
hey Flyboy!
The very first think is d/l DXTBmp in order to actually opem the a/c's textures, this program allow U to see the DXT (Special textures with alpha, the reflective ones) and manipulate the bmps, ok?
second, U must have a paint software, like Paint SHop, Photoshop, Corel.
The first thing U must do is to backup the textures UR editing (in order to replace 'em if U don't like the results, believe me, U won't like any of the first results U get).
Start with easy ones, such as Cessna, Extra and while u gain expertice U move to another more complex textures, ok?
Keep posting when somethin bugs U, glad to help!
cya!