Failure simulation. This is what in my opinion takes the DC-9 Classic, and all other addons that includes such a feature, to the next level. Usually when you simulate a system in an aircraft, you simulate ON or OFF in a normal state. With failure simulation a system can also be simulated ON or OFF in a failed state. While OFF is usually OFF regardless of state, ON and failed at the same time is where it can get really busy real fast on the flight deck.

"This is an impressive rendition of a rare aircraft. Although based on a commonly flown aircraft, only four Fokker 60 models were ever produced. Visuals are realistic and accurate inside and out. Flight modeling seems too easy, but the developer says modeling is based on real-data input and pilot consultation. Supporting documents are copious. Tech support is prompt and courteous."

- Bill Stack, flightsim.com.

 Read the full review over at flightsim.com.

"When I do a review I usually type it up and then sit on it for a week or so and use the product more. This way I am sure my review is complete and I’ve said everything I wanted to say. The more I used the F60 the more I liked it. It’s really nice to fly once you get used to it."

- Andrew Barter, simFlight.com.

Andrew Barter over at simFlight.com has written an in-depth review of the Fokker 60. Head on over to simFlight.com to read the full review.

simFlight.com

It's been way to long since I gave you an update on the DC-9 project. I apologize for that. In an attempt to make up for it, I'm bringing you these huge close-up screenshots. The first screenshot shows the First Officer's instruments. The second screenshot shows the center part of the main panel where all the engine instruments are located.

The DC-9 is equipped with the Sperry SP-50 Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS), which is a gyroscopically controlled electromechanical system. The DC-9 is an old school aircraft and the autopilot installed in this aircraft is very much old school too. If you are used to flying with modern autopilots, you will find that this autopilot works a bit differently than the other autopilots you may be familiar with.

Precisionaerobus announces the PAOB Fokker 60 – now available for sale.

Here is another cool youtube video from McPhat Studios showing off the UHDT liveries for the Super 80 Classic and Pro.

Just recently came across an article on the Internet that detailed the differences between the various DC-9 models, as well as the MD-80 series, the MD-90 and B717. I thought it was a very interesting article and I wanted to share it with you.

"It is without a doubt that the Coolsky plane is one of the best aircraft addon for beginners. Its intuitive panel setup and amazingly helpful Super 80 Center with Integrated Cockpit Training System are for sure a treasure trove for those not familiar with jetliner (and MD-80!) procedures. As a result, I highly recommend this plane for beginners, or those that are simply not at all familiar with this type."

McPhat Studios have released a pretty cool youtube video of their livery package World Airliners 2 UHDT for the Super 80 Pro.

I wanted to show you this screenshot of the virtual cockpit to give you an idea of what kind of level of detail you can expect to see in the DC-9 Classic. This is McPhat Studios' first virtual cockpit and they are going all the way on this one to make sure it stands out from the crowd. If you know McPhat Studios, then you know that these guys are all about the details and this project is no exception.

Radio navigation is the name of the game when you are flying a DC-9. Radio navigation, like all new things in life, can be difficult to understand at first. But once you have mastered it, it becomes second nature and you will have a much better mental picture of where you are, where you are going, and how to get there.

What exactly is radio navigation? In short, radio navigation is the art of locating your position on the earth by use of radio waves. Radio waves can be used to find direction (bearing), distance (ranging) and also velocity to or from a station.

I found this old aircraft picture on the internet which really intrigued me. I'm not 100% what type it is but I think it might be the new B787.

"...I am very happy I bought the PAOB Fokker 50.  It is visually impressive, and very fun to fly.  I would recommend it to anyone who likes to fly turboprops.  With the ISG gauge package (sold by another developer), this is a well rounded turboprop offering that will provide hours of enjoyment."

Photo from Wikimedia Commons

With so many aircraft designs flying around, why choose to develop a DC-9 for FSX? It’s a cool aircraft! What more do you need?! Well, actually the logic behind choosing to develop the DC-9 goes a bit deeper than that. I will try to explain.