Sky Simulations has released version 3.1.0 of its McDonnell Douglas DC-9, series 21, 41 and 51, for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. The update covers the aircraft model, flight dynamics, systems and sounds, and the developer says it is now available at all retailers.
The DC-9 is a twin-engine, short-haul jet with rear-mounted engines and a T-tail. It first flew in the mid-1960s and went on to serve with many airlines on short and medium routes. The Series 21 was a short-field variant, while the Series 41 and 51 were stretched versions with more capacity. Sky Simulations covers all three in this package.
On the model side, the team says it redesigned the switch functionality to improve interaction and prevent problems for users in Legacy mode. The overhead panel backlighting has been fixed, and a new backlight effect is meant to give the cockpit a more vintage look. Other corrections include the left oil pressure reading, the CVR test function with a new texture, the SAT gauge readings, the fuel heat switch, and the tail de-ice light. The autopilot textures have been improved, and the air data pitot selector now works in both directions.
The developer also said that they optimised the flight dynamics to improve takeoff and climb performance. Engine power and flap drag were adjusted, and takeoff behaviour was changed to reduce lateral slip on the runway in crosswinds.
The system changes include a new fuel heating system and an emergency power test function. Fixes cover the electrical and oil quantity readings, APU air and airflow on the ground, and fuel levers that showed the “on” position in Cold and Dark state. DME readings are now disabled in those two modes as well.
Sound work includes adjusted volume for the landing gear and some alarms, plus fixes for missing sounds from certain switches, the APU, the battery and the air conditioning. Some GPWS warnings were corrected, and a landing gear warning test was added.
The update is free of charge and is now available through respective retailers. If you’d like to purchase the DC-9 for MSFS 2024, you can do so through the Aerosoft store for around 55€.
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