FSX USAF Douglas A-1H Skyraider

This repaint showcases the USAF Douglas A-1H Skyraider in distinctive 1st Special Operations Squadron markings worn during 1972 at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base. It replicates aircraft 37-579, which was among the final group of Skyraiders serving with the 1st SOS and the USAF prior to transition over to the VNAF. Bold squadron codes, a unique non-standard font, and a tricolor rudder band are all featured. There is no base model included; you must obtain the freeware A-1J Skyraider by Tim Conrad from the Fly Away Simulation repository. This texture set is designed specifically for Microsoft Flight Simulator X.

Key Historical Traits of the A-1H Skyraider

The A-1H (commonly known as the Skyraider) evolved from Douglas Aircraft Company’s single-seat, propeller-driven attack platform that excelled in the close air support role. Regarded for its rugged construction and long endurance, it saw extensive operational use, notably in Southeast Asia. The 1st SOS leveraged the A-1H’s ground-attack precision, making it vital for close support and search-and-rescue missions.

Repaint Characteristics

This repaint reflects serial number 37-579, featuring:

• A red, white, and blue stripe on the upper rudder section.
• Authentic 1st SOS insignia and unit markings positioned accurately.
• Non-standard typeface for both squadron codes and serial data, consistent with late-service Skyraiders.

Following operational demands, these specific Skyraiders were among the last ones retained by the USAF until late 1972, after which they were delivered to the VNAF.

Step-by-Step Installation Instructions

Important: This package includes repaint textures only. Download Tim Conrad’s “A-1J Skyraider” freeware from the Fly Away Simulation mod library and install it first. The steps below outline how to incorporate these textures as an optional livery:

1. Extract the enclosed *.bmp files into your main A-1J folder. Ensure “Extract with folder path” or a similar option remains enabled.
2. Open the aircraft.cfg file located in that same A-1J folder, then add a fresh [fltsim.x] entry using the template below. Remember to replace “xx” with the next available number sequence.

[fltsim.xx]
title=A-1H_579
sim=A-1J
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=579
panel_alias=
sound_alias=
kb_checklists=
kb_reference=
atc_id=579
atc_id_color=
atc_parking_types=
atc_parking_code=
atc_airline=Air Force
atc_flight_number=
ui_manufacturer=Douglas
ui_createdby="Piglet's Peculiar Planes"
ui_type=A-1H
ui_variation=37-579, 1st SOS, 56th SOW USAF
description=USAF A-1H 37-579 of the 1st Special Operations Squadron at Nakhon Phanom RTAFB, Thailand in 1971-72. This airplane was later transferred to the VNAF. Repaint by Jens-Ole Kjølberg
visual_damage=1

Technical Notes and Credits

The repaint by Jens-Ole Kjolberg seamlessly integrates with Tim Conrad’s A-1J model, allowing for historically accurate immersion. Ensure you have the correct “A-1J_Skyraider.zip” base package available so that these textures function properly. Once installed, the repainted aircraft offers the same flight dynamics, but visually reflects an iconic sample of the 1st SOS’s operational history.