FSX AFCAD Modification To The Stock KRDU

This comprehensive upgrade for Raleigh-Durham International Airport (KRDU) enhances the default Microsoft Flight Simulator X scenery to closely reflect conditions around 2009. Crafted by Kambiz Agazi, it refines gates, terminal structures, taxiways, signage, and additional visual elements so that virtual pilots can experience more authentic airport operations. Users who had a previous version will appreciate the further fine-tuning in this release, labeled v1a. It includes all content from the first version while introducing new improvements and corrections that enhance immersion.

Key Airport Revisions and Improvements

Terminal and Gate Placement

Version 1a fine-tunes all terminal and gate assignments to better accommodate regional airline operations. For instance, commuter carriers such as CHQ now occupy their correct gates, matching real-world charts and official airport data. This ensures realistic traffic patterns and smoother ground operations.

Taxiways and Aprons Aligned to Real-World Diagrams

The release further updates taxiways around Runway 5L-23R to their current layout as indicated on recent airport diagrams. New taxiway signage, reworked aprons, and accurately placed taxiway intersections have been added for heightened in-simulator realism. These adjustments also address previous irregularities on the ramp areas.

North Cargo and General Aviation Refinements

Cargo spots and general aviation (GA) facilities on the northern side of the airport have been realigned to match changes made at KRDU. Hangars are positioned correctly, and additional lighting systems help improve nighttime ground visibility for both cargo and GA operators.

Updated Land Class and Mesh

Southwest of Runways 5L and 5R, you will notice refined terrain contours that eliminate many elevation anomalies seen in the past. This helps maintain a consistent landscape integration, especially for those using third-party mesh enhancements.

Parking Garage Adjustments

Between Terminals 1 and 2, the central parking structure is represented more accurately. This visual detail benefits pilots who enjoy ramp exploration during taxi or pushback procedures.

Previous Additions Introduced in v1

This v1a package retains all changes introduced by the original version, ensuring gate numbering, airline assignments, and cargo spacing reflect real operations. The mod implements runway lighting, approach equipment, and enhanced markings based on official approach plates. Ground lighting elements also appear at normal scenery density settings, and the dual-runway system is configured for full parallel operations with small props and single-engine aircraft often directed to Runway 14/32.

Installation and Removal of Earlier Versions

Since version 1a is a complete installation, you can remove any prior v1 .bgl files before proceeding. Then simply place the new .bgl files into your chosen scenery folder, and activate it in the simulator’s scenery library. A popular choice is the “Addon Scenery\Scenery” folder within your Microsoft Flight Simulator X directory. For best results, ensure this KRDU package loads at a higher priority than any other regional or state-wide modifications.

Compatibility and Recommended Settings

Version 1a has been tested under Microsoft Flight Simulator X SP2. It also functions well alongside Ultimate Terrain X (UTX) USA, Scenery Tech North America, and FS Genesis 10m mesh. The developer optimized airline gate placements for AI packages like MyTraffic X 5.2a and World of AI (WOAI), so correct airline parking is usually consistent with real-world operations. Other AI traffic packages will still work, though exact airline assignments might vary.

Approach Code Modifications

All standard approaches have been revised to align with the more recent procedure data for KRDU. This includes updated ILS transitions linked to various STAR arrival routes. Pilots can reference RNAV approach plates where applicable to follow realistic procedures upon final approach. Precise approach coding has been integrated, ensuring your approaches align with what is currently published for Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

Tools, Credits, and Additional Information

This modification was created with ADE (Airport Design Editor) v1.40 by Jon Masterson. The approach code design is based on detailed reference material and leverages the approach module developed by Jim Vile. The airport lighting design references work done by Jim Dhaenens for supplemental light systems.

While every effort has been made to correct inaccuracies, minor deviations may still occur due to simulator limitations. If you spot any serious issues, feel free to pass them along to the developer, Kambiz Agazi.

Enjoy your flights in and out of this busy North Carolina hub, and experience a more faithful representation of KRDU.