FSX Lihue Airport (PHLI) Scenery

Enhance your Hawaiian flying environment with an updated representation of Lihue Airport (PHLI) on the island of Kauai. This scenery package refines the layout and adds practical parking options, improved taxiway details, and realistic ground services. The modifications integrate well with the default Flight Simulator X setup, ensuring a smooth installation process. Created by Ray Smith, this freeware add-on includes multiple design files to address different runway configurations, giving you the flexibility to enable a versatile crosswind departure or stick to the default runway behavior.

Visual Improvements and Airport Details

PHLI serves as a vital gateway to Kauai, and this scenery configuration seeks to replicate its real-world feel. Taxiways mirror the latest charts, with crisp signage and strategic traffic flow to reflect actual airport operations. Additional vehicle pathways help support fueling and maintenance tasks, while parking expansions accommodate various aircraft types. Incorporating these enhancements delivers a more immersive Hawaiian flight simulation experience.

Files Included and Their Roles

PHLI_ADE_RS.BGL

Uses a default-like runway structure for your arrivals and departures.

PHLI_ADE_CW_RS.BGL

Activates the crosswind runway, enabling both runways simultaneously for takeoff and landing operations.

PHLI_ADE_OBJ.BGL

Contains all required scenery objects to complete the visual overhaul of the airport.

Using the Crosswind Configuration

Opt for PHLI_ADE_CW_RS.BGL if you wish to enable a dual-runway setup. Due to the method used to incorporate crosswinds, ATIS may list additional fictitious runways. This behavior is normal for crosswind activation and can be disregarded if it does not suit your preference. In that situation, simply revert to PHLI_ADE_RS.BGL to restore the default-style runway arrangement.

Installation Procedure

1. Choose one of the PHLI_RS BGL files (PHLI_ADE_RS.BGL for default runway use or PHLI_ADE_CW_RS.BGL for crosswind). Move the selected file into the Flight Simulator X/Addon Scenery/scenery folder.
2. Transfer the PHLI_ADE_OBJ.BGL file into the Flight Simulator X/Scenery/Global/scenery folder.
3. Start Flight Simulator X to confirm that your modifications are now active.

Ensuring Proper File Management

It is critical to include only one airport BGL file in the Addon Scenery/scenery folder. Having multiple variants of PHLI at the same time may create conflicts with parking positions or runway assignments. If you plan on switching configurations, remember to remove or rename any other PHLI.bgl files you are not currently using.

Uninstallation Steps

To restore the stock airport, remove the modified BGL files from their respective scenery folders. By doing so, Flight Simulator X will revert to its default Lihue Airport layout.

Adjusting Tower View Angles

For a better vantage point, load your flight at PHLI and set the tower view. Then assign a key or button in “Control Settings” to toggle the View track/pan feature. This approach frees your camera from the user aircraft, letting you explore a 360-degree panoramic scene of the airfield. Press the same toggle again to refocus on your aircraft.

Credits and Acknowledgments

Ray Smith developed these enhancements, fine-tuning default airport layouts for a more immersive simulation. Special thanks to Jim Vile, whose crosswind runway activation technique inspired the implementation of dual-runway functionality, and to the ever-patient individuals supporting the development process.

Fly high, explore Kauai’s marvels, and enjoy a richer recreation of Lihue Airport.