FSX French Air Force Arado Ar-96b

This freeware repaint depicts a French Air Force example of the World War II-era Arado Ar-96b, specifically from 1945. Created by Jindrich Barta (Czech Republic), it delivers historically inspired markings for Microsoft Flight Simulator X enthusiasts who appreciate vintage trainer aircraft. The Arado Ar-96b was originally a German single-engine low-wing monoplane used extensively for pilot instruction, but the repaint showcased here reflects a French service variant.

Technical Background and Key Details

This texture set requires the base model AR96C2.ZIP, which can be found in the Fly Away Simulation mod library. Make sure you have the original freeware Arado Ar-96b installed in your simulator directory before adding this livery. The authenticity of the markings aims to replicate an aircraft pressed into French Air Force service immediately post-war, featuring the characteristic national roundels and proper stenciling.

Livery Installation Steps

1. Download and install the freeware Arado Ar-96b base package (AR96C2.ZIP) in your SimObjects/Airplanes folder.
2. Extract this repaint’s Texture.France folder into the Ar-96b directory.
3. Append the following code to the aircraft.cfg file, substituting X with the next consecutive fltsim number:

[fltsim.X]
title=Arado Ar 96b France
sim=arado96
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=France
KB_checklists=
atc_id=
atc_airline=
atc_flight_number=
atc_heavy=0
ui_manufacturer=Arado
ui_type=Ar-96b French Air Force 1945
ui_variation=Ar-96b French Air Force 1945
description=Arado Ar-96b

Aircraft Characteristics

The original Arado Ar-96b design incorporates retractable landing gear, a single radial powerplant (though sometimes referred to as inverted V-engine in period documents), and a cockpit suited for training operations. In French markings, the airframe retains its wartime performance attributes, including steady handling and straightforward ground operations that are highly beneficial for practice flights. Many flight sim enthusiasts seek this model for its historical significance and specialized role in transitional training.

Contribution by Developer

This particular repaint is entirely the work of Jindrich Barta. By offering it to the Microsoft Flight Simulator X community for free, the goal is to encourage renewed interest in lesser-known aircraft from the WWII era and their subsequent use by various air forces across Europe.