FSX USAF Douglas A-1H Skyraider 34-569

This repaint adds the distinctive markings of USAF Douglas A-1H Skyraider serial number 34-569, commemorating the aircraft flown by the 22nd Special Operations Squadron at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base in the late 1960s. The textured design highlights the interdiction operations carried out against enemy supply routes along the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos. The squadron employed the call sign “Zorro,” and for Combat Search and Rescue missions, these Skyraiders became well-known by the “Sandy” call sign. Repaint work is courtesy of Jens-Ole Kjolberg, while the freeware base model for FSX (Microsoft Flight Simulator X) is courtesy of Tim Conrad.

Background on the A-1H Skyraider (Model and Usage)

The Douglas A-1H Skyraider, often noted for its single-seat, propeller-driven attack configuration, was originally conceived to fulfill close-air-support roles. It carried an extensive load of ordnance and displayed remarkable endurance in low-level, high-threat environments. The 22nd Special Operations Squadron took advantage of this robust airframe by focusing on interdiction tasks and supporting downed personnel or rescue missions in Southeast Asia. Aircraft 34-569, based in Thailand, stood out for its effective performance under demanding conditions.

Features of This Repaint

• Authentic Markings: Reflects the paint scheme of aircraft 34-569 from the 22nd SOS.
• Historic Callsigns: Emphasizes the “Zorro” and “Sandy” identifying radio designations used in theater.
• Accurate Placement of Emblems and Codes: Recreated from historical references for added realism.

Required Base Model

This package includes only the texture files. The exceptional A-1J Skyraider by Tim Conrad will be required before installation. That freeware model should be available in the Fly Away Simulation mod library. Once that model is installed, users can easily integrate these new textures to enhance their immersive experience.

Installation Process

1. Extract the enclosed .bmp files to the main A-1J folder (ensure “Install with folder path” is activated).
2. Open your aircraft.cfg file and add a fresh [fltsim.x] entry, incrementing “x” by one from the last fltsim number.

Sample [fltsim.x] Configuration

Copy and paste the lines below into aircraft.cfg (replacing “xx” or “x” with the correct sequential number):

[fltsim.xx]
title=A-1H_569
sim=A-1J
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=569
panel_alias=
sound_alias=
kb_checklists=
kb_reference=
atc_id=569
atc_id_color=
atc_parking_types=
atc_parking_code=
atc_airline=Air force
atc_flight_number=09
ui_manufacturer=Douglas
ui_createdby="Piglet's Peculiar Planes"
ui_type=A-1H
ui_variation=34-569, 22d SOS, 56th SOW USAF
description=USAF A-1H "34-569" of the 22nd Special Operations Squadron at Nakhon Phanom RTAFB, Thailand in 1968-70.
The main mission of the 22nd SOS was interdiction of enemy supplies and personnel traveling the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos. Their callsign was "Zorro". Repaint by Jens-Ole Kjølberg
visual_damage=1

Added Notes

• Historical Context: This aircraft actively participated in operations that supported ground forces, halted supply convoys, and rendered close air support in challenging conditions.
• Callsign Variations: “Zorro” emphasized interdiction flights, whereas “Sandy” was often heard during CSAR missions for downed aircrews.
• Integration with Microsoft Flight Simulator X: Once installed, expect an authentic recreation of a pivotal Vietnam-era attack airplane.

This repaint offers a carefully reproduced aesthetic while honoring the efforts of the 22nd SOS. Enjoy flying a storied “Spad” across virtual skies and appreciate the tradition it represents.