Freeware Friday - Highlights of Community Releases #1
Welcome to "Freeware Friday - Highlights of Community Releases" - your weekly spotlight on the most outstanding and innovative additions to the flight simulation community. Every Friday, we dive into the world of freeware, showcasing the most wanted and anticipated releases and updates of the week, or those add-ons, that have been highly in demand. Without further ado, let's dive right into our first edition!
CYSB - Sudbury
The CYSB Sudbury add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator features the Greater Sudbury Airport (CYSB) in Ontario, Canada and has been created by Community Creator MazerMart. This add-on includes detailed custom hangars and signs, including the terminal. The scenery package also suggests additional items for an enhanced experience, like MazerMart models and Windy Things. With nine operating mines, two mills, two smelters, and a nickel refinery, Sudbury is arguably the hard rock mining capital of the world. For more detailed information and to download the add-on, you can visit it here.
Boeing 707-320B/C/adv
This week we spotlight a nostalgic addition to the flight simulation world: The original Boeing 707 JetLiner. The Microsoft Flight Simulator X port of Charlotte210 features a default 747 cockpit, repainted to resemble the 707's, offering a blend of vintage charm with a modern touch. Note that this mod is a work in progress, with some known issues and dependencies - still it brings you a piece of history to Microsoft Flight Simulator. Download it here.
IRIS A-10 Thunderbolt II
The IRIS A-10A Thunderbolt II "Warthog Driver" for FSX has been adapted for Microsoft Flight Simulator by Aviator671 and is available as freeware. This adaptation includes two models, with and without weapons, and features like an openable canopy and formation lights. The exterior model is converted to GLTF format with new animations and effects. However, the cockpit remains partially functional and non-interactive. The mod is open for community improvements, and users are encouraged to create and share new liveries, with original FSX paintkit files included for assistance. Download it here.
NZTG - Tauranga Airport, New Zealand
Eventhough already released back in December 2023, this add-on has lately seen an update with further improvements. The Tauranga Airport mod created by CoolGunS features a redesigned airport with working AI and FSLTL traffic. Version 1.0 includes new taxiways, a terminal, and other details, while version 2.0.1 applies enhanced texturing and lighting, full rework of all textures, including all carparks, all aprons, all grass in and around the airfield, all lines and taxiways. Selected textures now merge into each other. Download it here.
YPKG Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport, Western Australia
Last but not least, CoolGunS' YPKG Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport mod for Microsoft Flight Simulator brings life to this Western Australian airport, a crucial point on the GA route from Perth to Alice Springs. Version 1.0 introduces the entire airport, designed for aircraft up to B787/A330 size, and includes operational instructions and a map. The latest update, Version 2.0, enhances the airport with improved texturing, lines, lighting, and corrected artifacts, reflecting over 150 hours of work using the SDK. The mod is focused on delivering a detailed yet framerate-friendly experience. Download here.
