FSX RCAF Consolidated PBY5 Catalina

This repaint package depicts a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) scheme derived from Aerosoft’s original shaping of the PBY 5 “Canso” platform for Microsoft Flight Simulator X. It includes custom texture work designed by Henry William and applies unique markings that reflect one of the iconic maritime patrol aircraft used by Canadian forces over various coastal regions.

RCAF Flying Boat Influence

The Consolidated PBY (often known as the “Catalina” or “Canso” in Canadian terminology) has earned a legendary status as a robust amphibious platform. During service, RCAF crews utilized these aircraft for reconnaissance, anti-submarine duties, and air-sea rescue missions. Several variations included different hull designs, but the PBY 5 model maintained its adaptability on both water and land, making it a valued asset across multiple branches of service around the world.

Payware Requirements

This download features textures only. The base payware model, Aerosoft’s PBY Catalina, is required and must be acquired independently from a retailer, such as a specialized store. Without the underlying Aerosoft product, this repaint will not function correctly because it depends on the detailed geometry and systems simulation provided by that payware release.

Texture Installation Instructions

1. Extraction: Unzip all included files into a suitable location on your computer.
2. Texture Folder: Locate the “texture.canso1” folder and place it inside your Aerosoft_PBY-5A_Civ folder. Typically, this is found within:
   C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\Microsoft Flight Simulator X\SimObjects\Airplanes\Aerosoft_PBY-5A_Civ
3. Aircraft Configuration: Open up the aircraft.cfg file in a text editor, navigate to the final [fltsim.x] entry, and paste the provided text block below it. Change “XX” to the next available sequence number to ensure the repaint is recognized in the simulator’s aircraft selection menu.

[fltsim.xx]
title=PBY-5A_Civil_RCAF
sim=PBY5A_MIL
model=Dutch
panel=
sound=
texture=canso1
panel_alias=
sound_alias=
kb_checklists=cat_check
kb_reference=cat_ref
atc_id=PH-PBY
atc_id_color=
atc_parking_types=RAMP
atc_parking_code=
atc_airline=
atc_flight_number=
atc_type=Consolidated
atc_model=None
ui_manufacturer="Consolidated"
ui_type="Catalina"
ui_variation="PBY-5A RCAF"
ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop"
ui_createdby="Aerosoft"
description="The Consolidated PBY Catalina was an iconic American flying boat designed in the 1930s and 1940s. RCAF versions, frequently called ‘Canso’, performed maritime patrol missions. This repaint replicates a historical RCAF scheme. Textures by Henry William."
visual_damage=0

Once the relevant lines of code have been inserted, the PBY 5 should appear under the aircraft menu with the RCAF designation. This allows virtual pilots to embark on their own maritime patrol or search and rescue adventures, honoring its Canadian heritage.

Creative Acknowledgements

This repaint was created by Henry William using the official Aerosoft paint kit. His attention to detail reflects a high level of craftsmanship, ensuring the RCAF markings stand out both at sea and inland. Installation instructions are straightforward, making it easy to immerse yourself in a historically significant flight simulation experience.