Learjet 45 Simulator Project

This is a test version of my 3M Center building plopped next to runway 34R at KSEA (Seattle). It needs a little tweaking, but so far it’s looking pretty good!

3M Center Test Scenery

So while I wait for more foam putty to finish up the shell, I have finally gotten around to starting the Saint Paul (KSTP) scenery enhancements I blogged about a long while back. To get my feet wet, I chose the 3M Center building east of KSTP. Since the building is a rather simple shape, I figured it would be a great first project. Also, at least back when I was flying 172s, we used it as a visual reference point for lining up in the pattern, so there’s some utility to it as well. Here is a screen capture of my first draft:

3M Center model for FSX

I’m making progress with the Learjet 45 Red Protoype repaint. Moving the textures from my PC laptop to my Macintosh graphics workstation and then back again is kind of a pain.  The most difficult part (and what I’m leaving for last) of the painting will be those sleek pinstripes that run down the fuselage. I have to remove the existing ones and make new ones in a different place. The quality of this screenshot leaves something to be desired, but I submit to you, another teaser.

Learjet 45 Prototype Repaint

I haven’t been able to find a Learjet 45 with the prototype red tail and logo, so I’ve decided to try making one myself. It turns out it’s not too difficult as long as you have the right software and a little knowledge about image editing.

This version will be available here for free when it is complete.

My first attempt at scenery will be the First Bank building downtown. The distinctive Art Deco era building with the unique red 1st sign has been around as long as I can remember.

So I’ve decide to add a scenery section to my blog. The Saint Paul / Minneapolis skylines are kind of dull in Fs2004. Since this will be my FBO location, and I’ve got graphics background, I figure I’d try to give the Twin Cities a little more life.

Stay tuned for more.