FSX Easter Island Air Boeing 777-200

This complete freeware package features a modified Boeing 777-200, wearing Easter Island Air markings, that integrates new flight handling, advanced visual elements, and various refinements to ensure smooth operation within FSX. Designed originally by Melvin Rafi (often referred to as Mel), this aircraft has been further enhanced by the dedicated work of developer and converter, David Grindele. Enthusiasts seeking a long-range widebody for virtual flights to or from the remote Easter Island region (officially part of Chile) will appreciate this release, as it brings both reliability and realism to every departure and landing.

Aircraft Overview

The core model is a Boeing 777-200, renowned for its range and capacity. Mel began its development for earlier simulators, and while many of his creations were tailored for FS2000 or FS2002, only limited adaptations were made for FS2004. To extend its longevity into FSX, all handling characteristics and flight dynamics have been carefully tuned. This process involved adjusting the air file and configuration file so the aircraft would exhibit behavior consistent with modern simulation standards.

Key Modifications

• Flight Performance Enhancements: Thorough tweaks ensure the aircraft’s pitch, roll, and yaw responses are more accurate to a 777-200’s real-world flight envelope.
• A2A 3D Lights and Redux Integration: New lighting effects allow brighter reflections on fuselage surfaces, wing structures, and engines. These additions elevate nighttime immersion and complement the overall aesthetic.
• Engine Cowling Animation: By pressing Shift + E, pilots can access maintenance views that showcase the internal turbine details. This animation offers an extra degree of immersion for those who enjoy detailed walkarounds or ramp checks.
• Gate Compatibility: While positioned at the terminal, the jetway interacts with the aircraft by pressing Ctrl + J, providing a smoothly aligned connection.

Additional Details

Although Mel’s designs date back to earlier simulator eras, much of the original precision and artistic detail has been retained. The exterior textures remain crisp, and the improved structural modeling ensures minimal compromises in visual fidelity. This particular livery—showcasing Easter Island Air—illustrates the concept of long-range operations typically seen on flights between mainland Chile and the remote island. As part of the developer’s commitment to preserving these classics, the internal systems have been confirmed to run effectively in both Windows Vista (32-bit) and Windows XP, with testing focused solely on FSX compatibility.

Installation Steps

1. Copy the included Aircraft folder directly into your FSX “Simobjects/Airplane” directory.
2. Launch FSX, locate “MELJET” from the aircraft selection menu, and select this repaint variant.
3. Everything essential is bundled, other than the optional A2A 3D Lights & Redux program. If you install that separate tool, the advanced 3D lighting effects will become active.

3D Light Effects Insight

By using the Shockwave-based 3D lighting elements, even the beacons produce greater illumination on the wings, engine nacelles, and ground surfaces. This visual upgrade is compatible with FS9 and FSX, but remember to back up your original files before replacing them. If you prefer reverting later, you can simply restore the older effects.

Attribution

This project is made possible thanks to Melvin Rafi, the creator of the original model, and to developer/converter, David Grindele, for performing extensive FSX optimizations. They have devoted significant attention to preserving and revitalizing a timeless design for virtual pilots to enjoy.

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