FSX Arlanda Airport Scenery

Upgrade your default FSX rendition of Arlanda Airport (ESSA) in Stockholm, Sweden, with a specialized scenery update that introduces an optional crosswind runway arrangement, improved vehicle pathways, numerous parking allocations, and other precision enhancements. This freeware package, created by Ray Smith, refines overall realism while maintaining easy installation.

Enhanced Arlanda Layout and Optional Runway Configuration

Arlanda Airport Overview: Situated near Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, Arlanda Airport is a central hub for both domestic and intercontinental services. This upgraded package adjusts the airport layout to include additional ground markings, enhanced parking slots, dedicated service roads, and an optional crosswind runway setup under specific conditions.

Dual Versions for Runway Operations

Two distinct RS files are provided for your preference:

• ESSA_ADE_CW_RS.BGL: Implements active crosswind operations for runway 8/26, allowing all three runways to remain open for both arrivals and departures. This variation relies on a special method based on Jim Vile’s technique.
• ESSA_ADE_RS.BGL: Mirrors the default runway usage, keeping the crosswind strip inactive but sustaining all the improved parking features.

Scenery Objects Support

An additional ESSA_ADE_OBJ.BGL file ensures the presence of key airport objects and should be used in combination with either runway configuration.

Technical Details and File Structure

This project was assembled using the latest iteration of Airport Design Editor (ADE v1.47). The approach integrates assigned parking codes, refined vehicle access routes, and vantage points from atop the control tower. A quick summary of critical files:

ESSA_ADE_CW_RS.BGL

Crosswind runway activated, enabling parallel and perpendicular runway use.

ESSA_ADE_RS.BGL

Default operation without crosswind runway inclusion.

ESSA_ADE_OBJ.BGL

Essential scenery objects file (must remain active alongside your chosen RS file).

Installation Steps

1. Pick one RS file (ESSA_ADE_RS.BGL or ESSA_ADE_CW_RS.BGL) and move it into: Flight Simulator X/Addon Scenery/scenery.
2. Place ESSA_ADE_OBJ.BGL into: Flight Simulator X/Scenery/Global/scenery.
3. Begin FSX; the updated airport environment will be visible instantly.

Important: Only one active ESSA RS file should reside in the Addon Scenery/scenery folder at any time. Remove any duplicate “ESSA.bgl” to prevent unexpected parking assignments.

Using ATIS and the Crosswind Setup

If you select the crosswind-enabled version (ESSA_ADE_CW_RS.BGL), you will notice additional references to non-parallel runways in ATIS communications. This is essential for keeping all strips operational. If this is undesirable, revert to the default operation file (ESSA_ADE_RS.BGL).

Uninstalling the Modification

Removing or deleting all associated BGL files from your setup will revert Arlanda Airport to the FSX default configuration. Ensure you clear both the chosen RS file and ESSA_ADE_OBJ.BGL if you want to restore the stock appearance.

Recognitions

Developed by Ray Smith, this scenery includes code elements inspired by Jim Vile’s approach for activating crosswind runways. Airport Design Editor (by Jon Masterson) was also indispensable in creating this adjustment.

Additional Tip for Tower Viewing

When positioned in tower view at ESSA, assign a control key or joystick button for “View track/pan Toggle”. Activate this control to pan around the airport smoothly, then toggle it again to resume the default user aircraft viewpoint.

Enjoy the authentic Arlanda Airport experience, and many thanks to Ray Smith for providing this comprehensive FSX freeware enhancement.