FSX Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-200ER

This freeware package features a meticulously refined Boeing 777-200ER in Cathay Pacific colors, perfect for FSX users seeking reliable long-haul performance. Original modeling comes from the renowned work of Melvin Rafi, while the FSX-specific enhancements and conversion have been authored by David Grindele. The result is an aircraft build that retains distinctive visuals, improves flight characteristics, and maintains compatibility with modern systems.

Background

The Boeing 777, often identified as the “Triple Seven,” is revered for its fuel efficiency and extensive operational range. Cathay Pacific, based in Hong Kong, has historically employed the 777 fleet for both regional and long-distance routes. This add-on maintains that realism by matching the airline’s recognizable livery style and adapting the aircraft’s design to FSX’s environment.

Developers

• Original Model: Melvin Rafi
• FSX Updates and Conversion: David Grindele

Key Changes for FSX

• Reconfigured air files for smoother handling in FSX.
• Refined aircraft.cfg settings to match realistic performance metrics.
• Integrated A2A 3D Lights and Redux (where available) for superior illumination.
• Retained signature opening engine cowlings via Shift + E.
• Enabled jetway docking animation through Ctrl + J.

These updates aim to preserve the fidelity of the original design while ensuring you maintain the same visual appeal Melvin intended.

Model Highlights

The external model showcases detailed components, including animated control surfaces. Engine cowling elements open for maintenance simulation, revealing the engines when desired. This attention to detail underscores why Meljet designs are still held in high regard by many simulation enthusiasts.

Though first created for legacy simulators, these aircraft now include improved flight stability and lighting effects. The new 3D lighting setup boosts reflections on the wings, fuselage, and ground, offering a more dynamic environment during nighttime operations.

Installation Notes

1. Copy the “Aircraft” folder from the ZIP file into the “SimObjects\Airplanes” directory of FSX.
2. Launch FSX and select “MELJET” in the aircraft selection menu. Choose the Cathay Pacific 777-200ER entry.
3. No extra steps are needed, aside from having the A2A 3D Lights & Redux software, if you wish to fully experience the updated lighting.

A2A 3D Light Effects

If you have A2A 3D Lights & Redux installed, the enhanced beacon and other illumination effects will provide stronger reflections on crucial surfaces. To install, place the included shockwave 3D effect files into your main simulator's Effects folder. Overwrite the original files if prompted. Always back up your defaults, in case you prefer the previous arrangement.

Tested configurations confirm stable performance on Windows Vista (32-bit) and Windows XP. Additional operating systems may also support the aircraft, but these were the official test environments. Feel free to explore longer journeys or short-haul flights in FSX with this finely tuned add-on, and enjoy the detailed craftsmanship preserved from the original Meljet release. All thanks go to Melvin Rafi for the model and to David Grindele for his diligent FSX conversion.

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