Editing Airports In Fsx: A Comprehensive Guide

Microsoft Flight Simulator X (FSX) is a popular flight simulation game that allows players to experience the thrill of flying in a realistic environment. One of the key features of FSX is the ability to edit airport information, including radio communications, approach frequencies, and scenery files. While editing airport information can be a complex process, requiring tools like ADE and the SDK package, it allows players to customise their gaming experience and ensure that the airports in the simulation are up-to-date and accurate. In this article, we will explore the different methods and tools available for editing airports in FSX, as well as the potential benefits and challenges of this process.

Editing airport information without touching original files

You can edit airport information without touching the original files. It will be saved as an Add-On with a higher priority than the original airport's scenery file.

To do this, you can download ADE (Airport Design Editor) and the SDK (Software Development Kit). You will need the SDK to use the compiler/de-compiler utilities. One of the tools that Microsoft gave us in the SDK box version is a bgl compiler for the World and Airport FSdata (based on where the data is nesting). This does not break any EULA rules.

You can then open a stock airport, update the Comms, and delete any extra Approach frequencies. Save it for future editing, compile it into the default FSX:SE Add-On Scenery folder, and test it.

You will also need to look at the other nearby stock airports from the original airport file and edit their own frequencies to delete all references to the extra Approach frequency that you deleted.

Using ADE to edit airports

ADE is a tool that can be used to edit airports in FSX. It is important to note that ADE does not delete or alter a stock scenery file in any way. Instead, it follows the rules set by Microsoft, which enable designers to block certain parts of an airport and replace them with enhanced parts to make the airport look better, work better, and update to current dates.

To use ADE, you will first need to download it. It is important to note that ADE will not work without the SDK, so you will also need to download Prepar3D's v1.4 SDK package, which contains the two programs that ADE needs to function properly. Once you have downloaded both ADE and the SDK, you can open a stock airport, make your desired changes, and save your work.

When saving your work in ADE, it is important to note that you must compile the airport scenery into a bgl file and place it into an active scenery folder for the airport in question. This is different from other software, such as AFCAD, where saving a mod automatically updates the game.

Overall, ADE is a powerful tool that can help you edit and create airports in FSX. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully use ADE to make your desired changes to airports in FSX.

Using a .bgl compiler and decompiler

To edit airports in FSX, you can use a .bgl compiler and decompiler. This is one of the tools that Microsoft gave in the SDK box version. It is used for the World and Airport FSdata, depending on where the data is nesting.

The .bgl compiler and decompiler can be used to study what makes up a compiled bgl. All the decompiler developers have stated that their decompiler is an attempt to understand the file structure of scenery files.

It is important to note that ADE does not delete or alter a stock Scenery file. Instead, it follows the rules set by Microsoft, which enable designers to block certain parts of an airport and replace them with enhanced parts. This can be used to make the airport look better, work better, and update to current dates.

To use the .bgl compiler and decompiler, you will need the SDK. This is available in the Prepar3D's v1.4 SDK package, which includes the two programs that ADE needs to function properly.

Editing stock airports and their frequencies

Another way to edit stock airports and their frequencies is to use a .bgl compiler and decompiler, although it is important to check that this does not break the FSX EULA. One user reported that they were able to edit airport information by skimming the manual and figuring out the program. They saved their edits as an Add-On with a higher priority than the original airport's scenery file.

When editing the frequencies of a stock airport, it is important to consider the impact on nearby airports. For example, if you delete an extra Approach frequency for one airport, you may need to edit the frequencies of other nearby stock airports to delete all references to the deleted frequency.

It is also worth noting that there are disassemblers for BGL-files, which can be used to study the file structure of scenery files. This can be helpful for understanding how to edit airport information without breaking any rules or causing issues with the game.

Understanding the file structure of scenery files

The file structure of scenery files is an important aspect of editing airports in FSX. Scenery files contain information about the airport's layout, including the placement of buildings, runways, and other features. To edit an airport, you will need to understand the structure of these files and how to make changes without breaking the FSX EULA.

One tool that can be used to edit scenery files is the ADE (Airport Design Editor) program. ADE allows you to make changes to the airport's design, such as blocking certain parts of the airport and replacing them with enhanced parts. It is important to note that ADE does not delete or alter the stock scenery file; instead, it follows the rules set by Microsoft to ensure that designers do not break any EULA rules.

Another tool provided by Microsoft is the bgl compiler for the World and Airport FSData. This tool allows you to compile and decompile BGL files, which are used to store scenery data. By studying the structure of these files, you can understand how to make changes to the airport's scenery. It is important to note that compiling and decompiling BGL files may break the FSX EULA, so be sure to check before proceeding.

When editing an airport, it is important to consider the impact on nearby stock airports. For example, if you delete an approach frequency for one airport, you may need to edit the frequencies of other nearby airports to remove all references to the deleted approach. This ensures that the simulation remains consistent and accurate.

By understanding the file structure of scenery files and using the appropriate tools, you can effectively edit airports in FSX while adhering to the rules and regulations set by Microsoft.

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