FSX Bill K. Kershner's Aerobat

This fully freeware repaint package features the classic Cessna 150 Aerobat once owned by renowned flight instructor and author Bill K. Kershner, adapted to function seamlessly within Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Created by Mark Rooks of RSDG Rooks Silva Design Group and based on RanchoJEN’s original model, this release incorporates carefully crafted textures that reflect the airplane’s real-world design. It honors Kershner (often referred to as a seasoned "spin doctor") who passed away on January 8, 2007.

Bill K. Kershner’s Legacy and Aerobat Background

The Cessna 150 Aerobat (sometimes labeled the A150K variant) is a specialized version of the classic two-seat trainer, fortified with reinforced structures to handle limited aerobatic maneuvers. In real life, Bill K. Kershner employed such aircraft extensively to develop practical training materials. Students widely appreciated his approach to teaching spin recovery techniques, and he authored multiple instruction manuals. This repaint preserves the markings that once adorned his actual aircraft, offering sim pilots a tribute to his contributions.

Key Technical Highlights

• Accurate Exterior Textures: High-fidelity paint job replicating Bill K. Kershner’s real-world scheme.
• Base Model Integration: Bundled with RanchoJEN's original Cessna 150 Aerobat files for complete standalone functionality.
• Aerobat Structural Details: Reinforced airframe suitable for basic aerobatic tasks such as loops and rolls under instructional environments.
• Dedicated Panel and Sound Suggestions: Uses the recommended panel setup, plus instructions to import default C172 sound (to ensure appropriate audio levels and reliable file sizes).

Special Mention: Support Angel Flight

Within the cockpit textures, there is a notable nod to supporting your local Angel Flight organization. This addition highlights a spirit of community often shared among general aviation enthusiasts and simmers alike.

Installation Steps

1. Backup any original files: As a precaution, secure existing installations.
2. Unzip the download: Extract everything to a temporary location on your desktop.
3. Transfer the repaint folder: Copy and paste the “Bill K. KERSHNER's Aerobat” directory into the main aircraft folder, typically found at:
   C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\FSX\SimObjects\Aircraft
4. Move panel and sound (if needed): Place these contents into the C150 Aerobat folder. The default audio files from a C172 can be added here if the included sound package is incomplete.
5. Confirm texture placement: Ensure the newly copied textures and aircraft.cfg entries are recognized by the simulator.

Acknowledgments

This repaint by Mark “Fire Ball” Rooks of RSDG Rooks Silva Design Group is inspired by the legacy of Bill K. Kershner. Full credit goes to RanchoJEN for the original Cessna 150 Aerobat model. Feel free to enjoy realistic maneuvers and practice spin recovery techniques in memory of a revered instructor who shaped so many aviation careers.

Thanks for downloading and enjoy the aircraft.
- Mark “Fire Ball” Rooks