Simviation Forums

hello all that read this. my name is jeff baker, im stationed at fort campbell ky.   i notice that  there are very few accurate military helo models to download.  believing the only way to fix this problem is to design my own, i started researching the info needed to design my own models.  the only thing ive found is a bunch of jumble that confuses my tiny brain. i would be greatfull if someone would reply to this entry with a comprehensive list of everything i need to get started.  thanks

If you want to design an aircraft for use in FS2004/ CFS2 then you need to use a design program like Gmax (freeware)or Abacus FSDS2.24(Payware). These are 3D "CAD" packages which allow you to prepare a visual 3Dmodel.  When the model is ready, or during construction, you'll need a couple of programs like Paint Shop Pro and Martin Wright's DXTBmp to be able to paint them.

You'll also need an .AIR file, this can be one taken from a similar aircraft and modified to suit. The .AIR file is the file which controls the way an aircraft actually flies in the simulator.

Check out the threads here and the tut's already mentioned in the FAQ's.

Creating the 3D model is just the first part. To make a decent job of it you need to have a good understanding of everything that goes into a typical FS aircraft. This includes the panel, textures, flight dynamics & so many other little things too numerous to mention.

My advice would be to start out by designing or modifying panels, repainting textures or one of the other aspects of the hobby. This won't cost you anything & is comparatively easy to learn. It will also give you a good understanding of the skills necessary to create a decent complete aircraft. Most of the established FS aircraft designers started out in this way. It all takes time to learn & Rome wasn't built in a day.

Looking at the components of the aircraft folders in flight sim will give you a good idea of the end products.