FSX Cessna 172 N61BT

This repaint provides a faithful representation of the well-known Cessna 172 Skyhawk in Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Developed by George V. Trovato, it was inspired by a real-world aircraft operated in Florida, albeit with a custom registration number requested by a fellow simmer. After installing this freeware package, pilots can enjoy a new livery while experiencing the classic performance of the Cessna’s popular single-engine platform, renowned among flight schools for its reliable handling and extensive worldwide fleet.

Distinguishing Features and Background

The original Cessna 172 model has been a mainstay in general aviation since the late 1950s, celebrated for dependable flight characteristics and consistent performance. Its tricycle landing gear design promoted safer ground operations, and the robust airframe suited both solo flight practice and cross-country adventures. This repaint depicts the N61BT registration, reflecting an aircraft typically stationed along Florida’s coastline. However, for those seeking a personalized variant, this livery shifts the tail number to a user-requested alternative.

Note on Base Model

Please remember that the base Cessna 172 files (default in FSX) are required. Since this package is a texture set only, you must have the original aircraft installed in your simulator. The necessary freeware base model is available in the Fly Away Simulation library.

Texture Installation Procedure

1. Locate your C172 folder located at \SimObjects\Airplanes\C172 in Microsoft Flight Simulator X.
2. Unzip (if necessary) and copy the texture.N61BT directory into the C172 folder.
3. Open the aircraft configuration file (aircraft.cfg) found in your C172 folder using a text editor (such as Notepad). Avoid using word processors.
4. Append the following [fltsim.XX] entry at the bottom of the configuration sections, replacing XX with the next sequential number. For instance, if your last entry is [fltsim.39], change XX to 40.

Optional Step: In FSX’s “Select Aircraft” menu, consider deactivating “Show Tail Number” within the aircraft’s details section; this often avoids visual overlap.

Configuration Code

Copy the snippet below and insert it as an additional entry in aircraft.cfg. Do not include the asterisks at the end or beginning; they mark the section boundary only.

[fltsim.XX]
title=Cessna Skyhawk 172SP N61BT
sim=Cessna172SP
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=N61BT
kb_checklists=Cessna172SP_check
kb_reference=Cessna172SP_ref
atc_id=N61BT
ui_manufacturer="Cessna"
ui_type="C172SP Skyhawk"
ui_variation=" N61BT"
ui_typerole="Single Engine Prop"
ui_createdby="Microsoft Corporation"
description="A stable and trustworthy plane, most pilots have logged at least a few hours in a Cessna 172, since it's the most widely available aircraft in the rental fleet, and is used by most flight schools. Since the first prototype was completed in 1955, more than 35,000 C172s have been produced, making it the world's most popular single-engine plane. One of Cessna's first tricycle-gear airplanes, the 172 quickly became the favorite of a growing class of business pilots. Its reliability and easy handling (along with thoughtful engineering and structural updates) have ensured its continued popularity for decades."