FSX DeHavilland DHC8-Q311 Four Pack

This freeware package incorporates four distinct DeHavilland DHC8-Q311 liveries, each representing a different regional operator (Air Canada Jazz, Aires of Colombia, Air New Zealand, and BahamasAir). Developed specifically for Microsoft Flight Simulator X, it includes a revised 2D cockpit panel, a fully interactive virtual cockpit (often referred to as a VC), updated flight dynamics, accurate turboprop sound files, and operational passenger and cargo doors. Created and compiled by Barry Blaisdell, Jean-Pierre Brisard, Bob May, Kevin Pardy, and Danny Crance from Premier Aircraft Design, it is designed to work seamlessly with Acceleration/SP2. Please note that it is not backward compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004.

Included Liveries and Flight Deck Enhancements

• Four Distinct Paint Schemes: Reflecting real-world operators—Air Canada Jazz, Aires, AirNZ, and BahamasAir.
• Flight Deck Refinements: A refined 2D instrument panel that integrates engine gauges, autopilot controls, and warning systems. The dynamic VC features clickable switches for main, overhead, and pedestal sections.
• Sound Updates: Realistic twin turboprop audio derived from the model’s specifications, ensuring immersive engine, propeller, and environmental audio cues.
• Functional Doors and Stairways: Passenger entry door with a built-in airstair and a luggage door, both activated via standard key commands (Shift + E).

Key Points and Compatibility

• This DHC8-Q311 is provided as a complete freeware package intended exclusively for Microsoft Flight Simulator X.
• Functionality has been verified in Acceleration/SP2 configurations.
• It does not support Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004.

Installation Guidelines

To simplify the installation process, extract all files into your main FSX folder. Follow these steps:

1. Locate and open the downloaded ZIP archive (using WinZip or a similar utility).
2. Ensure Use Folder Names is checked so that the correct directory structure is maintained.
3. Select all the files within the archive (Ctrl + A).
4. Choose the Extract function and specify your main FSX directory (e.g., C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\Microsoft Flight Simulator X), or browse to your unique FSX installation path.
5. Click Extract, confirm overwriting files if prompted, and the installation will finalize automatically.

Once complete, consult Install_Help.jpg in the aircraft folder if additional details are required.

Operational Notes and Recommendations

Panel Documentation

Open the Panel_Docs folder for instructions and operational details, or refer to the in-sim kneeboard reference.

Door Animations

Use Shift + E to engage the passenger or cargo doors. For audible door sounds, set quiet cockpit conditions before engine start.

Prop Visuals

If propeller transparency appears off, slightly reduce pitch to achieve a more realistic spinning effect.

Virtual Cockpit Position

Raise the pilot seat when needed by pressing Ctrl + Enter.

Performance Hints

Close unnecessary popup windows to preserve frame rates, and employ elevator trim for smoother flight transitions.

Autostart Tips

After using the automatic engine start procedure, confirm that the overhead generator switches are engaged to ensure power generation.

Technical Specifications of the Dash 8-300 Series

• Wingspan: 90 ft
• Length: 85 ft 3 in
• Height: 24.7 ft
• Empty Weight: Approximately 25,836 lbs
• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 43,000 lbs
• Cruise Speed: Up to 287 knots (TAS)
• Stall Speed (with flaps): ~72 knots
• Engines: Twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW123B turboprops (~2,500 SHP each)
• Propellers: Hamilton Standard 14SF-23, four-blade, reversible pitch
• Fuel Capacity: 840 US gallons
• Range: Approximately 954 nautical miles
• Rate of Climb: Around 1,600 fpm at sea level
• Service Ceiling: Up to 25,000 ft

Usage Permissions and Repaints

This software is intended for the private use of flight simulation enthusiasts. Modification or redistribution of panel and gauge files without approval is prohibited. When repainting this aircraft for personal use, no permission is required; however, if planning to distribute or upload repaints, please contact the creators first and provide a sample screenshot. Premier Aircraft Design reserves the authority to review the files before publication.

Authors: Barry Blaisdell, Jean-Pierre Brisard, Bob May, Kevin Pardy, and Danny Crance (Premier Aircraft Design)