Improved DC-3 Aero Model
by The Skunk Works

This is a first attempt to improved the flight model of the DC-3,
available in the FS Forum Aircraft/Adventure Library.  The visual
model is great, but as many people have commented, using the
Starship aero model is just not very accurate.

This aero model uses a modified experimental prop airplane.  I know
it is not a twin engine design to start with, but I believe that
the parameters can be modified sufficiently to make a passable
attempt at a DC-3.

Included are two files, DC3V1 and DC3V2.  The main difference is
the power and weight.  Both have about the same takeoff, climb and
landing characteristics, but the V2 cruises a little faster.  I
believe that 1000 HP is some type of 'boundary' in ASD; with 999 HP
the cruise speed is about 150Kt, with 1001 HP the cruise speed is
over 200.  

Approximate speeds:  rotate at 70, liftoff at 80, climb at 110 to
120 (with just a bit of the ground showing above the instrument
panel), cruise at 140(V1) or 190 (V2).  Approach speed is about 110
to 120, over the fence at 100, and touchdown at around 95.  I got
these numbers from several reference sources, and they approximate
the real thing.  

I increased the wingspan and slowed the aileron response to more
accurately reflect the more massive DC-3.  The power to weight
ratio is about right for a moderately loaded DC-3.  Please feel
free to change any parameters you want.  I believe that for other
twin engine aircraft, modifying the experimental prop will probably
be more accurate than the Starship, simply because the canard
characteristics so different.  We are very interested in feedback,
so try it out and let us know.