4096 (32-bit) – Approximately 65 MB total, delivering the highest available fidelity.
• 2048×2048 (32-bit) – Approximately 16 MB total, offering a more moderate file size.

Both sizes include detailed markings and color schemes reflective of Armée de l’Air standards, ensuring that cockpit integration lines up with external fuselage contours. The larger resolution is intended for systems capable of sustaining peak texture performance, while the smaller resolution remains suitable for those preferring faster loading or reduced storage demands.

Pilatus PC-21 and Its Real-World Role

The Pilatus PC-21 is a single-turboprop advanced trainer engineered to emulate fast-jet handling characteristics. Operating with a low-wing, swept-monoplane layout, it delivers agility appropriate for pilot instruction and cutting-edge flight preparation. Many global air arms, including the French Air Force, utilize the PC-21 to familiarize crews with sophisticated avionics and responsive controls before transitioning to more complex platforms.

Installation Steps

1. Unzip the downloaded archive. Then copy the included texture folder(s) into your Flight Simulator X/SimObjects/Airplanes/IRIS PC-21 directory.
2. Open your aircraft.cfg file, locate the existing [fltsim.n] sections, and insert the following block. Replace “XX” with the next sequential number:

[fltsim.XX]
title=PC-21 Version 1.2 ARMEE DE L'AIR
sim=PC21
model=PC21
panel=
sound=
texture=ARMEE DE L'AIR
kb_checklists=
kb_reference=
atc_id=201
atc_airline=Air Force
atc_flight_number=
ui_manufacturer=Pilatus
ui_type=PC-21
ui_variation=ARMEE DE L'AIR
ui_typerole="Single Engine TurboProp"
ui_createdby="IRIS Flight Simulation Software"
description=The Pilatus PC-21 is a single-turboprop, low wing swept monoplane advanced trainer designed to combine jet training capability with the advantages of a turboprop. ARMEE DE L'AIR repaint by D.Hueschelrath.
atc_heavy=0

Once the entry is added, your simulator will recognize the new repaint in the aircraft selection menu the next time you load Microsoft Flight Simulator X.

Additional Notes

These refined textures by Dirk Hueschelrath transform the IRIS PC-21 into a convincing Armée de l’Air asset. Please remember that this package only includes repainted files and requires the payware model by IRIS Flight Simulation Software for complete functionality. The accurate markings, polished lines, and crisp edging all work together to reflect the unique aesthetic of the French Air Force’s training fleet.