Including Default Aircraft like DC-3 and F-18 in FSX AI Traffic

I understand your curiosity about seeing some of the default aircraft, like the DC-3 and F-18, appearing as AI traffic in FSX: Steam Edition. It's an interesting aspect of the simulator that isn't immediately apparent. Let me explain why these aircraft don't show up by default and how you can get them flying in your virtual skies.

Why Default Aircraft Don't Appear as AI Traffic

The AI traffic in FSX is governed by predefined flight plans and specific AI aircraft models. While it might seem that AI traffic uses aircraft from your inventory, not all default aircraft are included. Here's why:

• Flight Plans Exclusion: The default AI flight plans primarily feature commercial airliners and general aviation aircraft. Military jets like the F-18 and vintage planes such as the DC-3 aren't part of these schedules.
• AI Model Optimization: AI aircraft models are simplified to reduce the impact on system performance. Using the high-detail flyable aircraft models for AI can cause performance issues.
• Aircraft Configuration: Not all default aircraft are configured for AI use. They might lack the necessary settings in their aircraft configuration files to function properly as AI traffic.

How to Include Default Aircraft in AI Traffic

To see these aircraft in your AI traffic, you'll need to create custom AI flight plans that incorporate them. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1: Use AI Flight Planning Software

You'll need a tool like AI Flight Planner, which is a free utility that allows you to create and edit AI flight plans.

Step 2: Create Custom Flight Plans

1. Install AI Flight Planner and launch the program.
2. Set Your FSX Installation Path so the software can access your aircraft and scenery data.
3. Create a New Flight Plan by selecting the aircraft you wish to add:
   • Aircraft Selection: Choose the DC-3, F-18, or any other aircraft you'd like to see as AI traffic.
   • Define Flight Schedules: Set the departure and arrival airports, along with the days and times of operation.
   • Set Flight Parameters: Assign flight numbers, cruising altitudes, and speeds.
4. Compile the Flight Plan into a traffic BGL file.
5. Place the BGL File into the Scenery\World\Scenery folder within your FSX directory.

Considerations and Tips

• Performance Impact: Using complex aircraft models for AI can affect performance. Consider reducing graphics settings or the number of AI flights if you notice issues.
• AI Compatibility: Ensure the aircraft are configured for AI use. You might need to modify the .air and aircraft.cfg files to enable AI functionality.
• Glider Limitations: The default glider isn't suitable for AI traffic, as gliders require thermals and are not powered. AI traffic won't handle them correctly.

Example Flight Plan

Here's an example of a simple flight plan for the DC-3:

• Aircraft: Douglas DC-3
• Flight Number: DC301
• Departure Airport: KSEA (Seattle-Tacoma International Airport)
• Arrival Airport: KSFO (San Francisco International Airport)
• Days of Operation: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
• Departure Time: 09:00 AM
• Cruising Altitude: 12,000 ft

Additional Resources

For more detailed instructions, you can refer to tutorials on creating AI traffic with AI Flight Planner. This tool is incredibly versatile and can enhance your FSX experience significantly.

Final Thoughts

By creating custom AI flight plans, you can bring your favorite default aircraft into the AI traffic system, enriching your simulator environment. It's a rewarding way to personalize your virtual skies and see a wider variety of aircraft in action.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Happy flying, and enjoy seeing those classic planes take to the air!