FSX Air France Cargo Boeing 747-428

This comprehensive package brings the Air France Cargo Boeing 747-428 into your simulator and includes the complete Project Open Sky Boeing 747-400 V4 model, along with specialized Air France textures by Paul Craig. This rendition carries registration F-GIUD (construction number 1344) and is provided as a freeware mod. High-resolution 32-bit textures and optional DXT3 textures are incorporated for optimization, plus an operational manual to guide users. Although created primarily with FS2004 in mind, it can function in Flight Simulator X with limited support. Below is a detailed walkthrough of features, installation, and additional information.

Technical Highlights and Contributors

Project Open Sky developed the 747-400 V4 platform, with the main model work by Hiroshi Igami. Flight dynamics were shaped by Warren C. Daniel and Brandon D. Henry, while testing was carried out by Project Open Sky members. The 747 Series Masters are Corey Ford and Yosuke Ube, and the base paint scheme was completed by Ryan C. The Air France Cargo repaint in this package was created by Paul Craig.

Notable Aircraft Characteristics

• Dedicated XML Animations: Implements wing flex, gear steering, and spoiler operations.
• Rudder and Aileron Dynamics: Rudder locks under certain speed conditions, plus ailerons lock at elevated velocities.
• Comprehensive Control Movements: All primary surfaces, including elevators, rudder, and flaps, are fully animated.
• Shock-Absorbing Suspension: Responsive gear contact points with fully independent systems.
• Opening Passenger and Cargo Doors: Multiple door animations (front cabin, cargo hold, bulk cargo) for added realism.
• High-Detail Exterior Textures: Option of 32-bit or performance-oriented DXT3 format.
• Enhanced Night Lighting: Illuminated windows, logos, and other night-specific details.
• Ground Service Integration: Various utility vehicles appear when the cargo door is activated.

About Air France Cargo Boeing 747-428

This aircraft reflects the Air France Cargo operation of the Boeing 747-400 series, a key cargo hauler for long-haul routes. Air France has been recognized worldwide for its global network, and the cargo division utilized these high-capacity jets for extensive freight transport across continents.

Flight Simulator X Compatibility Note

While the model is primarily intended for FS2004, it can be installed into FSX. However, certain visual features and functionalities may not work correctly. The Project Open Sky team does not officially provide FSX-centered support for this version of the aircraft.

Installation Procedure

1. Extract the downloaded archive into a temporary directory on your computer.
2. Locate the Boeing OS744V4 ERF folder within the extracted contents.
3. Copy the Boeing OS744V4 ERF folder into the following path (if using default FSX settings):
   • C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Games\Microsoft Flight Simulator X\SimObjects\Airplanes
4. For better frame performance, move the textures from the DXT3 Textures folder into the Texture.Air France Cargo folder.
5. Copy all contents from the 747-effects folder into the FSX Effects directory, located by default here:
   • C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Games\Microsoft Flight Simulator X\Effects
6. Consult the enclosed documentation for further details on adjustments and usage.

Door Animations

Below are the principal keyboard commands for the various door operations:

Passenger Door L1

Shift + E

Cargo Door

Shift + E + 2

Passenger Door L2

Shift + E + 3

Bulk Cargo Door

Shift + E + 4

This release offers a detailed and authentic representation of Air France Cargo’s Boeing 747-428. It integrates the Project Open Sky foundation with special textures by Paul Craig and delivers highly refined modeling and animations. Users seeking an engaging cargo experience in FS2004 (and limited FSX functionality) will find it a noteworthy freeware addition.

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