Aircraft Configuration Files
The aircraft configuration file (aircraft.cfg) represents the highest level of organization within an aircraft container. Each aircraft has its own configuration file located in its container (aircraft folder). For example, the Cessna 172 aircraft.cfg can be found at:
SimObjects\Airplanes\C172\aircraft.cfg
The aircraft.cfg file specifies the versions of the aircraft included in the aircraft container, as well as the attributes (name, color, sound, panels, gauges, and so on) for each aircraft and where to find the files that define those attributes. Within the aircraft.cfg file there are a number of sections. Brackets enclosing the section name identify the various sections. In order for the simulation to make proper use of any variable, it is important that the variable be located in the correct section. While exact spelling is important, none of the terms is case-sensitive.
Normally aircraft containers are added to the SimObjects/Airplanes folder, however this is not a requirement. The ESP.cfg file has entries in the [Main] section determining which path to search for aircraft and other containers. For example:
[Main]
User Objects=Airplane, Helicopter
SimObjectPaths.0=SimObjects\Airplanes
SimObjectPaths.1=SimObjects\Rotorcraft
Additional paths can be added to this file. The paths are either relative to the root folder of the simulation, or absolute paths -- which can also point to locations on other computers (using the "\\computer name" notation). For Windows XP the ESP.cfg file should be in the C:\Documents and Settings\<user name>\Application Data\Microsoft\ESP folder. For Windows Vista the file should be in the C:\Users\<user name>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\ESP folder.
See Also
Flight Models
Notes on Aircraft Systems
Simulation Object Configuration Files
Sound Configuration Files
SDK Overview
Table of Contents
Testing Changes to aircraft.cfg
Datum Reference Point
Sections of the Configuration File
[airplane_geometry]
[airspeed_indicators]
[altimeters]
[anemometers]
[antidetonation system]
[attitude_indicators]
[autopilot]
[brakes]
[cameradefinition.n]
[contact_points]
[deice_system]
[direction_indicators]
[effects]
[electrical]
[exits]
[flaps.n]
[flight_tuning]
[fltsim.n]
[folding_wings]
[forcefeedback]
[fuel]
[gear_warning_system]
[general]
[generalenginedata]
[gpws]
[hydraulic_system]
[jet_engine]
[keyboard_response]
[launch_assistance]
[lights]
[magneticcompass]
[nitrous system]
[piston_engine]
[pitot_static]
[pneumatic_system]
[pressurization]
[propeller]
[radios]
[realismconstants]
[reference speeds]
[smokesystem]
[stall_warning]
[tailhook]
[turbineenginedata]
[turboprop_engine]
[turn_indicators]
[vacuum_system]
[variometers]
[views]
[voicealerts]
[water ballast system]
[weight_and_balance]
[yaw_string]
Helicopter Specific Sections
[fuselage_aerodynamics]
[helicopter]
[mainrotor]
[secondaryrotor]
[sling]
[turboshaft_engine]
The Kneeboard, Model, Sound, Texture and Panel files
The Kneedboard Content Files
The Panel cfg File
The Model cfg File
The Sound cfg File
The Texture Folder
Notes on using Aliasing
Testing Changes to the aircraft.cfg file
To see the effects of a change, the aircraft must be reloaded (this is because aircraft are loaded into the memory cache from disk, so you have to flush the cache to enable your changes to take effect). This involves a couple of steps:
Configure a key command to Reload User Aircraft (which will reload your aircraft from within the simulation). To do this go to Settings, Controls Assignments, and scroll down to the Reload User Aircraft event. By default, it’s unassigned. Use Change Assignment to configure a keystroke combination for this event. Once assigned, you can use this key command to reload the aircraft within the simulation.
Turn off AI Traffic. AI traffic aircraft are maintained in the cache and even if you update the aircraft you are currently piloting, if the same aircraft is being used by AI traffic, then your cache won’t get updated automatically by simply reloading the plane. So to ensure your aircraft is reloaded from disk, you must also go to the Settings Screen, choose Traffic, and set the Air Traffic Density slider all the way to the left to 0%.
Now you can test changes made to an aircraft.cfg within the simulation by using the Reload User Aircraft key command after each change, or set of changes, is made.
Any errors made in creating or editing the aircraft.cfg file will show up, along with the following error messages, while an aircraft is being loaded. The error messages are listed in order; that is, the first error message represents an error early in the aircraft-loading process.
Error Message Description
Aircraft initialization failure. Indicates that some essential files are missing from the aircraft container. If the files are missing, the aircraft will not usually be displayed in the Select Aircraft dialog box; as a result, this error is rare.
Failed to start up the flight model. The .air file was not loaded successfully.
This is not a Flight Simulator aircraft model. The visual model (.mdl) file for this aircraft is not compatible with ESP.
Visual model could not be displayed. An error occurred while loading the visual model (.mdl) file.
Datum Reference Point
Positions of aircraft components are given relative to the datum reference point for the aircraft, in the order: longitudinal, lateral, vertical. The convention for positions is positive equals forward, to the right, and vertically upward. Units are in feet.
The datum reference point itself is specified in the weight_and_balance section.
Sections of the Configuration File
[fltsim.n]
Each [fltsim.n] section of an aircraft configuration file represents a different version (configuration) of the aircraft, and is known as a configuration set. Configuration sets allow a single aircraft container to represent several aircraft, and allow those aircraft to share components.
If there is only one section (labeled [fltsim.0]), it is because there is only one configuration set in that aircraft container. If there is more than one configuration set (labeled [fltsim.0], [fltsim.1], [fltsim.2], and so on), each one refers to a different version of the aircraft.
For instance, there are several versions of the Cessna 172, all housed in the same C172 aircraft container (folder). The various versions must vary by their title, and may also vary other items such as the panel, description, and sounds.
While these configuration sets share many components, they can each use different panels. The panel= line in the respective fltsim sections thus refer to the respective panel folder for each aircraft: For example, panel=ifr means that this version of the C172 uses the panel files in the panel.ifr subfolder.
When creating and referencing multiple model, panel, sound, and texture directories, use the naming convention foldername.extension, where the extension is a unique identifier for that configuration set (for example, .ifr). To refer to the folder from the relevant parameter in the aircraft.cfg file, just specify the extension (for example, panel=ifr). If a parameter is not explicitly set it automatically refers to the default (extension-less) folder.
The parameters in each configuration set can refer to the same files, to different files, or to a mix of files. While using different panels, all Cessna configurations use the same sounds, and thus the sound parameters in all the fltsim sections point to the single sound folder in the C172 folder.
Each aircraft defined by a configuration set will appear as a separate listing in the Select Aircraft dialog box. The fact that multiple aircraft share some components is hidden from the user. From a user’s perspective, they are distinct aircraft (just as if all the common files were duplicated and included in three distinct aircraft containers). From a developer’s perspective, the aircraft are really just different configuration sets of the same aircraft. Because they share some files, they make much more efficient use of disk space.
Within each [fltsim.n] section are parameters that define the details of that particular configuration set:
Property
Description
Examples
title The title of the aircraft. Airbus A321( title=Airbus A321 )
Aircreation582SL( title= Aircreation582SL )
Boeing 737-800( title=Boeing 737-800 )
Boeing 747-400( title=Boeing 747-400 )
sim Specifies which AIR (flight model) file to use. The file is located in the same folder as the aircraft configuration file. Refer to Flight Models for details on how to create an AIR file. Airbus A321( sim=Airbus_A321 )
Aircreation582SL( sim=trike )
Boeing 737-800( sim=Boeing737-800 )
Boeing 747-400( sim=Boeing747-400 )
model Specifies which model folder to reference. If no entry is made, the default folder is used. Airbus A321( model= )
panel Specifies which panel folder to reference. Airbus A321( panel= )
Beech Baron 58( panel=g1000 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( panel=G1000 )
sound Specifies which sound folder to reference. Airbus A321( sound= )
texture Specifies which texture folder to reference. Airbus A321( texture= )
Aircreation582SL( texture=1 )
Boeing 737-800( texture=2 )
Boeing 747-400( texture=3 )
kb_checklists Specifies which _check.txt file (located in the aircraft folder) to use on the Checklists tab of the kneeboard. Boeing 737-800( kb_checklists=Boeing737-800_check )
Boeing 747-400( kb_checklists=Boeing747-400_check )
Beech Baron 58( kb_checklists=Beech_Baron_58_check )
kb_reference Specifies which _ref.txt file (located in the aircraft folder) to use on the Reference tab of the kneeboard. Boeing 737-800( kb_reference=Boeing737-800_ref )
Boeing 747-400( kb_reference=Boeing747-400_ref )
Beech Baron 58( kb_reference=Beech_Baron_58_ref )
atc_id The tail number displayed on the exterior of the aircraft. This parameter can also be edited from the Select Aircraft dialog (if the atc_id_enable parameter is set to 1). Note that custom tail numbers burned into textures will not be modified by this. Boeing 737-800( atc_id=N737Z )
Boeing 747-400( atc_id=N747 )
Beech Baron 58( atc_id=N058BE )
atc_airline The ATC system will use the specified airline name with this aircraft. This is dependant on ATC recognizing the name. ATC will treat this aircraft as an airliner when this is used in conjunction with atc_flight_number. Boeing 737-800( atc_airline=American Pacific )
Boeing 747-400( atc_airline=Global Freightways )
Cessna Grand Caravan( atc_airline=Landmark )
atc_flight_number The ATC system will use this number as part of the aircrafts callsign. ATC will treat this aircraft as an airliner when this is used in conjunction with atc_airline. Boeing 737-800( atc_flight_number=1123 )
ui_manufacturer This value identifies the manufacturer sub-category used to group aircraft in the Select Aircraft dialog in ESP. Airbus A321( ui_manufacturer="Airbus" )
Aircreation582SL( ui_manufacturer="AirCreation" )
Boeing 737-800( ui_manufacturer="Boeing" )
Beech Baron 58( ui_manufacturer="Beechcraft" )
ui_type This value identifies the type sub-category used to group aircraft in the Select Aircraft dialog in ESP. Airbus A321( ui_type="A321" )
Aircreation582SL( ui_type= "582 SL Trike" )
Boeing 737-800( ui_type="737-800" )
Boeing 747-400( ui_type="747-400" )
ui_variation This value identifies the variation sub-category used to group aircraft in the Select Aircraft dialog in ESP. Aircreation582SL( ui_variation="Green Wing" )
Boeing 737-800( ui_variation="American Pacific Airways" )
Boeing 747-400( ui_variation="Global Freightways" )
ui_typerole This value identifies the role of the aircraft. Airbus A321( ui_typerole="Commercial Airliner" )
Aircreation582SL( ui_typerole="Single Engine Prop" )
Beech Baron 58( ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop" )
Beech King Air 350( ui_typerole="Twin Engine TurboProp" )
ui_createdby This value is used to identify the creator of the configuration file. Airbus A321( ui_createdby="Microsoft Corporation" )
description The aircraft description can be modified to say whatever you like about the aircraft. This information will be displayed in a description box when the aircraft is selected. (The \s is used to produce a semicolon ( ; ) punctuation mark within the description.). Boeing 737-800( description="One should hardly be surprised that the world's most prolific manufacturer of commercial aircraft is also the producer of the world's most popular jetliner. The 737 became the best-selling commercial jetliner worldwide when orders for it hit 1,831 in June 1987 (surpassing Boeing's own 727 as the previous champ). However, it wasn't always that way\s in the first few years of production, there were so few orders that Boeing considered canceling the program. They didn't, and the airplane has more than proven itself in over three decades of service." )
Boeing 747-400( description="More than 30 years ago, the 747 made its first trip from New York to London. Since then, it's become the standard by which other large passenger jets are judged. Its size, range, speed and capacity were then, and are now, the best in its class." )
visual_damage Setting this flag to 1 enables visual damage (e.g. parts breaking off) to be seen when crashing the aircraft into the scenery. Note: visual damage will only work if it is built into the aircrafts .mdl file. Aircreation582SL( visual_damage=1 )
atc_heavy Setting this flag to 1 will result in the ATC system appending the phrase heavy to the aircrafts callsign. Aircreation582SL( atc_heavy=0 )
Boeing 747-400( atc_heavy=1 )
atc_parking_types Specifies the preferred parking for this aircraft, used by ATC. If this line is omitted, ATC will determine parking according to the type of aircraft and parking available. If multiple values are listed, preference will be given in the order in which they are listed. The valid values may be one or more of the following: RAMP, CARGO, GATE, DOCK, MIL_CARGO, MIL_COMBAT. Aircreation582SL( atc_parking_types=RAMP )
Boeing 747-400( atc_parking_types=CARGO )
de Havilland Dash 8-100( atc_parking_types=GATE,RAMP )
atc_parking_codes Specifies one or more ICAO airline designations so that ATC can direct the aircraft to a gate that has also been designated specifically for that same airline, for example, "AAL" for American Airlines. Refer to the example XML for the TaxiwayParking entry in the Compiling BGL document. The codes entered in the airlineCodes entry should match the text entered here. The ICAO codes do not have to be used, and can be as short as one character, as long as the text strings match, but for clarity use of the ICAO codes is recommended.
If mutliple parking codes are entered, separate them with commas.
atc_id_color Specifies, in RGB hexadecimal, the color of the tail number. The first two characters following the 0x specify the red value in hex, the second two characters the green, and the third set the blue. The final two characters are unused. Each value can be between 0 to ff hex, which is 0 to 255 decimal. Note that custom tail numbers burned into textures will not be modified by this. Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( atc_id_color=0xffffffff )
Cessna Grand Caravan( atc_id_color=0xff000000 )
Extra 300S( atc_id_color=0xffff0000 )
prop_anim_ratio The ratio of rotor revolutions rendered to the actual revolutions in the simulator. Bell 206B JetRanger( prop_anim_ratio=-1.76 )
atc_model This is the specific aircraft model that the ATC system recognizes for this type of aircraft. Bell 206B JetRanger( atc_model= )
[general]
In addition to the fltsim sections, the general section contains information related to all variations of the aircraft.
Property
Description
Examples
atc_type This is the specific aircraft type that the ATC system recognizes for this type of aircraft. Aircreation582SL( atc_type=Ultralight )
Boeing 737-800( atc_type=BOEING )
Beech Baron 58( atc_type=BARON )
atc_model This is the specific aircraft model that the ATC system recognizes for this type of aircraft. Aircreation582SL( atc_model=Trike )
Boeing 737-800( atc_model=B738 )
Boeing 747-400( atc_model=B744 )
editable Unused.
performance The performance description for the aircraft can be edited. The \t is a tab character, and the \n is a new-line character. As the flight model for all variations is the same, the performance of each variation should also be identical. Aircreation582SL( performance="Wing span: 10.6 m\nLength: 2.57 m\nWeight: 1.96 m\nHeight: 2.57 m\nEngine: 582 Rotax 1 x CDI 53 hp\nPropeller: 2 wood blades\nFuel tank composite 52 liters ( 8 US Gal)\nDesigner: MJPP Design\nDate: 15\/11\/02\n\n" )
Boeing 737-800( performance="Cruise Speed \n477 kts 550 mph 885 km\/h\n\nEngines \nCFM56-3C1\n\nMaximum Range \n2,059 nm 2,370 mi 3,810 km\n\nService Ceiling \n36, 089 ft 11,000 m\n\nFuel Capacity \n5,311 U.S. gal 20,104 L\n\nEmpty Weight-Standard \n76,180 lb 34,550 kg\n\nMaximum Gross Weight\n150,000 lb 68,039 kg\n\nLength \n120 ft 36.45 m\n\nWingspan \n94 ft, 9 in 25.9 m\n\nHeight \n36.5 ft 11.13 m\n\nSeating \nSeats 147 to 168\n\nCargo Capacity \n1,373 ft3 38.93 m3\n\n" )
Boeing 747-400( performance="Cruise Speed\n0.85 Mach 565 mph 910 km\/h\n\nEngine options\nPratt & Whitney PW4062\nRolls-Royce RB211-524H\nGeneral Electric CF6-80C2B5F\n\nMaximum Range\n7,325 nm 13,570 km\n\nMaximum Certified Operating Altitude 45,100 ft 13,747 m\n\nFuel Capacity\n57,285 gal 216,840 L\n\nBasic Empty Weight\n394,088 lb 178,755 kg\n\nMax Gross Weight 875,000 lb 396,893 kg\n\nLength\n231 ft, 10 in 70.6 m\n\nWingspan\n211 ft, 5 in 64.4 m\n\nHeight\n63 ft, 8 in 19.4 m\n\nSeating Typical 3-class configuration - 416\nTypical 2-class configuration - 524" )
category For aircraft, one of airplane or helicopter. Airbus A321( Category = airplane )
Maule M7 260C( category = Airplane )
Bell 206B JetRanger( Category = Helicopter )
[pitot_static]
The vertical_speed_time_constant parameter can be used to tune the lag of the Vertical Speed Indicator for the aircraft:
Increasing the time constant decreases the lag, making the gauge react more quickly.
Decreasing the time constant increases the lag, making the gauge react more slowly.
A value of 0 effectively causes the indication to freeze. If an instantaneous indication is desired, use an excessively large value, such as 99.
If the line is omitted, the default value is 2.0.
Property
Description
Examples
vertical_speed_time_constant Increases or decreases the lag of the vertical speed indicator. Increasing will cause a more instantaneous reaction in the VSI. Airbus A321( vertical_speed_time_constant = 1 )
Beech Baron 58( vertical_speed_time_constant = 1.0 )
Sailplane( vertical_speed_time_constant = 4 )
pitot_heat Scale of heat effectiveness, or 0 if not available. Airbus A321( pitot_heat = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( pitot_heat=0.000000 )
Sailplane( pitot_heat = 0.0 )
[weight_and_balance]
The weight and center of gravity of the aircraft can be affected through the following parameters.
Note
In the stock aircraft, the station_load.0, 1, etc. parameters are enclosed in quotation marks. These are used by internal language translation tools.
Moments of Inertia
A moment of inertia (MOI) defines the mass distribution about an axis of an aircraft. A moment of inertia for a particular axis is increased as mass is increased and/or as the given mass is distributed farther from the axis. This is largely what determines the inertial characteristics of the aircraft.
The following weight and balance parameters define the MOIs of the empty aircraft, so the values should not reflect fuel, passengers or baggage. The simulation engine determines the total MOIs with these additional, and variable, influences. The units are slugs per foot squared. Omission of a parameter will result in the use of a default value set in the .air file, if one exists.
These values can be estimated with the following formula:
MOI = EmptyWeight * (D^2 / K)
Where:
Pitch Roll Yaw
D = Length (feet) Wingspan (feet) 0.5* (Length+Wingspan)
K = 810 1870 770 This formula yields only rough estimates. Actual values vary based on aircraft material, installed equipment, and number of engines and their positions.
Property
Description
Examples
max_gross_weight Maximum design gross weight of the aircraft. Airbus A321( max_gross_weight = 150000 )
Aircreation582SL( max_gross_weight= 600.000 )
Boeing 747-400( max_gross_weight = 875000 )
Beech Baron 58( max_gross_weight = 5524 )
empty_weight Total weight (in pounds) of the aircraft minus usable fuel, passengers, and cargo. If not specified, the value previously set in the .air file will be used. Airbus A321( empty_weight = 74170 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight= 310.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight = 394088 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight = 3911 )
reference_datum_position Offset (in feet) of the aircraft's reference datum from the standard center point, which is on the centerline chord aft of the leading edge. By adjusting this position, actual aircraft loading data can be used directly according to the aircraft's manufacturer. If not specified, the default is 0,0,0. Aircreation582SL( reference_datum_position= 0.000, 0.000, 0.000 )
Boeing 747-400( reference_datum_position = 83.5, 0, 0 )
Beech Baron 58( reference_datum_position = 6.96, 0, 0 )
empty_weight_cg_position Offset (in feet) of the center of gravity of the basic empty aircraft (no fuel, passengers, or baggage) from the datum reference point . Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_CG_position= 0.000, 0.000, 0.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight_CG_position = -90.5, 0, 0 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_CG_position = -6.06, 0, 0 )
max_number_of_stations Specifies the maximum number of stations (specific locations) for the aircraft when it is loaded. This does allow an unlimited number of stations to be specified, but note that an excessively large number here results in a longer load time for the aircraft when selected, although there is no effect on real-time performance. Airbus A321( max_number_of_stations = 50 )
Aircreation582SL( max_number_of_stations=50 )
Douglas DC-3( max_number_of_stations =50 )
station_load.0
to
station_load.n Specifies the weight and position of passengers or payload at a station specified with a unique number, station_load.N. The first parameter number on each line specifies the weight (in pounds), followed by the offset relative to datum reference point. The addition of stations results in a corresponding change in aircraft flight dynamics due to the change of the total weight and moments of inertia. Airbus A321( station_load.0 = 170.0, 41.0, -1.5, 0.0 )
Aircreation582SL( station_load.0=0.000000,0.000000,0.000000,0.000000 )
Boeing 747-400( station_load.0 = 170.0, -19.0, -2.0, 8.0 )
Beech Baron 58( station_load.0 = 170, -6.54, -1.20, 0.0 )
Airbus A321( station_load.8 = 4000.0, -27.5, 0.0, 0.0 )
Boeing 747-400( station_load.8 = 23800.0, -160.0, 0.0, 0.0 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( station_load.8 = 0, -23.2, -1.5, 0.0 )
Douglas DC-3( station_load.8 = 340.0, -33.7, 0.0, 0.0 )
station_name.0
to
station_name.n This field is the string name that is used in the Payload dialog (15 character limit). Omission of this will result in a generic station name being used.
Note that the station name can also follow the station_load information, for example:
Airbus A321( station_load.0 = 170.0, 41.0, -1.5, 0.0, Pilot) McDonnell-Douglas/Boeing MD-83( station_name.0 = "Payload" )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( station_name.1 = "Front Passenger" )
Airbus A321( station_name.0 = "Pilot" )
Airbus A321( station_name.1 = "Co-Pilot" )
Airbus A321( station_name.2 = "Crew" )
Airbus A321( station_name.3 = "First Class" )
Airbus A321( station_name.4 = "Coach 3-10" )
Airbus A321( station_name.5 = "Coach 11-18" )
Airbus A321( station_name.6 = "Coach 19-25" )
Airbus A321( station_name.7 = "Forward Baggage" )
Airbus A321( station_name.8 = "Aft Baggage" )
empty_weight_pitch_moi The moment of inertia (MOI) about the lateral axis. Airbus A321( empty_weight_pitch_MOI = 3172439 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_pitch_MOI= 230.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight_pitch_MOI = 24223159 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_pitch_MOI = 3905.65 )
empty_weight_roll_moi The moment of inertia (MOI) about the longitudinal axis. Airbus A321( empty_weight_roll_MOI = 2262183 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_roll_MOI= 205.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight_roll_MOI = 13352310 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_roll_MOI = 2718.64 )
empty_weight_yaw_moi The moment of inertia (MOI) about the vertical axis. Airbus A321( empty_weight_yaw_MOI = 3337024 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_yaw_MOI= 290.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight_yaw_MOI = 39531785 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_yaw_MOI = 5291.04 )
empty_weight_coupled_moi The moment of inertia (MOI) about the roll and yaw axis (usually zero). Airbus A321( empty_weight_coupled_MOI = 0 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_coupled_MOI= 0.000 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_coupled_MOI= 0.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( empty_weight_coupled_MOI = 0.0 )
[flight_tuning]
Flight control effectiveness parameters
The elevator, aileron and elevator effectiveness parameters are multipliers on the default power of the control surfaces. For example, a value of 1.1 increases the effectiveness by 10 percent. Likewise, a value of 0.9 decreases the effectiveness by 10 percent. A negative number reverses the normal effect of the control. Omission of a parameter results in the default value of 1.0.
Stability parameters
The pitch, roll and yaw parameters are multipliers on the default stability (damping effect) about the corresponding axis of the airplane. For example, a value of 1.1 increases the damping by 10%. Likewise, a value of 0.9 decreases the damping by 10%. A negative number results in an unstable characteristic about the axis. A positive damping effect is simply a moment in the direction opposite of the rotational velocity. Omission of a parameter will result in the default value of 1.0.
Lift parameter
The cruise_lift_scalar parameter is a multiplier on the coefficient of lift at zero angle of attack Cruise lift in this context refers to the lift at relatively small angles of attack, which is typical for an airplane in a cruise condition. This scaling is decreased linearly as angle of attack moves toward the critical (stall) angle of attack, which prevents destabilizing low speed and stall characteristics at high angles of attack. Modify this value to set the angle of attack (and thus pitch) for a cruise condition. A negative value is not advised, as this will result in extremely unnatural flight characteristics. Omission of this parameter results in the default value of 1.0.
High Angle of Attack parameters
The hi_alpha_on_roll and hi_alpha_on_yaw parameters are multipliers on the effects on roll and yaw at high angles of attack. The default values are 1.0.
Propeller-induced turning effect parameters
The p_factor_on_yaw, torque_on_roll, gyro_precession_on_pitch and gyro_precession_on_yaw parameters are multipliers on the effects induced by rotating propellers. These are often called “left turning tendencies” for clockwise rotating propellers. The simulation correctly handles counter-clockwise rotating propellers. The default values are 1.0.
Drag parameters
Drag is the aerodynamic force that determines the aircraft speed and acceleration. There are two basic types of drag that the user can adjust here. Parasitic drag is composed of two basic elements: form drag, which results from the interference of streamlined airflow, and skin friction. Parasite drag increases as airspeed increases. Induced drag results from the production of lift. Induced drag increases as angle of attack increases.
The parasite_drag_scalar and induced_drag_scalar parameters are multipliers on the two respective drag coefficients. For example, a value of 1.1 increases the respective drag component by 10 percent. A value of 0.9 decreases the drag by 10 Percent. Negative values are not advised, as extremely unnatural flight characteristics will result. The default values are 1.0.
Property
Description
Examples
cruise_lift_scalar CL0. Airbus A321( cruise_lift_scalar = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( cruise_lift_scalar=1.000 )
parasite_drag_scalar Cd0. Airbus A321( parasite_drag_scalar = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( parasite_drag_scalar=1.000 )
induced_drag_scalar Cdi. Airbus A321( induced_drag_scalar = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( induced_drag_scalar=1.000 )
elevator_effectiveness Cmde. Airbus A321( elevator_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( elevator_effectiveness=1.000 )
aileron_effectiveness Clda. Airbus A321( aileron_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( aileron_effectiveness=1.000 )
rudder_effectiveness Cndr. Airbus A321( rudder_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( rudder_effectiveness=0.501 )
pitch_stability Cmq. Airbus A321( pitch_stability = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( pitch_stability=1.000 )
roll_stability Clp. Airbus A321( roll_stability = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( roll_stability=1.000 )
yaw_stability Cnr. Airbus A321( yaw_stability = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( yaw_stability=1.000 )
elevator_trim_effectiveness Cmdetr. Airbus A321( elevator_trim_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( elevator_trim_effectiveness=1.000 )
aileron_trim_effectiveness Cldatr. Airbus A321( aileron_trim_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( aileron_trim_effectiveness=1.000 )
rudder_trim_effectiveness Cndrtr. Airbus A321( rudder_trim_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( rudder_trim_effectiveness=1.000 )
hi_alpha_on_roll See notes above.
hi_alpha_on_yaw
p_factor_on_yaw See notes above. Douglas DC-3( p_factor_on_yaw = 0.5 )
Piper Cub( p_factor_on_yaw = 0.3 )
torque_on_roll Douglas DC-3( torque_on_roll = 1.0 )
Extra 300S( torque_on_roll = 0.5 )
Piper Cub( torque_on_roll = 0.3 )
gyro_precession_on_yaw See notes above. Douglas DC-3( gyro_precession_on_yaw = 1.0 )
Piper Cub( gyro_precession_on_yaw = 0.3 )
gyro_precession_on_pitch Douglas DC-3( gyro_precession_on_pitch = 1.0 )
Piper Cub( gyro_precession_on_pitch = 0.3 )
[generalenginedata]
Every type of aircraft, even a glider, should have this section in the aircraft.cfg file. Basically, this section describes the type of engine, the number of engines, where the engines are located, and a fuel flow scalar to modify how much fuel the engine requires to produce the calculated power.
Property
Description
Examples
engine_type Integer that identifies what type of engine is on the aircraft. 0 = piston, 1 = Jet, 2 = None, 3 = Helo-turbine, 4 = Rocket (not supported) 5 = Turboprop. Airbus A321( engine_type = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( engine_type= 0 )
Beech Baron 58( engine_type = 0 )
Beech King Air 350( engine_type = 5 )
engine.0
to
engine.n Offset of the engine from the datum reference point. Each engine location specified increases the engine count (maximum of four engines allowed). Airbus A321( Engine.0 = 4.75, -16.1, -4.5 )
Aircreation582SL( Engine.0= -3.000, 0.000, 2.000 )
Beech Baron 58( Engine.0 = -1.4, -5.3, 0.0 )
Boeing 747-400( Engine.0 = -107.5, -69.5, -6.9 )
Boeing 747-400( Engine.1 = -76.0, -38.9, -10.4 )
Boeing 747-400( Engine.2 = -76.0, 38.9, -10.4 )
Boeing 747-400( Engine.3 = -107.5, 69.5, -6.9 )
fuel_flow_scalar Scalar for modifying the fuel flow required by the engine(s). A value of less than 1.0 causes a slower fuel consumption for a given power setting, a value greater than 1.0 causes the aircraft to burn more fuel for a given power setting. Airbus A321( fuel_flow_scalar = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( fuel_flow_scalar= 1.000 )
Boeing 747-400( fuel_flow_scalar = 1.0 )
Beech Baron 58( fuel_flow_scalar= 0.9 )
min_throttle_limit Defines the minimum throttle position (percent of max). Normally 0 for piston aircraft and -0.25 for turbine airplane engines with reverse thrust. Airbus A321( min_throttle_limit = -0.25 )
Aircreation582SL( min_throttle_limit=0.000000 )
Boeing 747-400( min_throttle_limit = -0.25; )
Beech Baron 58( min_throttle_limit = 0.0; )
max_contrail_temperature Ambient temperature, in celsius, in which engine vapor contrails will turn on. The default value is about -39 degrees celsius for turbine engines. For piston engines, the contrail effect is turned off unless a temperature value is set here. Airbus A321( max_contrail_temperature = -30 )
master_ignition_switch 1=Available, 0=Not Available (default). If available, this switch must be on for the ignition circuit, and thus the engines, to be operable. Turning it off will stop all engines. Douglas DC-3( master_ignition_switch = 1 )
starter_type Set to 1 for a Manual Starter Curtiss Jenny( starter_type = 1 )
thrustanglepitchheading.0 Thrust pitch and heading angles in degrees ( positive pitch down, positive heading right). Cessna Skyhawk 172SP Paint1 ( ThrustAnglePitchHeading.0 = 0,0 )
[turbineenginedata]
A turbine engine ignites fuel and compressed air to create thrust. These parameters define the power (thrust) output of a given jet turbine engine.
Property
Description
Examples
fuel_flow_gain Fuel flow gain constant. Airbus A321( fuel_flow_gain = 0.002 )
Boeing 747-400( fuel_flow_gain = 0.002 )
Beech King Air 350( fuel_flow_gain = 0.011 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( fuel_flow_gain = 0.0025 )
inlet_area Engine nacelle inlet area, (in square feet). Airbus A321( inlet_area = 19.6 )
Boeing 747-400( inlet_area = 60.0 )
Beech King Air 350( inlet_area = 1.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( inlet_area = 9.4 )
rated_n2_rpm Second stage compressor rated rpm. Airbus A321( rated_N2_rpm = 29920 )
Boeing 747-400( rated_N2_rpm = 29920 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( rated_N2_rpm = 33000 )
static_thrust Maximum rated static thrust at sea level (lbs). Airbus A321( static_thrust = 23500 )
Boeing 747-400( static_thrust = 56750 )
Beech King Air 350( static_thrust = 158 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( static_thrust = 12670 )
afterburner_available A number, indicating the number of afterburner stages available. Airbus A321( afterburner_available = 0 )
Boeing 747-400( afterburner_available = 0 )
FA-18 Hornet ( afterburner_available = 6 )
reverser_available Specifies the scalar on the calculated reverse thrust effect. A value of 0 will cause no reverse thrust to be available. A value of 1.0 will cause the theoretical normal reverse thrust to be available. Other values will scale the normal calculated value accordingly. Airbus A321( reverser_available = 1 )
Boeing 747-400( reverser_available = 1 )
thrustspecificfuelconsumption Jet thrust specific fuel consumption. The ratio of fuel used in pounds per hour, to thrust in pounds. Applies at all speeds. Boeing 737-800 Paint1( ThrustSpecificFuelConsumption = 0.6 )
Boeing 747-400 Paint1( ThrustSpecificFuelConsumption = 0.4 )
afterburnthrustspecificfuelconsumption Jet thrust specific fuel consumption. The ratio of fuel used in pounds per hour, to thrust in pounds. Applies only when the afterburner is active. Boeing 737-800 Paint1( AfterBurnThrustSpecificFuelConsumption = 0 )
FA-18 Hornet ( AfterBurnThrustSpecificFuelConsumption = 0.5 )
afterburner_throttle_threshold Percentage of throttle range when the afterburner engages. FA-18 Hornet ( afterburner_throttle_threshold = 0.76 )
[jet_engine]
The thrust_scalar parameter scales the calculated thrust for jet engines (thrust taken from the [TurbineEngineData] section).
Property
Description
Examples
thrust_scalar Parameter that scales the calculated thrust provided by the propeller. Airbus A321( thrust_scalar = 1.0 )
[electrical]
These parameters configure the characteristics of the aircraft's electrical system and its components. Each aircraft has a battery as well as an alternator or generator for each engine.
Below is a table of electrical section parameters shown with default values for Bus Type, Max Amp Load and Min Voltage (the values applied if the parameters are omitted). The default Min Voltage equals 0.7*Max Battery Voltage. The list of components also reflects all of the systems currently linked to the electrical system. If a component is included in the list but the aircraft does not actually have that system, the component is simply ignored.
Bus Type
Specifies which bus in the electrical system the component is connected to, according to the following bus type codes:
Bus Type Bus
0 Main Bus (most components connected here)
1 Avionics Bus
2 Battery Bus
3 Hot Battery Bus (bypasses Master switch)
4 Generator/Alternator Bus 1 (function of engine 1)
5 Generator/Alternator Bus 2 (function of engine 2)
6 Generator/Alternator Bus 3 (function of engine 3)
7 Generator/Alternator Bus 4 (function of engine 4)
Max Amp Load
Max Amp Load is the current required to power the component, and of course becomes the additional load on the electrical system.
Min Voltage
Min Voltage is the minimum voltage required from the specified bus for the component to function.
Property
Description
Examples
flap_motor Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( flap_motor = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
gear_motor Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( gear_motor = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
autopilot Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( autopilot = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
avionics_bus Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( avionics_bus = 0, 5, 17.0 )
Boeing 747-400( avionics_bus = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( avionics_bus = 0, 5 , 9.5 )
avionics Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( avionics = 1, 5 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( avionics = 1, 5 , 9.5 )
pitot_heat Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( pitot_heat = 0, 2 , 17.0 )
additional_system Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( additional_system = 0, 2, 17.0 )
Beech King Air 350( additional_system = 0, 2 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( additional_system = 0, 2 , 9.5 )
marker_beacon Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( marker_beacon = 1, 2 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( marker_beacon = 1, 2 , 9.0 )
gear_warning Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( gear_warning = 0, 2 , 17.0 )
fuel_pump Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( fuel_pump = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( fuel_pump = 0, 5 , 9.0 )
starter1 Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( starter1 = 0, 20, 17.0 )
starter2 Bus type, max amp, min voltage
starter3 Bus type, max amp, min voltage
starter4 Bus type, max amp, min voltage
light_nav Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_nav = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_beacon Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_beacon = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_landing Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_landing = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_taxi Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_taxi = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_strobe Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_strobe = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_panel Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_panel = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_cabin Bus type, max amp, min voltage
prop_sync Bus type, max amp, min voltage
auto_feather Bus type, max amp, min voltage
auto_brakes Bus type, max amp, min voltage
standby_vacuum Bus type, max amp, min voltage
hydraulic_pump Bus type, max amp, min voltage
fuel_transfer_pump Bus type, max amp, min voltage
propeller_deice Bus type, max amp, min voltage
light_recognition Bus type, max amp, min voltage
light_wing Bus type, max amp, min voltage
light_logo Bus type, max amp, min voltage
directional_gyro Bus type, max amp, min voltage
directional_gyro_slaving Bus type, max amp, min voltage
max_battery_voltage The maximum voltage to which the battery can be charged. It is also the voltage available from the battery when the aircraft is initialized. The battery voltage will decrease from this if the generators or alternators are not supplying enough current to meet the demand of the active components. Beech Baron 58( max_battery_voltage = 24.0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( max_battery_voltage = 24 )
Extra 300S( max_battery_voltage = 12.0 )
Maule M7 260C( max_battery_voltage = 12.0 )
generator_alternator_voltage Voltage of the generators or alternators. Beech Baron 58( generator_alternator_voltage = 28.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( generator_alternator_voltage = 25.0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( generator_alternator_voltage = 28 )
Douglas DC-3( generator_alternator_voltage = 25 )
max_generator_alternator_amps Maximum generator/alternator amps. Beech Baron 58( max_generator_alternator_amps = 60.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( max_generator_alternator_amps = 40.0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( max_generator_alternator_amps = 50 )
Douglas DC-3( max_generator_alternator_amps = 100 )
engine_generator_map List of flags, corresponding to the number of engines, indicating whether there is a generator configured with the engine. Ford 4-AT-E Tri-Motor( engine_generator_map= 0,1,0 )
electric_always_available Set to 1 if electric power is available regardless of the state of the battery or circuit.
[contact_points]
You can configure and adjust the way aircraft reacts to different kinds of contact, including landing gear contact and articulation, braking, steering, and damage accrued through excessive speed. You can also configure each contact point independently for each aircraft, and there is no limit to the number of points you can add. When importing an aircraft that does not contain this set of data, the program will generate the data from the .air file the first time the aircraft is loaded, and then write it to the aircraft.cfg.
Each contact point contains a series of values that define the characteristics of the point, separated by commas. A contact point has 16 parameters, described in the following table:
Contact Point Parameter (and example) Element Description
1 (1) Class Integer defining the type of contact point: 0 = None, 1 = Wheel, 2 = Scrape, 3 = Skid, 4 = Float, 5 = Water Rudder
2 (-18.0) Longitudinal Position The longitudinal distance of the point from the datum reference point.
3 (0) Lateral Position The lateral distance of the point from the datum reference point.
4 (-3.35) Vertical Position The vertical distance of the point from the datum reference point.
5 (3200) Impact Damage Threshold The speed at which an impact with the ground can cause damage (feet/min).
6 (0) Brake Map Defines which brake input drives the brake (wheels only).
0 = None, 1 = Left Brake, 2 = Right Brake.
7 (0.50) Wheel Radius Radius of the wheel (feet).
8 (180) Steering Angle The maximum angle (positive and negative) that a wheel can pivot (degrees).
9 (0.25) Static Compression This is the distance a landing gear is compressed when the empty aircraft is at rest on the ground (feet). This term defines the “strength” of the strut, where a smaller number will increase the “stiffness” of the strut.
10 (2.5) Ratio of Maximum Compression to Static Compression Ratio of the max dynamic compression available in the strut to the static value. Can be useful in coordinating the “compression” of the strut when landing.
11 (0.90) Damping Ratio This ratio describes how well the ground reaction oscillations are damped. A value of 1.0 is considered critically damped, meaning there will be little or no osciallation. A damping ratio of 0.0 is considered undamped, meaning that the oscillations will continue with a constant magnitude. Negative values result in an unstable ground handling situation, and values greater than 1.0 might also cause instabilities by being “over” damped. Typical values range from 0.6 to 0.95.
12 (1.0) Extension Time The amount of time it takes the landing gear to fully extend under normal conditions (seconds). A value of zero indicates a fixed gear.
13 (4.0) Retraction Time The amount of time it takes the landing gear to fully retract under normal conditions (seconds). A value of zero indicates a fixed gear.
14 (0) Sound Type This integer value will map a point to a type of sound:
0 = Center Gear,
1 = Auxiliary Gear,
2 = Left Gear,
3 = Right Gear,
4 = Fuselage Scrape,
5 = Left Wing Scrape,
6 = Right Wing Scrape,
7 = Aux1 Scrape,
8 = Aux2 Scrape,
9 = Tail Scrape.
15 (0) Airspeed Limit This is the speed at which landing gear extension becomes inhibited (knots). Not used for scrape points or non-retractable gear.
16 (200) Damage from Airspeed The speed above which the landing gear accrues damage (knots). Not used for scrape points or non-retractable gear. Each contact point's data set takes the form “point.n=”, where “n” is the index to the particular point, followed by the data.
Property
Description
Examples
point.0
to
point.n Contact points that match the format described above. Airbus A321( point.0=1, 40.00, 0.00, -8.40, 1181.1, 0, 1.442, 55.92, 0.6, 2.5, 0.9, 4.0, 4.0, 0, 220.0, 250.0 )
Aircreation582SL( point.0= 1.000, 2.583, 0.000, -1.000, 1574.803, 0.000, 0.504, 31.860, 0.235, 2.500, 0.731, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000 ) Beech Baron 58( point.0 = 1, 0.82, 0.00, -3.77, 1600, 0, 0.633, 40, 0.42, 4.0, 0.90, 3.0, 3.0, 0, 152, 180 )
Boeing 747-400( point.0 = 1, -25.0, 0.0, -17.5, 1000.0, 0, 2.0, 70.0, 0.5, 3.5, 0.900, 9.0, 8.0, 0, 220, 250 )
Boeing 747-400( point.1 = 1, -114.0, -18.0, -21.3, 2000.0, 1, 2.0, 13.0, 3.0, 2.5, 0.900, 11.0, 9.0, 2, 220, 250 )
Boeing 747-400( point.2 = 1, -114.0, 18.0, -21.3, 2000.0, 2, 2.0, 13.0, 3.0, 2.5, 0.900, 11.0, 9.0, 3, 220, 250 )
Boeing 747-400( point.3 = 2, -152.6, -103.5, 3.0, 700.0, 0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.000, 0.0, 0.0, 5, 0, 0 )
Boeing 747-400( point.4 = 2, -152.6, 103.5, 3.0, 700.0, 0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.000, 0.0, 0.0, 6, 0, 0 )
Boeing 747-400( point.5 = 2, 3.0, 0.0, 0.0, 700.0, 0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.000, 0.0, 0.0, 9, 0, 0 )
Boeing 747-400( point.6 = 2, -222.7, 0.0, 4.0, 700.0, 0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.000, 0.0, 0.0, 4, 0, 0 )
max_number_of_points Integer value indicating the maximum number of contact points the program will look for. Airbus A321( max_number_of_points = 21 )
static_pitch The static pitch of the aircraft when at rest on the ground (degrees). The program uses this value to position the aircraft at startup, in slew, and at any other time when the simulation is not actively running. Airbus A321( static_pitch=0.04 )
Aircreation582SL( static_pitch= 0.000 )
Boeing 747-400( static_pitch = -1.5 )
Beech Baron 58( static_pitch = 1.56 )
static_cg_height The static height of the aircraft when at rest on the ground (feet). The program uses this value to position the aircraft at startup, in slew, and at any other time when the simulation is not actively running. Airbus A321( static_cg_height=7.67 )
Aircreation582SL( static_cg_height= 1.000 )
Boeing 747-400( static_cg_height = 18.6 )
Beech Baron 58( static_cg_height = 3.43 )
gear_system_type This parameter defines the system type which drives the gear extension and retraction.
0 = electrical
1 = hydraulic
2 = pneumatic
3 = manual
4 = none Airbus A321( gear_system_type=1 )
Beech Baron 58( gear_system_type=0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( gear_system_type=3 )
emergency_extension_type One of:
None=0,Pump=1,Gravity=2. Bombardier CRJ 700( emergency_extension_type=2 )
tailwheel_lock Boolean defining if a tailwheel lock is available (applicable only on tailwheel airplanes). Douglas DC-3( tailwheel_lock = 1 )
[gear_warning_system]
The following parameters define the functionality of the aircraft’s gear warning system. This is generally a function of the throttle lever position and the flap deflection.
Property
Description
Examples
gear_warning_available Sets the type of gear warning system available on the aircraft, one of:
0 = None, 1 = Normal, 2 = Amphibian (audible alert for water vs. land setting). Airbus A321( gear_warning_available = 1 )
pct_throttle_limit The throttle limit, below which the gear warning will activate if the gear is not down and locked while the flaps are deflected to at least the setting for flap_limit_idle below. This flap limit can be 0 so that the warning effectively is a function of the throttle. A value between: 0 (idle) and 1.0 (Max throttle). Airbus A321( pct_throttle_limit = 0.1 )
flap_limit_idle In conjunction with the throttle limit specified above, this limit is the flap deflection, above which the warning will activate if the gear is not down and locked while the throttle is below the limit specified above. By setting this limit to a value greater than zero, the pilot can reduce the throttle to idle without activating the warning. This is often utilized in jets to decelerate/descend the aircraft. Airbus A321( flap_limit_idle = 5.0 )
Beech Baron 58( flap_limit_idle = 0.0 )
Beech King Air 350( flap_limit_idle = 15.0 )
flap_limit_power The flap limit, above which the warning will activate (regardless of throttle position). Airbus A321( flap_limit_power = 25.5 )
Beech Baron 58( flap_limit_power = 31.5 )
Beech King Air 350( flap_limit_power = 30.0 )
Douglas DC-3( flap_limit_power = 16.0 )
[brakes]
The following parameters define the aircraft's braking system:
Property
Description
Examples
parking_brake Boolean setting if a parking brake is available on the aircraft. Airbus A321( parking_brake = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( parking_brake=1 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( parking_brake = 0 )
toe_brakes_scale Sets the scaling of the braking effectiveness. 1.0 is the default. 0.0 scales the brakes to no effectiveness. Airbus A321( toe_brakes_scale = 0.885 )
Aircreation582SL( toe_brakes_scale=1.000031 )
Boeing 747-400( toe_brakes_scale = 1.24 )
Beech Baron 58( toe_brakes_scale = 1.0 )
auto_brakes The number of increments that the auto-braking switch can be turned to. Airbus A321( auto_brakes = 3 )
Boeing 737-800( auto_brakes = 4 )
Beech Baron 58( auto_brakes = 0 )
hydraulic_system_scalar The ratio of hydraulic system pressure to maximum brake hydraulic pressure. Airbus A321( hydraulic_system_scalar = 1 )
differential_braking_scale Differential braking is a function of the normal both brakes on and the rudder pedal input. The amount of difference between the left and right brake is scaled by this value. 1.0 is the normal setting if differential braking is desired (particularly on tailwheel airplanes). 0.0 is the setting if no differential braking is desired. Douglas DC-3( differential_braking_scale = 1.0 )
[hydraulic_system]
The following parameters define the aircraft's hydraulic system:
Property
Description
Examples
normal_pressure The normal operating pressure of the hydraulic system, in pounds per square inch. Airbus A321( normal_pressure = 3000.0 )
Aircreation582SL( normal_pressure=0.000000 )
Beech Baron 58( normal_pressure = 0.0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( normal_pressure = 1000.0 )
electric_pumps The number of electric hydraulic pumps the aircraft is configured with. Airbus A321( electric_pumps = 0 )
Boeing 737-800( electric_pumps = 1 )
engine_map This series of flags sets whether the corresponding engines of the aircraft are configured with hydraulic pumps. The flags correspond in order of the engines, starting with the left-most engine first and moving right. By default, all engines are equipped to drive a hydraulic pump. Airbus A321( engine_map = 1,1,0,0 )
Boeing 747-400( engine_map = 1,1,1,1 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( engine_map = 1,0,0,0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( engine_map = 1 )
[views]
The following parameter define the pilot's viewpoint.
Property
Description
Examples
eyepoint Position relative to datum reference point. Airbus A321( eyepoint=48.2, -1.35, 1.7 )
Aircreation582SL( eyepoint=-0.205052,0.000000,3.604314 )
Boeing 747-400( eyepoint = -18.55, -1.97, 10.7 )
Beech Baron 58( eyepoint = -8.213, -0.8612, 2.220 )
zoom Zoom the view in or out from the viewpoint. Default( zoom=1.0 )
[flaps.n]
For each flap set that is on the aircraft, a corresponding [flaps.n] section should exist. Most general aviation aircraft and smaller jets only have one set of flaps (trailing edge), but it is typical for the larger commercial aircraft to have a set of leading edge flaps in addition to the trailing edge flaps. The number of flap sets are determined by the number of [flaps.n] sections contained in the aircraft.cfg file.
Property
Description
Examples
type Integer value that indicates if this is a leading edge or trailing edge flap set:
0 = no flaps 1 = trailing edge, 2 = leading edge. Airbus A321( type = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( type=0 )
Boeing 737-800( type = 2 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( type=1 )
span-outboard The percentage of half-wing span the flap extends to (from the wing-fuselage intersection). Airbus A321( span-outboard = 0.8 )
Aircreation582SL( span-outboard=0.500000 )
Beech Baron 58( span-outboard = 0.41 )
Beech King Air 350( span-outboard = 0.5 )
extending-time Time it takes for the flap set to extend to the fullest deflection angle specified (seconds). Airbus A321( extending-time = 20 )
Aircreation582SL( extending-time=0.000000 )
Boeing 737-800( extending-time = 2 )
Boeing 747-400( extending-time = 25 )
flaps-position.0
to
flaps-position.n Each element of the flaps-position array indicates the deflection angle to which the flaps will deflect (in degrees). The largest deflection angle will be the one used for full flap deflection. Cessna Grand Caravan( flaps-position.0= 0 )
Sailplane( flaps-position.0 = -9.0 )
Maule M7 260C( flaps-position.0 = -7 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.0 = 0 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.1 = 1 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.2 = 2)
Airbus A321( flaps-position.3 = 5 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.4 = 10 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.5 = 15 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.6 = 25 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.7 = 30 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.8 = 40 )
damaging-speed Speed at which the flaps begin to accrue damage (Knots Indicated Airspeed, KIAS). Airbus A321( damaging-speed = 250 )
Boeing 747-400( damaging-speed = 200 )
Beech Baron 58( damaging-speed = 152 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( damaging-speed = 120 )
blowout-speed Speed at which the flaps depart the aircraft (Knots Indicated Airspeed, KIAS). Airbus A321( blowout-speed = 300 )
Boeing 747-400( blowout-speed = 250 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( blowout-speed = 150 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( blowout-speed = 175 )
lift_scalar The percentage of total lift due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection. Airbus A321( lift_scalar = 1.0 )
Boeing 747-400( lift_scalar = 0.7 )
drag_scalar The percentage of total drag due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection. Airbus A321( drag_scalar = 1.0 )
Boeing 747-400( drag_scalar = 0.9 )
pitch_scalar The percentage of total pitch due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection. Airbus A321( pitch_scalar= 1.0 )
Boeing 747-400( pitch_scalar= 0.9 )
system_type Integer value that indicates what type of system drives the flaps to deflect:, one of:
0 = Electric
1 = Hydraulic
2 = Pneumatic
3 = Manual
4 = None Airbus A321( system_type = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( system_type=0 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( system_type = 0 )
Sailplane( system_type = 3 )
[radios]
There should be a radio section in each aircraft.cfg. This section configures the radios for each individual aircraft. Each of the following keywords has a flag or set of flags, that determine if the particular radio element is available in the aircraft. A “1” is used for true (or available), and 0 for false (or not available).
Property
Description
Examples
audio.1 Is there an audio panel, set to 1. Airbus A321( Audio.1 = 1 )
Sailplane( Audio.1 = 0 )
com.1 Two flags, set the first one to 1 if a Com1 radio is available, and the second if it supports a standby frequency. Airbus A321( Com.1 = 1, 1 )
Beech King Air 350( Com.1 = 1, 0 )
com.2 Two flags, set the first one to 1 if a Com2 radio is available, and the second if it supports a standby frequency. You cannot have Com2 without Com1. Airbus A321( Com.2 = 1, 1 )
Beech King Air 350( Com.2 = 1, 0 )
nav.1 Three flags, set the first to 1 if there is a Nav1 receiver, the second if it supports a standby frequency, and the third if it supports a glideslope indication. Airbus A321( Nav.1 = 1, 1, 1 )
Beech King Air 350( Nav.1 = 1, 0, 1 )
Sailplane( Nav.1 = 0, 0, 0 )
nav.2 Three flags, set the first to 1 if there is a Nav2 receiver, the second if it supports a standby frequency, and the third if it supports a glideslope indication. You cannot have Nav2 without Nav1. Airbus A321( Nav.2 = 1, 1, 0 )
Beech King Air 350( Nav.2 = 1, 0, 0 )
adf.1 If there is an ADF receiver, set to 1. Airbus A321( Adf.1 = 1 )
Sailplane( Adf.1 = 0 )
adf.2 If there is an ADF2 receiver, set to 1. Bombardier CRJ 700( Adf.2 = 1 )
transponder.1 If there is a transponder, set to 1. Airbus A321( Transponder.1 = 1 )
Sailplane( Transponder.1 = 0 )
marker.1 If there is a marker beacon receiver, set to 1. Airbus A321( Marker.1 = 1 )
Sailplane( Marker.1 = 0 )
[lights]
Each light that requires a special effect should be entered in this section. The following table gives the codes for the switches that will turn on the lights.
Code Switch
1 Beacon
2 Strobe
3 Navigation or Position
4 Cockpit
5 Landing
6 Taxi
7 Recognition
8 Wing
9 Logo
10 Cabin
Property
Description
Examples
light.0
to
light.n The first entry of the line defines which circuit, or switch, the light is connected to (see the code table above). Multiple lights may be connected to a single switch. The next three entries are the position relative to datum reference point. The final entry is the special effect file name that is triggered (for example, fx_navred). These files have .fx extensions and should be placed in the root effects folder. Airbus A321( light.0 = 3, -19.14, -47.24, 1.38, fx_navredm , )
Boeing 747-400( light.0 = 3, -150.30, -102.56, 3.22, fx_navredh , )
Beech Baron 58( light.0 = 3, -6.60, -19.29, 0.79, fx_navred , )
Beech King Air 350( light.0 = 3, 0.56, -28.41, 1.97, fx_navred , )
Beech King Air 350( light.1 = 3, 0.56, 28.41, 1.97, fx_navgre , )
Beech King Air 350( light.2 = 3, -31.20, 0.00, 9.09, fx_navwhi , )
Beech King Air 350( light.3 = 2, 0.89, -28.48, 1.87, fx_strobe , )
[keyboard_response]
The aircraft flight controls can be manipulated by the keyboard. Because flight controls naturally become more sensitive as airspeed increases, it can become quite difficult to control the aircraft via the keyboard at high speeds. To address this problem, the amount a single keypress increments a flight control is decreased by a factor of 1/2 at the first airspeed (in knots) listed on the line for the control, and to 1/8 at the second airspeed, and to a scale interpolated from these values for all airspeeds in between. The example below shows that an elevator will increment by one degree when the airspeed is zero, by ¾ of one degree at 50 knots, ½ of one degree at 100 knots, 5/16 of one degree at 140 knots, and 1/8 of one degree at 180 knots or greater speed.
Property
Description
Examples
elevator Two breakpoint speeds for keypress increments. Airbus A321( elevator = 150, 250 )
Aircreation582SL( elevator=150.000000,250.000000 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( elevator = 100, 180 )
Sailplane( elevator = 160, 360 )
aileron Two breakpoint speeds for keypress increments. Airbus A321( aileron = 150, 250 )
Aircreation582SL( aileron=150.000000,250.000000 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( aileron = 200, 1000 )
Sailplane( aileron = 160, 360 )
rudder Two breakpoint speeds for keypress increments. Airbus A321( rudder = 150, 250 )
Aircreation582SL( rudder=150.000000,250.000000 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( rudder = 200, 1000 )
Sailplane( rudder = 160, 360 )
[direction_indicators]
This section is used to define the characteristics of the direction indicators on the instrument panels, but does not include the magnetic compass (which has a separate section). The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0,1,2,…n.
Property
Description
Examples
direction_indicator.0
to
direction_indicator.n One or two codes. If the indicator is type 4, then there must be two entries here (the indicator, and the indicator to which this one is slaved). The indicator codes are:
0 = None
1 = Vacuum gyro
2 = Electric gyro
3 = Electro-mag slaved compass
4 = Slaved to another indicator Airbus A321( direction_indicator.0=3,0 )
Aircreation582SL( direction_indicator.0 = 0 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( direction_indicator.0=1,0 )
Sailplane( direction_indicator.0=0,0 )
Douglas DC-3( direction_indicator.1=2,0 )
induction_compass.0
to
induction_compass.n If there is an induction compass, one of:
1 = Electric
2 = Anemometer driven Ryan NYP( induction_compass.0=2 )
[attitude_indicators]
This section is used to define the characteristics of the attitude indicators on the instrument panels. The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0,1,2,...n.
Property
Description
Examples
attitude_indicator.0
to
attitude_indicator.n The system which drives the attitude indicator. One of:
0 = none
1 = Vacuum driven gyro
2 = Electrically driven gyro Airbus A321( attitude_indicator.0 = 2 )
Aircreation582SL( attitude_indicator.0=1 )
Beech Baron 58( attitude_indicator.0 = 1 )
Sailplane( attitude_indicator.0 = 0 )
Boeing 747-400( attitude_indicator.1 = 1 )
Douglas DC-3( attitude_indicator.1 = 2 )
[altimeters]
Property
Description
Examples
altimeter.0
to
altimeter.n If the parameter is set to 1, a separate altimeter is instantiated, which will operate independently of other altimeters, and can have failures applied to it. Airbus A321 Paint2( altimeter.0=1 )
Learjet 45( altimeter.0 = 1 )
Airbus A321 Paint2( altimeter.1=1 )
Learjet 45( altimeter.1 = 1 )
[turn_indicators]
This section is used to define the characteristics of the turn indicators on the instrument panels. The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0,1,2,…n.
Property
Description
Examples
turn_indicator.0 Two code values, which define the system on which the turn indicators are dependant. The first value is for turn, the second for bank. The codes are:
0 = None
1 = Electrically driven gyro
2 = Vacuum driven gyro Airbus A321( turn_indicator.0=0,0 )
Aircreation582SL( turn_indicator.0=1,0 )
Beech Baron 58( turn_indicator.0=1,1 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( turn_indicator.0=1 )
[vacuum_system]
The following parameters define the aircraft's vacuum system:
Property
Description
Examples
max_pressure Maximum pressure in psi. Airbus A321( max_pressure=5.15 )
Aircreation582SL( max_pressure=5.000000 )
Boeing 747-400( max_pressure=5.150000 )
Sailplane( max_pressure=0 )
vacuum_type Vacuum type, one of:
0 = None
1 = Engine pump (default)
2 = Pneumatic
3 = Venturi. Airbus A321( vacuum_type=2 )
Aircreation582SL( vacuum_type=1 )
Sailplane( vacuum_type=0 )
electric_backup_pressure Backup pressure in psi. Aircreation582SL( electric_backup_pressure=0.000000 )
Beech Baron 58( electric_backup_pressure=4.900000 )
Mooney Bravo( electric_backup_pressure=4.9 )
Bell 206B JetRanger( electric_backup_pressure=5.15 )
engine_map This series of flags sets whether the corresponding engines of the aircraft are configured with vacuum systems. The flags correspond in order of the engines, starting with the left-most engine first and moving right. Beech Baron 58( engine_map=1,1 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( engine_map=1 )
[pneumatic_system]
The following parameters define the aircraft's pneumatic pressure system:
Property
Description
Examples
max_pressure The maximum pressure of the pneumatic system. Airbus A321( max_pressure=18.000000 )
Aircreation582SL( max_pressure=0.000000 )
Grumman Goose G21A( max_pressure = 21.5 )
Piper Cub( max_pressure=0 )
bleed_air_scalar The ratio of bleed-air pressure from the engines to pneumatic air pressure in the pneumatic system. Airbus A321( bleed_air_scalar=1.000000 )
Aircreation582SL( bleed_air_scalar=0.000000 )
Beech Baron 58( bleed_air_scalar=0.00000 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( bleed_air_scalar=0.150000 )
[exits]
The following parameters define the aircraft's exits:
Property
Description
Examples
number_of_exits This value defines the number of simulated exits, or doors, on the aircraft. Airbus A321( number_of_exits = 3 )
Aircreation582SL( number_of_exits =1 )
Beech Baron 58( number_of_exits = 1 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( number_of_exits = 2 )
exit.0
to
exit.n Five values: the open and close rate percent per second (where 1.0 is fully open), the position relative to datum reference point, and the type of exit, one of:
0 = Main
1 = Cargo
2 = Emergency Airbus A321( exit.0 = 0.4, 40.50,-6.0, 7.0, 0 )
Boeing 737-800( exit.0 = 0.4, 41.3, -6.0, 4.0, 0 )
Boeing 747-400( exit.0 = 0.4, -30.30, -9.5, 1, 0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( exit.0 = 0.4, -16.50, -4.5, 0.5, 0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( exit.1 = 0.4, -74.00, -4.5, 0.5, 1 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( exit.2 = 0.4, -36.50, -2.5, -1.0, 1 )
[effects]
The effects section of the file refers to the visual effects that result from various systems or reactions of the aircraft. An effect file associated with a keyword in this section will be used when the corresponding action is triggered. If no entry is made a default effect file will be used. The table below outlines the aircraft effects currently supported, though of course not all effects are supported on all aircraft.
Each entry can be followed by a 1 if the effect is to be run for a single iteration. Set this number to zero or leave blank (the default), for the effect to continue as long as the respective action is active. Make an entry in the configuration file to replace any of these effects with a new one. Or to turn off the effect add an entry that references the fx_dummy effect (which does nothing).
Property
Description
Default
Single Iteration
Examples
wake The wake effect name. fx_wake False Airbus A321( wake=fx_wake )
water The landing, taxiing or taking off from water effect. fx_spray False Airbus A321( water=fx_spray )
waterspeed Traveling at speed on the water. fx_spray False
dirt Moving on dirt. fx_tchdrt False Airbus A321( dirt=fx_tchdrt )
concrete Moving on concrete. fx_sparks False Airbus A321( concrete=fx_sparks )
Sailplane( concrete=fx_tchdwn_s )
touchdown The touchdown effect, which usually is followed by an optional 1 to indicate the effect is to be run once only. fx_tchdwn True Airbus A321( touchdown=fx_tchdwn, 1 )
Aircreation582SL( touchdown=fx_tchdwn_s, 1 )
contrail Contrail effect, applies to jets flying above 29000ft. fx_contrail_l False
startup Engine startup. fx_engstrt True Douglas DC-3( startup=fx_engstrt_jenny)
Piper Cub( startup=fx_engstrt_cub )
landrotorwash Rotor wash. Helicopters only. fx_rtr_lnd False
waterrotorwash Water rotor wash. Helicopters only. fx_rtr_wtr False
vaportrail_l Left wing vapor trail. fx_vaportrail_l False
vaportrail_r Right wing vapor trail. fx_vaportrail_r False
l_wingtipvortice Left wingtip vortice (contrails off the wingtip, usually from a jet such as the F18). fx_wingtipvortice_l True
r_wingtipvortice Right wingtip vortice. fx_wingtipvortice_r True
fueldump Fuel dump active. No default effect False
EngineFire Engine fire. fx_engfire False Bell 206B JetRanger( EngineFire=fx_heliFire )
EngineDamage Engine damage. fx_engsmoke False
EngineOilLeak Oil leak. fx_OilLeak False
SkidPavement Skid on tarmac, leaves a mark. fx_skidmark False
SnowSkiTrack Skid on snow. No default effect False Maule M7 260C Ski paint1( SnowTrack = fx_snowtrack )
WheelSnowSpray Taking off on snow. fx_WheelSnowSpray False Maule M7 260C Ski paint1( WheelSnowSpray = fx_WheelSnowSpray )
WheelWetSpray Taking off on wet runway. fx_WheelWetSpray False Maule M7 260C Ski paint1( WheelWetSpray = fx_WheelWetSpray )
WetEngineWash Similar to waterrotorwash, the effect a propeller has on wet terrain when flying below 20m. fx_WetEngineWash False
SnowEngineWash Similar to waterrotorwash, the effect a propeller has on snow covered terrain, or when it is snowing, when flying below 20m. fx_SnowEngineWash False
WaterBallastDrain Draining the water ballast, applies only to sailplanes. fx_WaterBallastDrain False
PistonFailure One or more pistons failed. fx_PistonFailure True
windshield_rain_effect_available Special case, set this to 0 to turn off the effect of rain on the windshield. Curtiss Jenny( windshield_rain_effect_available = 0 )
[autopilot]
The following parameters determine the functionality of the aircraft’s autopilot system, including the flight director.
Navigation Modes:
The navigation and glideslope controllers utilize standard proportional/integral /derivative feedback controllers (PID). The integrator and derivative controllers have boundaries, which are the maximum error from the controlled parameter in which these are active. It is not necessary to have all three components active. Setting the respective control constant to 0 effectively disables that component, allowing PI or PD controllers to be utilized. Navigation mode parameters begin with nav_ or gs_.
Property
Description
Examples
autopilot_available Setting this flag to a 1 makes available an autopilot system on the aircraft. Airbus A321( autopilot_available=1 )
Aircreation582SL( autopilot_available=0 )
flight_director_available Setting this flag to a 1 makes available a flight director on the aircraft. Airbus A321( flight_director_available=1 )
Aircreation582SL( flight_director_available=0 )
default_vertical_speed The default vertical speed, in feet per second, that the autopilot will command when selecting a large altitude change. Airbus A321( default_vertical_speed=1800 )
Boeing 747-400( default_vertical_speed = 1800.0 )
Beech Baron 58( default_vertical_speed= 700.0 )
Beech King Air 350( default_vertical_speed= 1800.0 )
autothrottle_available Setting this flag to a 1 makes available an autothrottle system on the aircraft. Boeing 747-400( autothrottle_available = 1 )
Beech Baron 58( autothrottle_available= 0 )
autothrottle_arming_required Setting this flag to 1 will require that the autothrottle be armed prior to it being engaged. Setting it to zero allows the autothrottle to be engaged directly. Boeing 747-400( autothrottle_arming_required = 1 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( autothrottle_arming_required= 0 )
autothrottle_max_rpm This sets the maximum engine speed, in percent, that the autothrottle will attempt to maintain. Airbus A321( autothrottle_max_rpm = 90 )
Boeing 747-400( autothrottle_max_rpm = 90 )
autothrottle_takeoff_ga Setting this flag to 1 enables takeoff / go-around operations with the autothrottle. Boeing 747-400( autothrottle_takeoff_ga = 1 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( autothrottle_takeoff_ga= 0 )
default_pitch_mode This determines the default pitch mode when the autopilot logic is turned on.
0 = None
1 = Pitch Hold (current pitch angle)
2 = Altitude Hold (current altitude)
If no value is set, Pitch Hold will be the default.
pitch_takeoff_ga The default pitch that the Takeoff/Go-Around mode references. Beech Baron 58( pitch_takeoff_ga=8.0 )
Douglas DC-3( pitch_takeoff_ga=0.0 )
max_pitch The maximum pitch angle in degrees that the autopilot will command either up or down. Airbus A321( max_pitch=10.0 )
max_pitch_acceleration The maximum angular pitch acceleration, in degrees per second squared, that the autopilot will command up or down. Airbus A321( max_pitch_acceleration=1.0 )
max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt The maximum angular pitch velocity, in degrees per second, which the autopilot will command when at an altitude below that specified by the variable max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt_breakpoint. Airbus A321( max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt=2.0 )
max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt The maximum angular pitch velocity, in degrees per second, which the autopilot will command when at an altitude above the altitude specified by the variable max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt_breakpoint. The maximum velocity is interpolated between the hi and lo altitude velocities when between the hi and lo altitude breakpoints. Airbus A321( max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt=1.5 )
max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt_breakpoint The altitude below which the autopilot maximum pitch velocity is limited by the variable max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt. Airbus A321( max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt_breakpoint=20000.0 )
max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt_breakpoint The altitude above which the autopilot maximum pitch velocity is limited by the variable max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt. The maximum velocity is interpolated between the hi and lo altitude velocities when between the hi and lo altitude breakpoints. Airbus A321( max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt_breakpoint=28000.0 )
max_bank The maximum bank angle in degrees that the autopilot will command either left or right.
Airbus A321( max_bank=25.0 )
Boeing 737-800( max_bank=30,25,20,15,10 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( max_bank=30,15 )
Douglas DC-3( max_bank=25.000000 )
max_bank_acceleration The maximum angular bank acceleration, in degrees per second squared, that the autopilot will command left or right. Airbus A321( max_bank_acceleration=1.8 )
max_bank_velocity The maximum angular bank velocity, in degrees per second, which the autopilot will command left or right. Douglas DC-3( max_bank_velocity=3.000000 )
max_throttle_rate This value sets the maximum rate at which the autothrottle will move the throttle position. In the example, the maximum rate is set to 10% of the total throttle range per second. Douglas DC-3( max_throttle_rate=0.100000 )
nav_proportional_control Proportional controller constant in lateral navigation modes. Airbus A321( nav_proportional_control=12.00 )
Boeing 747-400( nav_proportional_control=16.00 )
Beech Baron 58( nav_proportional_control=9.00 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( nav_proportional_control=11.00 )
nav_integrator_control Integral controller constant in lateral navigation modes. Airbus A321( nav_integrator_control=0.25 )
Boeing 747-400( nav_integrator_control=0.17 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( nav_integrator_control=0.20 )
Douglas DC-3( nav_integrator_control=0.250000 )
nav_derivative_control Derivative controller constant in lateral navigation modes. Airbus A321( nav_derivative_control=0.00 )
Douglas DC-3( nav_derivative_control=0.000000 )
nav_integrator_boundary The boundary, or maximum signal error, in degrees in which the integrator function is active. In the example, the integrator is active when the error is between -2.5 and +2.5 degrees from the centerline of the navigation signal. Airbus A321( nav_integrator_boundary=2.50 )
nav_derivative_boundary The boundary, or maximum signal error, in degrees in which the derivative function is active. In the example, the derivative controller is not active because the maximum error is set to 0. Airbus A321( nav_derivative_boundary=0.00 )
gs_proportional_control Proportional controller constant in glideslope mode. Airbus A321( gs_proportional_control=25.0 )
Boeing 747-400( gs_proportional_control = 18.0 )
Beech Baron 58( gs_proportional_control=9.52 )
Douglas DC-3( gs_proportional_control=9.520000 )
gs_integrator_control Integral controller constant in glideslope mode. Airbus A321( gs_integrator_control=0.53 )
Boeing 747-400( gs_integrator_control = 0.33 )
Beech Baron 58( gs_integrator_control=0.26 )
Douglas DC-3( gs_integrator_control=0.260000 )
gs_derivative_control Derivative controller constant in glideslope mode. Boeing 747-400( gs_derivative_control = 0.00 )
gs_integrator_boundary The boundary, or maximum signal error, in degrees in which the glideslope integrator function is active. In the example, the integrator is active when the error is between -0.7 and +0.7 degrees from the centerline of the glideslope signal. Boeing 747-400( gs_integrator_boundary = 0.70 )
gs_derivative_boundary The boundary, or maximum signal error, in degrees in which the derivative function is active. In the example, the derivative controller is not active because the maximum error is set to 0. Boeing 747-400( gs_derivative_boundary = 0.00 )
yaw_damper_gain The proportional gain on the yaw dampers yaw rate error. Airbus A321( yaw_damper_gain = 1.0 )
Beech Baron 58( yaw_damper_gain = 0.0 )
direction_indicator Indicates which direction indicator system on the aircraft is being referenced by the autopilot.
0 = the first, and is the default. Douglas DC-3( direction_indicator=1 )
attitude_indicator Indicates which attitude indicator system on the aircraft is being referenced by the autopilot.
0 = the first, and is the default. Douglas DC-3( attitude_indicator =1 )
default_bank_mode This determines the default bank mode when the autopilot logic is turned on.
0 = None
1 = Wing Level Hold
2 = Heading Hold (current heading).
If no value is set, Wing Level Hold will be the default. Douglas DC-3( default_bank_mode=2 )
Miscellaneous default AP modes:
The following flags are legacy, and were enabled to allow aircraft to be configured with no pitch and/or bank modes. While these flags are still supported, the preferred flags are included above in the respective vertical and lateral sections.
Property Description Examples
use_no_default_pitch Setting this flag to 1 will cause the default pitch mode to be "None". It will actually set the variable default_pitch_mode to zero, so that there is no default pitch mode when the autopilot logic is activated.
The preferred method is to tset the default_pitch_mode directly.
use_no_default_bank Setting this flag to 1 will cause the default bank mode to be "None". It will actually set the variable default_bank_mode to zero, so that there is no default bank mode when the autopilot logic is activated.
The preferred method is to tset the default_bank_mode directly. See examples for default_bank_mode
[fuel]
This section defines the characteristics of the fuel system, including the tanks, fuel type, and the number of fuel selectors. The number of fuel selectors is intended to match the number of visual selectors on the instrument panel.
Property
Description
Examples
center1
center2
center3
leftmain
leftaux
lefttip
rightmain
rightaux
righttip
external1
The aircraft configuration file (aircraft.cfg) represents the highest level of organization within an aircraft container. Each aircraft has its own configuration file located in its container (aircraft folder). For example, the Cessna 172 aircraft.cfg can be found at:
SimObjects\Airplanes\C172\aircraft.cfg
The aircraft.cfg file specifies the versions of the aircraft included in the aircraft container, as well as the attributes (name, color, sound, panels, gauges, and so on) for each aircraft and where to find the files that define those attributes. Within the aircraft.cfg file there are a number of sections. Brackets enclosing the section name identify the various sections. In order for the simulation to make proper use of any variable, it is important that the variable be located in the correct section. While exact spelling is important, none of the terms is case-sensitive.
Normally aircraft containers are added to the SimObjects/Airplanes folder, however this is not a requirement. The ESP.cfg file has entries in the [Main] section determining which path to search for aircraft and other containers. For example:
[Main]
User Objects=Airplane, Helicopter
SimObjectPaths.0=SimObjects\Airplanes
SimObjectPaths.1=SimObjects\Rotorcraft
Additional paths can be added to this file. The paths are either relative to the root folder of the simulation, or absolute paths -- which can also point to locations on other computers (using the "\\computer name" notation). For Windows XP the ESP.cfg file should be in the C:\Documents and Settings\<user name>\Application Data\Microsoft\ESP folder. For Windows Vista the file should be in the C:\Users\<user name>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\ESP folder.
See Also
Flight Models
Notes on Aircraft Systems
Simulation Object Configuration Files
Sound Configuration Files
SDK Overview
Table of Contents
Testing Changes to aircraft.cfg
Datum Reference Point
Sections of the Configuration File
[airplane_geometry]
[airspeed_indicators]
[altimeters]
[anemometers]
[antidetonation system]
[attitude_indicators]
[autopilot]
[brakes]
[cameradefinition.n]
[contact_points]
[deice_system]
[direction_indicators]
[effects]
[electrical]
[exits]
[flaps.n]
[flight_tuning]
[fltsim.n]
[folding_wings]
[forcefeedback]
[fuel]
[gear_warning_system]
[general]
[generalenginedata]
[gpws]
[hydraulic_system]
[jet_engine]
[keyboard_response]
[launch_assistance]
[lights]
[magneticcompass]
[nitrous system]
[piston_engine]
[pitot_static]
[pneumatic_system]
[pressurization]
[propeller]
[radios]
[realismconstants]
[reference speeds]
[smokesystem]
[stall_warning]
[tailhook]
[turbineenginedata]
[turboprop_engine]
[turn_indicators]
[vacuum_system]
[variometers]
[views]
[voicealerts]
[water ballast system]
[weight_and_balance]
[yaw_string]
Helicopter Specific Sections
[fuselage_aerodynamics]
[helicopter]
[mainrotor]
[secondaryrotor]
[sling]
[turboshaft_engine]
The Kneeboard, Model, Sound, Texture and Panel files
The Kneedboard Content Files
The Panel cfg File
The Model cfg File
The Sound cfg File
The Texture Folder
Notes on using Aliasing
Testing Changes to the aircraft.cfg file
To see the effects of a change, the aircraft must be reloaded (this is because aircraft are loaded into the memory cache from disk, so you have to flush the cache to enable your changes to take effect). This involves a couple of steps:
Configure a key command to Reload User Aircraft (which will reload your aircraft from within the simulation). To do this go to Settings, Controls Assignments, and scroll down to the Reload User Aircraft event. By default, it’s unassigned. Use Change Assignment to configure a keystroke combination for this event. Once assigned, you can use this key command to reload the aircraft within the simulation.
Turn off AI Traffic. AI traffic aircraft are maintained in the cache and even if you update the aircraft you are currently piloting, if the same aircraft is being used by AI traffic, then your cache won’t get updated automatically by simply reloading the plane. So to ensure your aircraft is reloaded from disk, you must also go to the Settings Screen, choose Traffic, and set the Air Traffic Density slider all the way to the left to 0%.
Now you can test changes made to an aircraft.cfg within the simulation by using the Reload User Aircraft key command after each change, or set of changes, is made.
Any errors made in creating or editing the aircraft.cfg file will show up, along with the following error messages, while an aircraft is being loaded. The error messages are listed in order; that is, the first error message represents an error early in the aircraft-loading process.
Error Message Description
Aircraft initialization failure. Indicates that some essential files are missing from the aircraft container. If the files are missing, the aircraft will not usually be displayed in the Select Aircraft dialog box; as a result, this error is rare.
Failed to start up the flight model. The .air file was not loaded successfully.
This is not a Flight Simulator aircraft model. The visual model (.mdl) file for this aircraft is not compatible with ESP.
Visual model could not be displayed. An error occurred while loading the visual model (.mdl) file.
Datum Reference Point
Positions of aircraft components are given relative to the datum reference point for the aircraft, in the order: longitudinal, lateral, vertical. The convention for positions is positive equals forward, to the right, and vertically upward. Units are in feet.
The datum reference point itself is specified in the weight_and_balance section.
Sections of the Configuration File
[fltsim.n]
Each [fltsim.n] section of an aircraft configuration file represents a different version (configuration) of the aircraft, and is known as a configuration set. Configuration sets allow a single aircraft container to represent several aircraft, and allow those aircraft to share components.
If there is only one section (labeled [fltsim.0]), it is because there is only one configuration set in that aircraft container. If there is more than one configuration set (labeled [fltsim.0], [fltsim.1], [fltsim.2], and so on), each one refers to a different version of the aircraft.
For instance, there are several versions of the Cessna 172, all housed in the same C172 aircraft container (folder). The various versions must vary by their title, and may also vary other items such as the panel, description, and sounds.
While these configuration sets share many components, they can each use different panels. The panel= line in the respective fltsim sections thus refer to the respective panel folder for each aircraft: For example, panel=ifr means that this version of the C172 uses the panel files in the panel.ifr subfolder.
When creating and referencing multiple model, panel, sound, and texture directories, use the naming convention foldername.extension, where the extension is a unique identifier for that configuration set (for example, .ifr). To refer to the folder from the relevant parameter in the aircraft.cfg file, just specify the extension (for example, panel=ifr). If a parameter is not explicitly set it automatically refers to the default (extension-less) folder.
The parameters in each configuration set can refer to the same files, to different files, or to a mix of files. While using different panels, all Cessna configurations use the same sounds, and thus the sound parameters in all the fltsim sections point to the single sound folder in the C172 folder.
Each aircraft defined by a configuration set will appear as a separate listing in the Select Aircraft dialog box. The fact that multiple aircraft share some components is hidden from the user. From a user’s perspective, they are distinct aircraft (just as if all the common files were duplicated and included in three distinct aircraft containers). From a developer’s perspective, the aircraft are really just different configuration sets of the same aircraft. Because they share some files, they make much more efficient use of disk space.
Within each [fltsim.n] section are parameters that define the details of that particular configuration set:
Property
Description
Examples
title The title of the aircraft. Airbus A321( title=Airbus A321 )
Aircreation582SL( title= Aircreation582SL )
Boeing 737-800( title=Boeing 737-800 )
Boeing 747-400( title=Boeing 747-400 )
sim Specifies which AIR (flight model) file to use. The file is located in the same folder as the aircraft configuration file. Refer to Flight Models for details on how to create an AIR file. Airbus A321( sim=Airbus_A321 )
Aircreation582SL( sim=trike )
Boeing 737-800( sim=Boeing737-800 )
Boeing 747-400( sim=Boeing747-400 )
model Specifies which model folder to reference. If no entry is made, the default folder is used. Airbus A321( model= )
panel Specifies which panel folder to reference. Airbus A321( panel= )
Beech Baron 58( panel=g1000 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( panel=G1000 )
sound Specifies which sound folder to reference. Airbus A321( sound= )
texture Specifies which texture folder to reference. Airbus A321( texture= )
Aircreation582SL( texture=1 )
Boeing 737-800( texture=2 )
Boeing 747-400( texture=3 )
kb_checklists Specifies which _check.txt file (located in the aircraft folder) to use on the Checklists tab of the kneeboard. Boeing 737-800( kb_checklists=Boeing737-800_check )
Boeing 747-400( kb_checklists=Boeing747-400_check )
Beech Baron 58( kb_checklists=Beech_Baron_58_check )
kb_reference Specifies which _ref.txt file (located in the aircraft folder) to use on the Reference tab of the kneeboard. Boeing 737-800( kb_reference=Boeing737-800_ref )
Boeing 747-400( kb_reference=Boeing747-400_ref )
Beech Baron 58( kb_reference=Beech_Baron_58_ref )
atc_id The tail number displayed on the exterior of the aircraft. This parameter can also be edited from the Select Aircraft dialog (if the atc_id_enable parameter is set to 1). Note that custom tail numbers burned into textures will not be modified by this. Boeing 737-800( atc_id=N737Z )
Boeing 747-400( atc_id=N747 )
Beech Baron 58( atc_id=N058BE )
atc_airline The ATC system will use the specified airline name with this aircraft. This is dependant on ATC recognizing the name. ATC will treat this aircraft as an airliner when this is used in conjunction with atc_flight_number. Boeing 737-800( atc_airline=American Pacific )
Boeing 747-400( atc_airline=Global Freightways )
Cessna Grand Caravan( atc_airline=Landmark )
atc_flight_number The ATC system will use this number as part of the aircrafts callsign. ATC will treat this aircraft as an airliner when this is used in conjunction with atc_airline. Boeing 737-800( atc_flight_number=1123 )
ui_manufacturer This value identifies the manufacturer sub-category used to group aircraft in the Select Aircraft dialog in ESP. Airbus A321( ui_manufacturer="Airbus" )
Aircreation582SL( ui_manufacturer="AirCreation" )
Boeing 737-800( ui_manufacturer="Boeing" )
Beech Baron 58( ui_manufacturer="Beechcraft" )
ui_type This value identifies the type sub-category used to group aircraft in the Select Aircraft dialog in ESP. Airbus A321( ui_type="A321" )
Aircreation582SL( ui_type= "582 SL Trike" )
Boeing 737-800( ui_type="737-800" )
Boeing 747-400( ui_type="747-400" )
ui_variation This value identifies the variation sub-category used to group aircraft in the Select Aircraft dialog in ESP. Aircreation582SL( ui_variation="Green Wing" )
Boeing 737-800( ui_variation="American Pacific Airways" )
Boeing 747-400( ui_variation="Global Freightways" )
ui_typerole This value identifies the role of the aircraft. Airbus A321( ui_typerole="Commercial Airliner" )
Aircreation582SL( ui_typerole="Single Engine Prop" )
Beech Baron 58( ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop" )
Beech King Air 350( ui_typerole="Twin Engine TurboProp" )
ui_createdby This value is used to identify the creator of the configuration file. Airbus A321( ui_createdby="Microsoft Corporation" )
description The aircraft description can be modified to say whatever you like about the aircraft. This information will be displayed in a description box when the aircraft is selected. (The \s is used to produce a semicolon ( ; ) punctuation mark within the description.). Boeing 737-800( description="One should hardly be surprised that the world's most prolific manufacturer of commercial aircraft is also the producer of the world's most popular jetliner. The 737 became the best-selling commercial jetliner worldwide when orders for it hit 1,831 in June 1987 (surpassing Boeing's own 727 as the previous champ). However, it wasn't always that way\s in the first few years of production, there were so few orders that Boeing considered canceling the program. They didn't, and the airplane has more than proven itself in over three decades of service." )
Boeing 747-400( description="More than 30 years ago, the 747 made its first trip from New York to London. Since then, it's become the standard by which other large passenger jets are judged. Its size, range, speed and capacity were then, and are now, the best in its class." )
visual_damage Setting this flag to 1 enables visual damage (e.g. parts breaking off) to be seen when crashing the aircraft into the scenery. Note: visual damage will only work if it is built into the aircrafts .mdl file. Aircreation582SL( visual_damage=1 )
atc_heavy Setting this flag to 1 will result in the ATC system appending the phrase heavy to the aircrafts callsign. Aircreation582SL( atc_heavy=0 )
Boeing 747-400( atc_heavy=1 )
atc_parking_types Specifies the preferred parking for this aircraft, used by ATC. If this line is omitted, ATC will determine parking according to the type of aircraft and parking available. If multiple values are listed, preference will be given in the order in which they are listed. The valid values may be one or more of the following: RAMP, CARGO, GATE, DOCK, MIL_CARGO, MIL_COMBAT. Aircreation582SL( atc_parking_types=RAMP )
Boeing 747-400( atc_parking_types=CARGO )
de Havilland Dash 8-100( atc_parking_types=GATE,RAMP )
atc_parking_codes Specifies one or more ICAO airline designations so that ATC can direct the aircraft to a gate that has also been designated specifically for that same airline, for example, "AAL" for American Airlines. Refer to the example XML for the TaxiwayParking entry in the Compiling BGL document. The codes entered in the airlineCodes entry should match the text entered here. The ICAO codes do not have to be used, and can be as short as one character, as long as the text strings match, but for clarity use of the ICAO codes is recommended.
If mutliple parking codes are entered, separate them with commas.
atc_id_color Specifies, in RGB hexadecimal, the color of the tail number. The first two characters following the 0x specify the red value in hex, the second two characters the green, and the third set the blue. The final two characters are unused. Each value can be between 0 to ff hex, which is 0 to 255 decimal. Note that custom tail numbers burned into textures will not be modified by this. Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( atc_id_color=0xffffffff )
Cessna Grand Caravan( atc_id_color=0xff000000 )
Extra 300S( atc_id_color=0xffff0000 )
prop_anim_ratio The ratio of rotor revolutions rendered to the actual revolutions in the simulator. Bell 206B JetRanger( prop_anim_ratio=-1.76 )
atc_model This is the specific aircraft model that the ATC system recognizes for this type of aircraft. Bell 206B JetRanger( atc_model= )
[general]
In addition to the fltsim sections, the general section contains information related to all variations of the aircraft.
Property
Description
Examples
atc_type This is the specific aircraft type that the ATC system recognizes for this type of aircraft. Aircreation582SL( atc_type=Ultralight )
Boeing 737-800( atc_type=BOEING )
Beech Baron 58( atc_type=BARON )
atc_model This is the specific aircraft model that the ATC system recognizes for this type of aircraft. Aircreation582SL( atc_model=Trike )
Boeing 737-800( atc_model=B738 )
Boeing 747-400( atc_model=B744 )
editable Unused.
performance The performance description for the aircraft can be edited. The \t is a tab character, and the \n is a new-line character. As the flight model for all variations is the same, the performance of each variation should also be identical. Aircreation582SL( performance="Wing span: 10.6 m\nLength: 2.57 m\nWeight: 1.96 m\nHeight: 2.57 m\nEngine: 582 Rotax 1 x CDI 53 hp\nPropeller: 2 wood blades\nFuel tank composite 52 liters ( 8 US Gal)\nDesigner: MJPP Design\nDate: 15\/11\/02\n\n" )
Boeing 737-800( performance="Cruise Speed \n477 kts 550 mph 885 km\/h\n\nEngines \nCFM56-3C1\n\nMaximum Range \n2,059 nm 2,370 mi 3,810 km\n\nService Ceiling \n36, 089 ft 11,000 m\n\nFuel Capacity \n5,311 U.S. gal 20,104 L\n\nEmpty Weight-Standard \n76,180 lb 34,550 kg\n\nMaximum Gross Weight\n150,000 lb 68,039 kg\n\nLength \n120 ft 36.45 m\n\nWingspan \n94 ft, 9 in 25.9 m\n\nHeight \n36.5 ft 11.13 m\n\nSeating \nSeats 147 to 168\n\nCargo Capacity \n1,373 ft3 38.93 m3\n\n" )
Boeing 747-400( performance="Cruise Speed\n0.85 Mach 565 mph 910 km\/h\n\nEngine options\nPratt & Whitney PW4062\nRolls-Royce RB211-524H\nGeneral Electric CF6-80C2B5F\n\nMaximum Range\n7,325 nm 13,570 km\n\nMaximum Certified Operating Altitude 45,100 ft 13,747 m\n\nFuel Capacity\n57,285 gal 216,840 L\n\nBasic Empty Weight\n394,088 lb 178,755 kg\n\nMax Gross Weight 875,000 lb 396,893 kg\n\nLength\n231 ft, 10 in 70.6 m\n\nWingspan\n211 ft, 5 in 64.4 m\n\nHeight\n63 ft, 8 in 19.4 m\n\nSeating Typical 3-class configuration - 416\nTypical 2-class configuration - 524" )
category For aircraft, one of airplane or helicopter. Airbus A321( Category = airplane )
Maule M7 260C( category = Airplane )
Bell 206B JetRanger( Category = Helicopter )
[pitot_static]
The vertical_speed_time_constant parameter can be used to tune the lag of the Vertical Speed Indicator for the aircraft:
Increasing the time constant decreases the lag, making the gauge react more quickly.
Decreasing the time constant increases the lag, making the gauge react more slowly.
A value of 0 effectively causes the indication to freeze. If an instantaneous indication is desired, use an excessively large value, such as 99.
If the line is omitted, the default value is 2.0.
Property
Description
Examples
vertical_speed_time_constant Increases or decreases the lag of the vertical speed indicator. Increasing will cause a more instantaneous reaction in the VSI. Airbus A321( vertical_speed_time_constant = 1 )
Beech Baron 58( vertical_speed_time_constant = 1.0 )
Sailplane( vertical_speed_time_constant = 4 )
pitot_heat Scale of heat effectiveness, or 0 if not available. Airbus A321( pitot_heat = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( pitot_heat=0.000000 )
Sailplane( pitot_heat = 0.0 )
[weight_and_balance]
The weight and center of gravity of the aircraft can be affected through the following parameters.
Note
In the stock aircraft, the station_load.0, 1, etc. parameters are enclosed in quotation marks. These are used by internal language translation tools.
Moments of Inertia
A moment of inertia (MOI) defines the mass distribution about an axis of an aircraft. A moment of inertia for a particular axis is increased as mass is increased and/or as the given mass is distributed farther from the axis. This is largely what determines the inertial characteristics of the aircraft.
The following weight and balance parameters define the MOIs of the empty aircraft, so the values should not reflect fuel, passengers or baggage. The simulation engine determines the total MOIs with these additional, and variable, influences. The units are slugs per foot squared. Omission of a parameter will result in the use of a default value set in the .air file, if one exists.
These values can be estimated with the following formula:
MOI = EmptyWeight * (D^2 / K)
Where:
Pitch Roll Yaw
D = Length (feet) Wingspan (feet) 0.5* (Length+Wingspan)
K = 810 1870 770 This formula yields only rough estimates. Actual values vary based on aircraft material, installed equipment, and number of engines and their positions.
Property
Description
Examples
max_gross_weight Maximum design gross weight of the aircraft. Airbus A321( max_gross_weight = 150000 )
Aircreation582SL( max_gross_weight= 600.000 )
Boeing 747-400( max_gross_weight = 875000 )
Beech Baron 58( max_gross_weight = 5524 )
empty_weight Total weight (in pounds) of the aircraft minus usable fuel, passengers, and cargo. If not specified, the value previously set in the .air file will be used. Airbus A321( empty_weight = 74170 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight= 310.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight = 394088 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight = 3911 )
reference_datum_position Offset (in feet) of the aircraft's reference datum from the standard center point, which is on the centerline chord aft of the leading edge. By adjusting this position, actual aircraft loading data can be used directly according to the aircraft's manufacturer. If not specified, the default is 0,0,0. Aircreation582SL( reference_datum_position= 0.000, 0.000, 0.000 )
Boeing 747-400( reference_datum_position = 83.5, 0, 0 )
Beech Baron 58( reference_datum_position = 6.96, 0, 0 )
empty_weight_cg_position Offset (in feet) of the center of gravity of the basic empty aircraft (no fuel, passengers, or baggage) from the datum reference point . Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_CG_position= 0.000, 0.000, 0.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight_CG_position = -90.5, 0, 0 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_CG_position = -6.06, 0, 0 )
max_number_of_stations Specifies the maximum number of stations (specific locations) for the aircraft when it is loaded. This does allow an unlimited number of stations to be specified, but note that an excessively large number here results in a longer load time for the aircraft when selected, although there is no effect on real-time performance. Airbus A321( max_number_of_stations = 50 )
Aircreation582SL( max_number_of_stations=50 )
Douglas DC-3( max_number_of_stations =50 )
station_load.0
to
station_load.n Specifies the weight and position of passengers or payload at a station specified with a unique number, station_load.N. The first parameter number on each line specifies the weight (in pounds), followed by the offset relative to datum reference point. The addition of stations results in a corresponding change in aircraft flight dynamics due to the change of the total weight and moments of inertia. Airbus A321( station_load.0 = 170.0, 41.0, -1.5, 0.0 )
Aircreation582SL( station_load.0=0.000000,0.000000,0.000000,0.000000 )
Boeing 747-400( station_load.0 = 170.0, -19.0, -2.0, 8.0 )
Beech Baron 58( station_load.0 = 170, -6.54, -1.20, 0.0 )
Airbus A321( station_load.8 = 4000.0, -27.5, 0.0, 0.0 )
Boeing 747-400( station_load.8 = 23800.0, -160.0, 0.0, 0.0 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( station_load.8 = 0, -23.2, -1.5, 0.0 )
Douglas DC-3( station_load.8 = 340.0, -33.7, 0.0, 0.0 )
station_name.0
to
station_name.n This field is the string name that is used in the Payload dialog (15 character limit). Omission of this will result in a generic station name being used.
Note that the station name can also follow the station_load information, for example:
Airbus A321( station_load.0 = 170.0, 41.0, -1.5, 0.0, Pilot) McDonnell-Douglas/Boeing MD-83( station_name.0 = "Payload" )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( station_name.1 = "Front Passenger" )
Airbus A321( station_name.0 = "Pilot" )
Airbus A321( station_name.1 = "Co-Pilot" )
Airbus A321( station_name.2 = "Crew" )
Airbus A321( station_name.3 = "First Class" )
Airbus A321( station_name.4 = "Coach 3-10" )
Airbus A321( station_name.5 = "Coach 11-18" )
Airbus A321( station_name.6 = "Coach 19-25" )
Airbus A321( station_name.7 = "Forward Baggage" )
Airbus A321( station_name.8 = "Aft Baggage" )
empty_weight_pitch_moi The moment of inertia (MOI) about the lateral axis. Airbus A321( empty_weight_pitch_MOI = 3172439 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_pitch_MOI= 230.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight_pitch_MOI = 24223159 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_pitch_MOI = 3905.65 )
empty_weight_roll_moi The moment of inertia (MOI) about the longitudinal axis. Airbus A321( empty_weight_roll_MOI = 2262183 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_roll_MOI= 205.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight_roll_MOI = 13352310 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_roll_MOI = 2718.64 )
empty_weight_yaw_moi The moment of inertia (MOI) about the vertical axis. Airbus A321( empty_weight_yaw_MOI = 3337024 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_yaw_MOI= 290.000 )
Boeing 747-400( empty_weight_yaw_MOI = 39531785 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_yaw_MOI = 5291.04 )
empty_weight_coupled_moi The moment of inertia (MOI) about the roll and yaw axis (usually zero). Airbus A321( empty_weight_coupled_MOI = 0 )
Aircreation582SL( empty_weight_coupled_MOI= 0.000 )
Beech Baron 58( empty_weight_coupled_MOI= 0.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( empty_weight_coupled_MOI = 0.0 )
[flight_tuning]
Flight control effectiveness parameters
The elevator, aileron and elevator effectiveness parameters are multipliers on the default power of the control surfaces. For example, a value of 1.1 increases the effectiveness by 10 percent. Likewise, a value of 0.9 decreases the effectiveness by 10 percent. A negative number reverses the normal effect of the control. Omission of a parameter results in the default value of 1.0.
Stability parameters
The pitch, roll and yaw parameters are multipliers on the default stability (damping effect) about the corresponding axis of the airplane. For example, a value of 1.1 increases the damping by 10%. Likewise, a value of 0.9 decreases the damping by 10%. A negative number results in an unstable characteristic about the axis. A positive damping effect is simply a moment in the direction opposite of the rotational velocity. Omission of a parameter will result in the default value of 1.0.
Lift parameter
The cruise_lift_scalar parameter is a multiplier on the coefficient of lift at zero angle of attack Cruise lift in this context refers to the lift at relatively small angles of attack, which is typical for an airplane in a cruise condition. This scaling is decreased linearly as angle of attack moves toward the critical (stall) angle of attack, which prevents destabilizing low speed and stall characteristics at high angles of attack. Modify this value to set the angle of attack (and thus pitch) for a cruise condition. A negative value is not advised, as this will result in extremely unnatural flight characteristics. Omission of this parameter results in the default value of 1.0.
High Angle of Attack parameters
The hi_alpha_on_roll and hi_alpha_on_yaw parameters are multipliers on the effects on roll and yaw at high angles of attack. The default values are 1.0.
Propeller-induced turning effect parameters
The p_factor_on_yaw, torque_on_roll, gyro_precession_on_pitch and gyro_precession_on_yaw parameters are multipliers on the effects induced by rotating propellers. These are often called “left turning tendencies” for clockwise rotating propellers. The simulation correctly handles counter-clockwise rotating propellers. The default values are 1.0.
Drag parameters
Drag is the aerodynamic force that determines the aircraft speed and acceleration. There are two basic types of drag that the user can adjust here. Parasitic drag is composed of two basic elements: form drag, which results from the interference of streamlined airflow, and skin friction. Parasite drag increases as airspeed increases. Induced drag results from the production of lift. Induced drag increases as angle of attack increases.
The parasite_drag_scalar and induced_drag_scalar parameters are multipliers on the two respective drag coefficients. For example, a value of 1.1 increases the respective drag component by 10 percent. A value of 0.9 decreases the drag by 10 Percent. Negative values are not advised, as extremely unnatural flight characteristics will result. The default values are 1.0.
Property
Description
Examples
cruise_lift_scalar CL0. Airbus A321( cruise_lift_scalar = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( cruise_lift_scalar=1.000 )
parasite_drag_scalar Cd0. Airbus A321( parasite_drag_scalar = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( parasite_drag_scalar=1.000 )
induced_drag_scalar Cdi. Airbus A321( induced_drag_scalar = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( induced_drag_scalar=1.000 )
elevator_effectiveness Cmde. Airbus A321( elevator_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( elevator_effectiveness=1.000 )
aileron_effectiveness Clda. Airbus A321( aileron_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( aileron_effectiveness=1.000 )
rudder_effectiveness Cndr. Airbus A321( rudder_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( rudder_effectiveness=0.501 )
pitch_stability Cmq. Airbus A321( pitch_stability = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( pitch_stability=1.000 )
roll_stability Clp. Airbus A321( roll_stability = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( roll_stability=1.000 )
yaw_stability Cnr. Airbus A321( yaw_stability = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( yaw_stability=1.000 )
elevator_trim_effectiveness Cmdetr. Airbus A321( elevator_trim_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( elevator_trim_effectiveness=1.000 )
aileron_trim_effectiveness Cldatr. Airbus A321( aileron_trim_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( aileron_trim_effectiveness=1.000 )
rudder_trim_effectiveness Cndrtr. Airbus A321( rudder_trim_effectiveness = 1.0 )
Aircreation582SL( rudder_trim_effectiveness=1.000 )
hi_alpha_on_roll See notes above.
hi_alpha_on_yaw
p_factor_on_yaw See notes above. Douglas DC-3( p_factor_on_yaw = 0.5 )
Piper Cub( p_factor_on_yaw = 0.3 )
torque_on_roll Douglas DC-3( torque_on_roll = 1.0 )
Extra 300S( torque_on_roll = 0.5 )
Piper Cub( torque_on_roll = 0.3 )
gyro_precession_on_yaw See notes above. Douglas DC-3( gyro_precession_on_yaw = 1.0 )
Piper Cub( gyro_precession_on_yaw = 0.3 )
gyro_precession_on_pitch Douglas DC-3( gyro_precession_on_pitch = 1.0 )
Piper Cub( gyro_precession_on_pitch = 0.3 )
[generalenginedata]
Every type of aircraft, even a glider, should have this section in the aircraft.cfg file. Basically, this section describes the type of engine, the number of engines, where the engines are located, and a fuel flow scalar to modify how much fuel the engine requires to produce the calculated power.
Property
Description
Examples
engine_type Integer that identifies what type of engine is on the aircraft. 0 = piston, 1 = Jet, 2 = None, 3 = Helo-turbine, 4 = Rocket (not supported) 5 = Turboprop. Airbus A321( engine_type = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( engine_type= 0 )
Beech Baron 58( engine_type = 0 )
Beech King Air 350( engine_type = 5 )
engine.0
to
engine.n Offset of the engine from the datum reference point. Each engine location specified increases the engine count (maximum of four engines allowed). Airbus A321( Engine.0 = 4.75, -16.1, -4.5 )
Aircreation582SL( Engine.0= -3.000, 0.000, 2.000 )
Beech Baron 58( Engine.0 = -1.4, -5.3, 0.0 )
Boeing 747-400( Engine.0 = -107.5, -69.5, -6.9 )
Boeing 747-400( Engine.1 = -76.0, -38.9, -10.4 )
Boeing 747-400( Engine.2 = -76.0, 38.9, -10.4 )
Boeing 747-400( Engine.3 = -107.5, 69.5, -6.9 )
fuel_flow_scalar Scalar for modifying the fuel flow required by the engine(s). A value of less than 1.0 causes a slower fuel consumption for a given power setting, a value greater than 1.0 causes the aircraft to burn more fuel for a given power setting. Airbus A321( fuel_flow_scalar = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( fuel_flow_scalar= 1.000 )
Boeing 747-400( fuel_flow_scalar = 1.0 )
Beech Baron 58( fuel_flow_scalar= 0.9 )
min_throttle_limit Defines the minimum throttle position (percent of max). Normally 0 for piston aircraft and -0.25 for turbine airplane engines with reverse thrust. Airbus A321( min_throttle_limit = -0.25 )
Aircreation582SL( min_throttle_limit=0.000000 )
Boeing 747-400( min_throttle_limit = -0.25; )
Beech Baron 58( min_throttle_limit = 0.0; )
max_contrail_temperature Ambient temperature, in celsius, in which engine vapor contrails will turn on. The default value is about -39 degrees celsius for turbine engines. For piston engines, the contrail effect is turned off unless a temperature value is set here. Airbus A321( max_contrail_temperature = -30 )
master_ignition_switch 1=Available, 0=Not Available (default). If available, this switch must be on for the ignition circuit, and thus the engines, to be operable. Turning it off will stop all engines. Douglas DC-3( master_ignition_switch = 1 )
starter_type Set to 1 for a Manual Starter Curtiss Jenny( starter_type = 1 )
thrustanglepitchheading.0 Thrust pitch and heading angles in degrees ( positive pitch down, positive heading right). Cessna Skyhawk 172SP Paint1 ( ThrustAnglePitchHeading.0 = 0,0 )
[turbineenginedata]
A turbine engine ignites fuel and compressed air to create thrust. These parameters define the power (thrust) output of a given jet turbine engine.
Property
Description
Examples
fuel_flow_gain Fuel flow gain constant. Airbus A321( fuel_flow_gain = 0.002 )
Boeing 747-400( fuel_flow_gain = 0.002 )
Beech King Air 350( fuel_flow_gain = 0.011 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( fuel_flow_gain = 0.0025 )
inlet_area Engine nacelle inlet area, (in square feet). Airbus A321( inlet_area = 19.6 )
Boeing 747-400( inlet_area = 60.0 )
Beech King Air 350( inlet_area = 1.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( inlet_area = 9.4 )
rated_n2_rpm Second stage compressor rated rpm. Airbus A321( rated_N2_rpm = 29920 )
Boeing 747-400( rated_N2_rpm = 29920 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( rated_N2_rpm = 33000 )
static_thrust Maximum rated static thrust at sea level (lbs). Airbus A321( static_thrust = 23500 )
Boeing 747-400( static_thrust = 56750 )
Beech King Air 350( static_thrust = 158 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( static_thrust = 12670 )
afterburner_available A number, indicating the number of afterburner stages available. Airbus A321( afterburner_available = 0 )
Boeing 747-400( afterburner_available = 0 )
FA-18 Hornet ( afterburner_available = 6 )
reverser_available Specifies the scalar on the calculated reverse thrust effect. A value of 0 will cause no reverse thrust to be available. A value of 1.0 will cause the theoretical normal reverse thrust to be available. Other values will scale the normal calculated value accordingly. Airbus A321( reverser_available = 1 )
Boeing 747-400( reverser_available = 1 )
thrustspecificfuelconsumption Jet thrust specific fuel consumption. The ratio of fuel used in pounds per hour, to thrust in pounds. Applies at all speeds. Boeing 737-800 Paint1( ThrustSpecificFuelConsumption = 0.6 )
Boeing 747-400 Paint1( ThrustSpecificFuelConsumption = 0.4 )
afterburnthrustspecificfuelconsumption Jet thrust specific fuel consumption. The ratio of fuel used in pounds per hour, to thrust in pounds. Applies only when the afterburner is active. Boeing 737-800 Paint1( AfterBurnThrustSpecificFuelConsumption = 0 )
FA-18 Hornet ( AfterBurnThrustSpecificFuelConsumption = 0.5 )
afterburner_throttle_threshold Percentage of throttle range when the afterburner engages. FA-18 Hornet ( afterburner_throttle_threshold = 0.76 )
[jet_engine]
The thrust_scalar parameter scales the calculated thrust for jet engines (thrust taken from the [TurbineEngineData] section).
Property
Description
Examples
thrust_scalar Parameter that scales the calculated thrust provided by the propeller. Airbus A321( thrust_scalar = 1.0 )
[electrical]
These parameters configure the characteristics of the aircraft's electrical system and its components. Each aircraft has a battery as well as an alternator or generator for each engine.
Below is a table of electrical section parameters shown with default values for Bus Type, Max Amp Load and Min Voltage (the values applied if the parameters are omitted). The default Min Voltage equals 0.7*Max Battery Voltage. The list of components also reflects all of the systems currently linked to the electrical system. If a component is included in the list but the aircraft does not actually have that system, the component is simply ignored.
Bus Type
Specifies which bus in the electrical system the component is connected to, according to the following bus type codes:
Bus Type Bus
0 Main Bus (most components connected here)
1 Avionics Bus
2 Battery Bus
3 Hot Battery Bus (bypasses Master switch)
4 Generator/Alternator Bus 1 (function of engine 1)
5 Generator/Alternator Bus 2 (function of engine 2)
6 Generator/Alternator Bus 3 (function of engine 3)
7 Generator/Alternator Bus 4 (function of engine 4)
Max Amp Load
Max Amp Load is the current required to power the component, and of course becomes the additional load on the electrical system.
Min Voltage
Min Voltage is the minimum voltage required from the specified bus for the component to function.
Property
Description
Examples
flap_motor Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( flap_motor = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
gear_motor Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( gear_motor = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
autopilot Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( autopilot = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
avionics_bus Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( avionics_bus = 0, 5, 17.0 )
Boeing 747-400( avionics_bus = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( avionics_bus = 0, 5 , 9.5 )
avionics Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( avionics = 1, 5 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( avionics = 1, 5 , 9.5 )
pitot_heat Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( pitot_heat = 0, 2 , 17.0 )
additional_system Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( additional_system = 0, 2, 17.0 )
Beech King Air 350( additional_system = 0, 2 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( additional_system = 0, 2 , 9.5 )
marker_beacon Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( marker_beacon = 1, 2 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( marker_beacon = 1, 2 , 9.0 )
gear_warning Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( gear_warning = 0, 2 , 17.0 )
fuel_pump Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( fuel_pump = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( fuel_pump = 0, 5 , 9.0 )
starter1 Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( starter1 = 0, 20, 17.0 )
starter2 Bus type, max amp, min voltage
starter3 Bus type, max amp, min voltage
starter4 Bus type, max amp, min voltage
light_nav Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_nav = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_beacon Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_beacon = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_landing Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_landing = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_taxi Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_taxi = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_strobe Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_strobe = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_panel Bus type, max amp, min voltage Airbus A321( light_panel = 0, 5 , 17.0 )
light_cabin Bus type, max amp, min voltage
prop_sync Bus type, max amp, min voltage
auto_feather Bus type, max amp, min voltage
auto_brakes Bus type, max amp, min voltage
standby_vacuum Bus type, max amp, min voltage
hydraulic_pump Bus type, max amp, min voltage
fuel_transfer_pump Bus type, max amp, min voltage
propeller_deice Bus type, max amp, min voltage
light_recognition Bus type, max amp, min voltage
light_wing Bus type, max amp, min voltage
light_logo Bus type, max amp, min voltage
directional_gyro Bus type, max amp, min voltage
directional_gyro_slaving Bus type, max amp, min voltage
max_battery_voltage The maximum voltage to which the battery can be charged. It is also the voltage available from the battery when the aircraft is initialized. The battery voltage will decrease from this if the generators or alternators are not supplying enough current to meet the demand of the active components. Beech Baron 58( max_battery_voltage = 24.0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( max_battery_voltage = 24 )
Extra 300S( max_battery_voltage = 12.0 )
Maule M7 260C( max_battery_voltage = 12.0 )
generator_alternator_voltage Voltage of the generators or alternators. Beech Baron 58( generator_alternator_voltage = 28.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( generator_alternator_voltage = 25.0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( generator_alternator_voltage = 28 )
Douglas DC-3( generator_alternator_voltage = 25 )
max_generator_alternator_amps Maximum generator/alternator amps. Beech Baron 58( max_generator_alternator_amps = 60.0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( max_generator_alternator_amps = 40.0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( max_generator_alternator_amps = 50 )
Douglas DC-3( max_generator_alternator_amps = 100 )
engine_generator_map List of flags, corresponding to the number of engines, indicating whether there is a generator configured with the engine. Ford 4-AT-E Tri-Motor( engine_generator_map= 0,1,0 )
electric_always_available Set to 1 if electric power is available regardless of the state of the battery or circuit.
[contact_points]
You can configure and adjust the way aircraft reacts to different kinds of contact, including landing gear contact and articulation, braking, steering, and damage accrued through excessive speed. You can also configure each contact point independently for each aircraft, and there is no limit to the number of points you can add. When importing an aircraft that does not contain this set of data, the program will generate the data from the .air file the first time the aircraft is loaded, and then write it to the aircraft.cfg.
Each contact point contains a series of values that define the characteristics of the point, separated by commas. A contact point has 16 parameters, described in the following table:
Contact Point Parameter (and example) Element Description
1 (1) Class Integer defining the type of contact point: 0 = None, 1 = Wheel, 2 = Scrape, 3 = Skid, 4 = Float, 5 = Water Rudder
2 (-18.0) Longitudinal Position The longitudinal distance of the point from the datum reference point.
3 (0) Lateral Position The lateral distance of the point from the datum reference point.
4 (-3.35) Vertical Position The vertical distance of the point from the datum reference point.
5 (3200) Impact Damage Threshold The speed at which an impact with the ground can cause damage (feet/min).
6 (0) Brake Map Defines which brake input drives the brake (wheels only).
0 = None, 1 = Left Brake, 2 = Right Brake.
7 (0.50) Wheel Radius Radius of the wheel (feet).
8 (180) Steering Angle The maximum angle (positive and negative) that a wheel can pivot (degrees).
9 (0.25) Static Compression This is the distance a landing gear is compressed when the empty aircraft is at rest on the ground (feet). This term defines the “strength” of the strut, where a smaller number will increase the “stiffness” of the strut.
10 (2.5) Ratio of Maximum Compression to Static Compression Ratio of the max dynamic compression available in the strut to the static value. Can be useful in coordinating the “compression” of the strut when landing.
11 (0.90) Damping Ratio This ratio describes how well the ground reaction oscillations are damped. A value of 1.0 is considered critically damped, meaning there will be little or no osciallation. A damping ratio of 0.0 is considered undamped, meaning that the oscillations will continue with a constant magnitude. Negative values result in an unstable ground handling situation, and values greater than 1.0 might also cause instabilities by being “over” damped. Typical values range from 0.6 to 0.95.
12 (1.0) Extension Time The amount of time it takes the landing gear to fully extend under normal conditions (seconds). A value of zero indicates a fixed gear.
13 (4.0) Retraction Time The amount of time it takes the landing gear to fully retract under normal conditions (seconds). A value of zero indicates a fixed gear.
14 (0) Sound Type This integer value will map a point to a type of sound:
0 = Center Gear,
1 = Auxiliary Gear,
2 = Left Gear,
3 = Right Gear,
4 = Fuselage Scrape,
5 = Left Wing Scrape,
6 = Right Wing Scrape,
7 = Aux1 Scrape,
8 = Aux2 Scrape,
9 = Tail Scrape.
15 (0) Airspeed Limit This is the speed at which landing gear extension becomes inhibited (knots). Not used for scrape points or non-retractable gear.
16 (200) Damage from Airspeed The speed above which the landing gear accrues damage (knots). Not used for scrape points or non-retractable gear. Each contact point's data set takes the form “point.n=”, where “n” is the index to the particular point, followed by the data.
Property
Description
Examples
point.0
to
point.n Contact points that match the format described above. Airbus A321( point.0=1, 40.00, 0.00, -8.40, 1181.1, 0, 1.442, 55.92, 0.6, 2.5, 0.9, 4.0, 4.0, 0, 220.0, 250.0 )
Aircreation582SL( point.0= 1.000, 2.583, 0.000, -1.000, 1574.803, 0.000, 0.504, 31.860, 0.235, 2.500, 0.731, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000 ) Beech Baron 58( point.0 = 1, 0.82, 0.00, -3.77, 1600, 0, 0.633, 40, 0.42, 4.0, 0.90, 3.0, 3.0, 0, 152, 180 )
Boeing 747-400( point.0 = 1, -25.0, 0.0, -17.5, 1000.0, 0, 2.0, 70.0, 0.5, 3.5, 0.900, 9.0, 8.0, 0, 220, 250 )
Boeing 747-400( point.1 = 1, -114.0, -18.0, -21.3, 2000.0, 1, 2.0, 13.0, 3.0, 2.5, 0.900, 11.0, 9.0, 2, 220, 250 )
Boeing 747-400( point.2 = 1, -114.0, 18.0, -21.3, 2000.0, 2, 2.0, 13.0, 3.0, 2.5, 0.900, 11.0, 9.0, 3, 220, 250 )
Boeing 747-400( point.3 = 2, -152.6, -103.5, 3.0, 700.0, 0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.000, 0.0, 0.0, 5, 0, 0 )
Boeing 747-400( point.4 = 2, -152.6, 103.5, 3.0, 700.0, 0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.000, 0.0, 0.0, 6, 0, 0 )
Boeing 747-400( point.5 = 2, 3.0, 0.0, 0.0, 700.0, 0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.000, 0.0, 0.0, 9, 0, 0 )
Boeing 747-400( point.6 = 2, -222.7, 0.0, 4.0, 700.0, 0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.000, 0.0, 0.0, 4, 0, 0 )
max_number_of_points Integer value indicating the maximum number of contact points the program will look for. Airbus A321( max_number_of_points = 21 )
static_pitch The static pitch of the aircraft when at rest on the ground (degrees). The program uses this value to position the aircraft at startup, in slew, and at any other time when the simulation is not actively running. Airbus A321( static_pitch=0.04 )
Aircreation582SL( static_pitch= 0.000 )
Boeing 747-400( static_pitch = -1.5 )
Beech Baron 58( static_pitch = 1.56 )
static_cg_height The static height of the aircraft when at rest on the ground (feet). The program uses this value to position the aircraft at startup, in slew, and at any other time when the simulation is not actively running. Airbus A321( static_cg_height=7.67 )
Aircreation582SL( static_cg_height= 1.000 )
Boeing 747-400( static_cg_height = 18.6 )
Beech Baron 58( static_cg_height = 3.43 )
gear_system_type This parameter defines the system type which drives the gear extension and retraction.
0 = electrical
1 = hydraulic
2 = pneumatic
3 = manual
4 = none Airbus A321( gear_system_type=1 )
Beech Baron 58( gear_system_type=0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( gear_system_type=3 )
emergency_extension_type One of:
None=0,Pump=1,Gravity=2. Bombardier CRJ 700( emergency_extension_type=2 )
tailwheel_lock Boolean defining if a tailwheel lock is available (applicable only on tailwheel airplanes). Douglas DC-3( tailwheel_lock = 1 )
[gear_warning_system]
The following parameters define the functionality of the aircraft’s gear warning system. This is generally a function of the throttle lever position and the flap deflection.
Property
Description
Examples
gear_warning_available Sets the type of gear warning system available on the aircraft, one of:
0 = None, 1 = Normal, 2 = Amphibian (audible alert for water vs. land setting). Airbus A321( gear_warning_available = 1 )
pct_throttle_limit The throttle limit, below which the gear warning will activate if the gear is not down and locked while the flaps are deflected to at least the setting for flap_limit_idle below. This flap limit can be 0 so that the warning effectively is a function of the throttle. A value between: 0 (idle) and 1.0 (Max throttle). Airbus A321( pct_throttle_limit = 0.1 )
flap_limit_idle In conjunction with the throttle limit specified above, this limit is the flap deflection, above which the warning will activate if the gear is not down and locked while the throttle is below the limit specified above. By setting this limit to a value greater than zero, the pilot can reduce the throttle to idle without activating the warning. This is often utilized in jets to decelerate/descend the aircraft. Airbus A321( flap_limit_idle = 5.0 )
Beech Baron 58( flap_limit_idle = 0.0 )
Beech King Air 350( flap_limit_idle = 15.0 )
flap_limit_power The flap limit, above which the warning will activate (regardless of throttle position). Airbus A321( flap_limit_power = 25.5 )
Beech Baron 58( flap_limit_power = 31.5 )
Beech King Air 350( flap_limit_power = 30.0 )
Douglas DC-3( flap_limit_power = 16.0 )
[brakes]
The following parameters define the aircraft's braking system:
Property
Description
Examples
parking_brake Boolean setting if a parking brake is available on the aircraft. Airbus A321( parking_brake = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( parking_brake=1 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( parking_brake = 0 )
toe_brakes_scale Sets the scaling of the braking effectiveness. 1.0 is the default. 0.0 scales the brakes to no effectiveness. Airbus A321( toe_brakes_scale = 0.885 )
Aircreation582SL( toe_brakes_scale=1.000031 )
Boeing 747-400( toe_brakes_scale = 1.24 )
Beech Baron 58( toe_brakes_scale = 1.0 )
auto_brakes The number of increments that the auto-braking switch can be turned to. Airbus A321( auto_brakes = 3 )
Boeing 737-800( auto_brakes = 4 )
Beech Baron 58( auto_brakes = 0 )
hydraulic_system_scalar The ratio of hydraulic system pressure to maximum brake hydraulic pressure. Airbus A321( hydraulic_system_scalar = 1 )
differential_braking_scale Differential braking is a function of the normal both brakes on and the rudder pedal input. The amount of difference between the left and right brake is scaled by this value. 1.0 is the normal setting if differential braking is desired (particularly on tailwheel airplanes). 0.0 is the setting if no differential braking is desired. Douglas DC-3( differential_braking_scale = 1.0 )
[hydraulic_system]
The following parameters define the aircraft's hydraulic system:
Property
Description
Examples
normal_pressure The normal operating pressure of the hydraulic system, in pounds per square inch. Airbus A321( normal_pressure = 3000.0 )
Aircreation582SL( normal_pressure=0.000000 )
Beech Baron 58( normal_pressure = 0.0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( normal_pressure = 1000.0 )
electric_pumps The number of electric hydraulic pumps the aircraft is configured with. Airbus A321( electric_pumps = 0 )
Boeing 737-800( electric_pumps = 1 )
engine_map This series of flags sets whether the corresponding engines of the aircraft are configured with hydraulic pumps. The flags correspond in order of the engines, starting with the left-most engine first and moving right. By default, all engines are equipped to drive a hydraulic pump. Airbus A321( engine_map = 1,1,0,0 )
Boeing 747-400( engine_map = 1,1,1,1 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( engine_map = 1,0,0,0 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( engine_map = 1 )
[views]
The following parameter define the pilot's viewpoint.
Property
Description
Examples
eyepoint Position relative to datum reference point. Airbus A321( eyepoint=48.2, -1.35, 1.7 )
Aircreation582SL( eyepoint=-0.205052,0.000000,3.604314 )
Boeing 747-400( eyepoint = -18.55, -1.97, 10.7 )
Beech Baron 58( eyepoint = -8.213, -0.8612, 2.220 )
zoom Zoom the view in or out from the viewpoint. Default( zoom=1.0 )
[flaps.n]
For each flap set that is on the aircraft, a corresponding [flaps.n] section should exist. Most general aviation aircraft and smaller jets only have one set of flaps (trailing edge), but it is typical for the larger commercial aircraft to have a set of leading edge flaps in addition to the trailing edge flaps. The number of flap sets are determined by the number of [flaps.n] sections contained in the aircraft.cfg file.
Property
Description
Examples
type Integer value that indicates if this is a leading edge or trailing edge flap set:
0 = no flaps 1 = trailing edge, 2 = leading edge. Airbus A321( type = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( type=0 )
Boeing 737-800( type = 2 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( type=1 )
span-outboard The percentage of half-wing span the flap extends to (from the wing-fuselage intersection). Airbus A321( span-outboard = 0.8 )
Aircreation582SL( span-outboard=0.500000 )
Beech Baron 58( span-outboard = 0.41 )
Beech King Air 350( span-outboard = 0.5 )
extending-time Time it takes for the flap set to extend to the fullest deflection angle specified (seconds). Airbus A321( extending-time = 20 )
Aircreation582SL( extending-time=0.000000 )
Boeing 737-800( extending-time = 2 )
Boeing 747-400( extending-time = 25 )
flaps-position.0
to
flaps-position.n Each element of the flaps-position array indicates the deflection angle to which the flaps will deflect (in degrees). The largest deflection angle will be the one used for full flap deflection. Cessna Grand Caravan( flaps-position.0= 0 )
Sailplane( flaps-position.0 = -9.0 )
Maule M7 260C( flaps-position.0 = -7 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.0 = 0 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.1 = 1 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.2 = 2)
Airbus A321( flaps-position.3 = 5 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.4 = 10 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.5 = 15 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.6 = 25 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.7 = 30 )
Airbus A321( flaps-position.8 = 40 )
damaging-speed Speed at which the flaps begin to accrue damage (Knots Indicated Airspeed, KIAS). Airbus A321( damaging-speed = 250 )
Boeing 747-400( damaging-speed = 200 )
Beech Baron 58( damaging-speed = 152 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( damaging-speed = 120 )
blowout-speed Speed at which the flaps depart the aircraft (Knots Indicated Airspeed, KIAS). Airbus A321( blowout-speed = 300 )
Boeing 747-400( blowout-speed = 250 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( blowout-speed = 150 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( blowout-speed = 175 )
lift_scalar The percentage of total lift due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection. Airbus A321( lift_scalar = 1.0 )
Boeing 747-400( lift_scalar = 0.7 )
drag_scalar The percentage of total drag due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection. Airbus A321( drag_scalar = 1.0 )
Boeing 747-400( drag_scalar = 0.9 )
pitch_scalar The percentage of total pitch due to flap deflection that this flap set is responsible for at full deflection. Airbus A321( pitch_scalar= 1.0 )
Boeing 747-400( pitch_scalar= 0.9 )
system_type Integer value that indicates what type of system drives the flaps to deflect:, one of:
0 = Electric
1 = Hydraulic
2 = Pneumatic
3 = Manual
4 = None Airbus A321( system_type = 1 )
Aircreation582SL( system_type=0 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( system_type = 0 )
Sailplane( system_type = 3 )
[radios]
There should be a radio section in each aircraft.cfg. This section configures the radios for each individual aircraft. Each of the following keywords has a flag or set of flags, that determine if the particular radio element is available in the aircraft. A “1” is used for true (or available), and 0 for false (or not available).
Property
Description
Examples
audio.1 Is there an audio panel, set to 1. Airbus A321( Audio.1 = 1 )
Sailplane( Audio.1 = 0 )
com.1 Two flags, set the first one to 1 if a Com1 radio is available, and the second if it supports a standby frequency. Airbus A321( Com.1 = 1, 1 )
Beech King Air 350( Com.1 = 1, 0 )
com.2 Two flags, set the first one to 1 if a Com2 radio is available, and the second if it supports a standby frequency. You cannot have Com2 without Com1. Airbus A321( Com.2 = 1, 1 )
Beech King Air 350( Com.2 = 1, 0 )
nav.1 Three flags, set the first to 1 if there is a Nav1 receiver, the second if it supports a standby frequency, and the third if it supports a glideslope indication. Airbus A321( Nav.1 = 1, 1, 1 )
Beech King Air 350( Nav.1 = 1, 0, 1 )
Sailplane( Nav.1 = 0, 0, 0 )
nav.2 Three flags, set the first to 1 if there is a Nav2 receiver, the second if it supports a standby frequency, and the third if it supports a glideslope indication. You cannot have Nav2 without Nav1. Airbus A321( Nav.2 = 1, 1, 0 )
Beech King Air 350( Nav.2 = 1, 0, 0 )
adf.1 If there is an ADF receiver, set to 1. Airbus A321( Adf.1 = 1 )
Sailplane( Adf.1 = 0 )
adf.2 If there is an ADF2 receiver, set to 1. Bombardier CRJ 700( Adf.2 = 1 )
transponder.1 If there is a transponder, set to 1. Airbus A321( Transponder.1 = 1 )
Sailplane( Transponder.1 = 0 )
marker.1 If there is a marker beacon receiver, set to 1. Airbus A321( Marker.1 = 1 )
Sailplane( Marker.1 = 0 )
[lights]
Each light that requires a special effect should be entered in this section. The following table gives the codes for the switches that will turn on the lights.
Code Switch
1 Beacon
2 Strobe
3 Navigation or Position
4 Cockpit
5 Landing
6 Taxi
7 Recognition
8 Wing
9 Logo
10 Cabin
Property
Description
Examples
light.0
to
light.n The first entry of the line defines which circuit, or switch, the light is connected to (see the code table above). Multiple lights may be connected to a single switch. The next three entries are the position relative to datum reference point. The final entry is the special effect file name that is triggered (for example, fx_navred). These files have .fx extensions and should be placed in the root effects folder. Airbus A321( light.0 = 3, -19.14, -47.24, 1.38, fx_navredm , )
Boeing 747-400( light.0 = 3, -150.30, -102.56, 3.22, fx_navredh , )
Beech Baron 58( light.0 = 3, -6.60, -19.29, 0.79, fx_navred , )
Beech King Air 350( light.0 = 3, 0.56, -28.41, 1.97, fx_navred , )
Beech King Air 350( light.1 = 3, 0.56, 28.41, 1.97, fx_navgre , )
Beech King Air 350( light.2 = 3, -31.20, 0.00, 9.09, fx_navwhi , )
Beech King Air 350( light.3 = 2, 0.89, -28.48, 1.87, fx_strobe , )
[keyboard_response]
The aircraft flight controls can be manipulated by the keyboard. Because flight controls naturally become more sensitive as airspeed increases, it can become quite difficult to control the aircraft via the keyboard at high speeds. To address this problem, the amount a single keypress increments a flight control is decreased by a factor of 1/2 at the first airspeed (in knots) listed on the line for the control, and to 1/8 at the second airspeed, and to a scale interpolated from these values for all airspeeds in between. The example below shows that an elevator will increment by one degree when the airspeed is zero, by ¾ of one degree at 50 knots, ½ of one degree at 100 knots, 5/16 of one degree at 140 knots, and 1/8 of one degree at 180 knots or greater speed.
Property
Description
Examples
elevator Two breakpoint speeds for keypress increments. Airbus A321( elevator = 150, 250 )
Aircreation582SL( elevator=150.000000,250.000000 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( elevator = 100, 180 )
Sailplane( elevator = 160, 360 )
aileron Two breakpoint speeds for keypress increments. Airbus A321( aileron = 150, 250 )
Aircreation582SL( aileron=150.000000,250.000000 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( aileron = 200, 1000 )
Sailplane( aileron = 160, 360 )
rudder Two breakpoint speeds for keypress increments. Airbus A321( rudder = 150, 250 )
Aircreation582SL( rudder=150.000000,250.000000 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( rudder = 200, 1000 )
Sailplane( rudder = 160, 360 )
[direction_indicators]
This section is used to define the characteristics of the direction indicators on the instrument panels, but does not include the magnetic compass (which has a separate section). The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0,1,2,…n.
Property
Description
Examples
direction_indicator.0
to
direction_indicator.n One or two codes. If the indicator is type 4, then there must be two entries here (the indicator, and the indicator to which this one is slaved). The indicator codes are:
0 = None
1 = Vacuum gyro
2 = Electric gyro
3 = Electro-mag slaved compass
4 = Slaved to another indicator Airbus A321( direction_indicator.0=3,0 )
Aircreation582SL( direction_indicator.0 = 0 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( direction_indicator.0=1,0 )
Sailplane( direction_indicator.0=0,0 )
Douglas DC-3( direction_indicator.1=2,0 )
induction_compass.0
to
induction_compass.n If there is an induction compass, one of:
1 = Electric
2 = Anemometer driven Ryan NYP( induction_compass.0=2 )
[attitude_indicators]
This section is used to define the characteristics of the attitude indicators on the instrument panels. The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0,1,2,...n.
Property
Description
Examples
attitude_indicator.0
to
attitude_indicator.n The system which drives the attitude indicator. One of:
0 = none
1 = Vacuum driven gyro
2 = Electrically driven gyro Airbus A321( attitude_indicator.0 = 2 )
Aircreation582SL( attitude_indicator.0=1 )
Beech Baron 58( attitude_indicator.0 = 1 )
Sailplane( attitude_indicator.0 = 0 )
Boeing 747-400( attitude_indicator.1 = 1 )
Douglas DC-3( attitude_indicator.1 = 2 )
[altimeters]
Property
Description
Examples
altimeter.0
to
altimeter.n If the parameter is set to 1, a separate altimeter is instantiated, which will operate independently of other altimeters, and can have failures applied to it. Airbus A321 Paint2( altimeter.0=1 )
Learjet 45( altimeter.0 = 1 )
Airbus A321 Paint2( altimeter.1=1 )
Learjet 45( altimeter.1 = 1 )
[turn_indicators]
This section is used to define the characteristics of the turn indicators on the instrument panels. The list of indicators should be listed in order: 0,1,2,…n.
Property
Description
Examples
turn_indicator.0 Two code values, which define the system on which the turn indicators are dependant. The first value is for turn, the second for bank. The codes are:
0 = None
1 = Electrically driven gyro
2 = Vacuum driven gyro Airbus A321( turn_indicator.0=0,0 )
Aircreation582SL( turn_indicator.0=1,0 )
Beech Baron 58( turn_indicator.0=1,1 )
DeHavilland Beaver DHC2( turn_indicator.0=1 )
[vacuum_system]
The following parameters define the aircraft's vacuum system:
Property
Description
Examples
max_pressure Maximum pressure in psi. Airbus A321( max_pressure=5.15 )
Aircreation582SL( max_pressure=5.000000 )
Boeing 747-400( max_pressure=5.150000 )
Sailplane( max_pressure=0 )
vacuum_type Vacuum type, one of:
0 = None
1 = Engine pump (default)
2 = Pneumatic
3 = Venturi. Airbus A321( vacuum_type=2 )
Aircreation582SL( vacuum_type=1 )
Sailplane( vacuum_type=0 )
electric_backup_pressure Backup pressure in psi. Aircreation582SL( electric_backup_pressure=0.000000 )
Beech Baron 58( electric_backup_pressure=4.900000 )
Mooney Bravo( electric_backup_pressure=4.9 )
Bell 206B JetRanger( electric_backup_pressure=5.15 )
engine_map This series of flags sets whether the corresponding engines of the aircraft are configured with vacuum systems. The flags correspond in order of the engines, starting with the left-most engine first and moving right. Beech Baron 58( engine_map=1,1 )
Cessna Skyhawk 172SP( engine_map=1 )
[pneumatic_system]
The following parameters define the aircraft's pneumatic pressure system:
Property
Description
Examples
max_pressure The maximum pressure of the pneumatic system. Airbus A321( max_pressure=18.000000 )
Aircreation582SL( max_pressure=0.000000 )
Grumman Goose G21A( max_pressure = 21.5 )
Piper Cub( max_pressure=0 )
bleed_air_scalar The ratio of bleed-air pressure from the engines to pneumatic air pressure in the pneumatic system. Airbus A321( bleed_air_scalar=1.000000 )
Aircreation582SL( bleed_air_scalar=0.000000 )
Beech Baron 58( bleed_air_scalar=0.00000 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( bleed_air_scalar=0.150000 )
[exits]
The following parameters define the aircraft's exits:
Property
Description
Examples
number_of_exits This value defines the number of simulated exits, or doors, on the aircraft. Airbus A321( number_of_exits = 3 )
Aircreation582SL( number_of_exits =1 )
Beech Baron 58( number_of_exits = 1 )
Cessna Grand Caravan( number_of_exits = 2 )
exit.0
to
exit.n Five values: the open and close rate percent per second (where 1.0 is fully open), the position relative to datum reference point, and the type of exit, one of:
0 = Main
1 = Cargo
2 = Emergency Airbus A321( exit.0 = 0.4, 40.50,-6.0, 7.0, 0 )
Boeing 737-800( exit.0 = 0.4, 41.3, -6.0, 4.0, 0 )
Boeing 747-400( exit.0 = 0.4, -30.30, -9.5, 1, 0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( exit.0 = 0.4, -16.50, -4.5, 0.5, 0 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( exit.1 = 0.4, -74.00, -4.5, 0.5, 1 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( exit.2 = 0.4, -36.50, -2.5, -1.0, 1 )
[effects]
The effects section of the file refers to the visual effects that result from various systems or reactions of the aircraft. An effect file associated with a keyword in this section will be used when the corresponding action is triggered. If no entry is made a default effect file will be used. The table below outlines the aircraft effects currently supported, though of course not all effects are supported on all aircraft.
Each entry can be followed by a 1 if the effect is to be run for a single iteration. Set this number to zero or leave blank (the default), for the effect to continue as long as the respective action is active. Make an entry in the configuration file to replace any of these effects with a new one. Or to turn off the effect add an entry that references the fx_dummy effect (which does nothing).
Property
Description
Default
Single Iteration
Examples
wake The wake effect name. fx_wake False Airbus A321( wake=fx_wake )
water The landing, taxiing or taking off from water effect. fx_spray False Airbus A321( water=fx_spray )
waterspeed Traveling at speed on the water. fx_spray False
dirt Moving on dirt. fx_tchdrt False Airbus A321( dirt=fx_tchdrt )
concrete Moving on concrete. fx_sparks False Airbus A321( concrete=fx_sparks )
Sailplane( concrete=fx_tchdwn_s )
touchdown The touchdown effect, which usually is followed by an optional 1 to indicate the effect is to be run once only. fx_tchdwn True Airbus A321( touchdown=fx_tchdwn, 1 )
Aircreation582SL( touchdown=fx_tchdwn_s, 1 )
contrail Contrail effect, applies to jets flying above 29000ft. fx_contrail_l False
startup Engine startup. fx_engstrt True Douglas DC-3( startup=fx_engstrt_jenny)
Piper Cub( startup=fx_engstrt_cub )
landrotorwash Rotor wash. Helicopters only. fx_rtr_lnd False
waterrotorwash Water rotor wash. Helicopters only. fx_rtr_wtr False
vaportrail_l Left wing vapor trail. fx_vaportrail_l False
vaportrail_r Right wing vapor trail. fx_vaportrail_r False
l_wingtipvortice Left wingtip vortice (contrails off the wingtip, usually from a jet such as the F18). fx_wingtipvortice_l True
r_wingtipvortice Right wingtip vortice. fx_wingtipvortice_r True
fueldump Fuel dump active. No default effect False
EngineFire Engine fire. fx_engfire False Bell 206B JetRanger( EngineFire=fx_heliFire )
EngineDamage Engine damage. fx_engsmoke False
EngineOilLeak Oil leak. fx_OilLeak False
SkidPavement Skid on tarmac, leaves a mark. fx_skidmark False
SnowSkiTrack Skid on snow. No default effect False Maule M7 260C Ski paint1( SnowTrack = fx_snowtrack )
WheelSnowSpray Taking off on snow. fx_WheelSnowSpray False Maule M7 260C Ski paint1( WheelSnowSpray = fx_WheelSnowSpray )
WheelWetSpray Taking off on wet runway. fx_WheelWetSpray False Maule M7 260C Ski paint1( WheelWetSpray = fx_WheelWetSpray )
WetEngineWash Similar to waterrotorwash, the effect a propeller has on wet terrain when flying below 20m. fx_WetEngineWash False
SnowEngineWash Similar to waterrotorwash, the effect a propeller has on snow covered terrain, or when it is snowing, when flying below 20m. fx_SnowEngineWash False
WaterBallastDrain Draining the water ballast, applies only to sailplanes. fx_WaterBallastDrain False
PistonFailure One or more pistons failed. fx_PistonFailure True
windshield_rain_effect_available Special case, set this to 0 to turn off the effect of rain on the windshield. Curtiss Jenny( windshield_rain_effect_available = 0 )
[autopilot]
The following parameters determine the functionality of the aircraft’s autopilot system, including the flight director.
Navigation Modes:
The navigation and glideslope controllers utilize standard proportional/integral /derivative feedback controllers (PID). The integrator and derivative controllers have boundaries, which are the maximum error from the controlled parameter in which these are active. It is not necessary to have all three components active. Setting the respective control constant to 0 effectively disables that component, allowing PI or PD controllers to be utilized. Navigation mode parameters begin with nav_ or gs_.
Property
Description
Examples
autopilot_available Setting this flag to a 1 makes available an autopilot system on the aircraft. Airbus A321( autopilot_available=1 )
Aircreation582SL( autopilot_available=0 )
flight_director_available Setting this flag to a 1 makes available a flight director on the aircraft. Airbus A321( flight_director_available=1 )
Aircreation582SL( flight_director_available=0 )
default_vertical_speed The default vertical speed, in feet per second, that the autopilot will command when selecting a large altitude change. Airbus A321( default_vertical_speed=1800 )
Boeing 747-400( default_vertical_speed = 1800.0 )
Beech Baron 58( default_vertical_speed= 700.0 )
Beech King Air 350( default_vertical_speed= 1800.0 )
autothrottle_available Setting this flag to a 1 makes available an autothrottle system on the aircraft. Boeing 747-400( autothrottle_available = 1 )
Beech Baron 58( autothrottle_available= 0 )
autothrottle_arming_required Setting this flag to 1 will require that the autothrottle be armed prior to it being engaged. Setting it to zero allows the autothrottle to be engaged directly. Boeing 747-400( autothrottle_arming_required = 1 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( autothrottle_arming_required= 0 )
autothrottle_max_rpm This sets the maximum engine speed, in percent, that the autothrottle will attempt to maintain. Airbus A321( autothrottle_max_rpm = 90 )
Boeing 747-400( autothrottle_max_rpm = 90 )
autothrottle_takeoff_ga Setting this flag to 1 enables takeoff / go-around operations with the autothrottle. Boeing 747-400( autothrottle_takeoff_ga = 1 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( autothrottle_takeoff_ga= 0 )
default_pitch_mode This determines the default pitch mode when the autopilot logic is turned on.
0 = None
1 = Pitch Hold (current pitch angle)
2 = Altitude Hold (current altitude)
If no value is set, Pitch Hold will be the default.
pitch_takeoff_ga The default pitch that the Takeoff/Go-Around mode references. Beech Baron 58( pitch_takeoff_ga=8.0 )
Douglas DC-3( pitch_takeoff_ga=0.0 )
max_pitch The maximum pitch angle in degrees that the autopilot will command either up or down. Airbus A321( max_pitch=10.0 )
max_pitch_acceleration The maximum angular pitch acceleration, in degrees per second squared, that the autopilot will command up or down. Airbus A321( max_pitch_acceleration=1.0 )
max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt The maximum angular pitch velocity, in degrees per second, which the autopilot will command when at an altitude below that specified by the variable max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt_breakpoint. Airbus A321( max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt=2.0 )
max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt The maximum angular pitch velocity, in degrees per second, which the autopilot will command when at an altitude above the altitude specified by the variable max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt_breakpoint. The maximum velocity is interpolated between the hi and lo altitude velocities when between the hi and lo altitude breakpoints. Airbus A321( max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt=1.5 )
max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt_breakpoint The altitude below which the autopilot maximum pitch velocity is limited by the variable max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt. Airbus A321( max_pitch_velocity_lo_alt_breakpoint=20000.0 )
max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt_breakpoint The altitude above which the autopilot maximum pitch velocity is limited by the variable max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt. The maximum velocity is interpolated between the hi and lo altitude velocities when between the hi and lo altitude breakpoints. Airbus A321( max_pitch_velocity_hi_alt_breakpoint=28000.0 )
max_bank The maximum bank angle in degrees that the autopilot will command either left or right.
Airbus A321( max_bank=25.0 )
Boeing 737-800( max_bank=30,25,20,15,10 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( max_bank=30,15 )
Douglas DC-3( max_bank=25.000000 )
max_bank_acceleration The maximum angular bank acceleration, in degrees per second squared, that the autopilot will command left or right. Airbus A321( max_bank_acceleration=1.8 )
max_bank_velocity The maximum angular bank velocity, in degrees per second, which the autopilot will command left or right. Douglas DC-3( max_bank_velocity=3.000000 )
max_throttle_rate This value sets the maximum rate at which the autothrottle will move the throttle position. In the example, the maximum rate is set to 10% of the total throttle range per second. Douglas DC-3( max_throttle_rate=0.100000 )
nav_proportional_control Proportional controller constant in lateral navigation modes. Airbus A321( nav_proportional_control=12.00 )
Boeing 747-400( nav_proportional_control=16.00 )
Beech Baron 58( nav_proportional_control=9.00 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( nav_proportional_control=11.00 )
nav_integrator_control Integral controller constant in lateral navigation modes. Airbus A321( nav_integrator_control=0.25 )
Boeing 747-400( nav_integrator_control=0.17 )
Bombardier CRJ 700( nav_integrator_control=0.20 )
Douglas DC-3( nav_integrator_control=0.250000 )
nav_derivative_control Derivative controller constant in lateral navigation modes. Airbus A321( nav_derivative_control=0.00 )
Douglas DC-3( nav_derivative_control=0.000000 )
nav_integrator_boundary The boundary, or maximum signal error, in degrees in which the integrator function is active. In the example, the integrator is active when the error is between -2.5 and +2.5 degrees from the centerline of the navigation signal. Airbus A321( nav_integrator_boundary=2.50 )
nav_derivative_boundary The boundary, or maximum signal error, in degrees in which the derivative function is active. In the example, the derivative controller is not active because the maximum error is set to 0. Airbus A321( nav_derivative_boundary=0.00 )
gs_proportional_control Proportional controller constant in glideslope mode. Airbus A321( gs_proportional_control=25.0 )
Boeing 747-400( gs_proportional_control = 18.0 )
Beech Baron 58( gs_proportional_control=9.52 )
Douglas DC-3( gs_proportional_control=9.520000 )
gs_integrator_control Integral controller constant in glideslope mode. Airbus A321( gs_integrator_control=0.53 )
Boeing 747-400( gs_integrator_control = 0.33 )
Beech Baron 58( gs_integrator_control=0.26 )
Douglas DC-3( gs_integrator_control=0.260000 )
gs_derivative_control Derivative controller constant in glideslope mode. Boeing 747-400( gs_derivative_control = 0.00 )
gs_integrator_boundary The boundary, or maximum signal error, in degrees in which the glideslope integrator function is active. In the example, the integrator is active when the error is between -0.7 and +0.7 degrees from the centerline of the glideslope signal. Boeing 747-400( gs_integrator_boundary = 0.70 )
gs_derivative_boundary The boundary, or maximum signal error, in degrees in which the derivative function is active. In the example, the derivative controller is not active because the maximum error is set to 0. Boeing 747-400( gs_derivative_boundary = 0.00 )
yaw_damper_gain The proportional gain on the yaw dampers yaw rate error. Airbus A321( yaw_damper_gain = 1.0 )
Beech Baron 58( yaw_damper_gain = 0.0 )
direction_indicator Indicates which direction indicator system on the aircraft is being referenced by the autopilot.
0 = the first, and is the default. Douglas DC-3( direction_indicator=1 )
attitude_indicator Indicates which attitude indicator system on the aircraft is being referenced by the autopilot.
0 = the first, and is the default. Douglas DC-3( attitude_indicator =1 )
default_bank_mode This determines the default bank mode when the autopilot logic is turned on.
0 = None
1 = Wing Level Hold
2 = Heading Hold (current heading).
If no value is set, Wing Level Hold will be the default. Douglas DC-3( default_bank_mode=2 )
Miscellaneous default AP modes:
The following flags are legacy, and were enabled to allow aircraft to be configured with no pitch and/or bank modes. While these flags are still supported, the preferred flags are included above in the respective vertical and lateral sections.
Property Description Examples
use_no_default_pitch Setting this flag to 1 will cause the default pitch mode to be "None". It will actually set the variable default_pitch_mode to zero, so that there is no default pitch mode when the autopilot logic is activated.
The preferred method is to tset the default_pitch_mode directly.
use_no_default_bank Setting this flag to 1 will cause the default bank mode to be "None". It will actually set the variable default_bank_mode to zero, so that there is no default bank mode when the autopilot logic is activated.
The preferred method is to tset the default_bank_mode directly. See examples for default_bank_mode
[fuel]
This section defines the characteristics of the fuel system, including the tanks, fuel type, and the number of fuel selectors. The number of fuel selectors is intended to match the number of visual selectors on the instrument panel.
Property
Description
Examples
center1
center2
center3
leftmain
leftaux
lefttip
rightmain
rightaux
righttip
external1
Comment