Wouldn't mind splurging out a bit of cash on a really decent panel/aircraft combo for FS2004. Feel the need for something in addition to the default a/c.What would you recommend? I haven't really been keeping up with things lately.Here's my wants:Completely compatible with FS2004Medium to heavy aircraft, e.g. 737, 767, etc. Would also consider MD-80 or similar.Excellent virtual cockpit (strong immersion factor)Good flight model and accurate soundsThe full whack of avionics including accurate FMC.Accurate external appearanceNot a total frame rate hogThanks in advance.Joe

IMHO there

Hi Uwe,Remember your name from a fair bit back. Good to see some of the old names still around.PMDG 737, did that used to be Dream Fleet? Sound like a definite for further investigation. I enjoy the big feel of the 737 without being too far removed from physical act of flying, e.g. 777 or 747.Let me ask you this. If we drop the FMC requirement, what would you recommend?Thanks,Joe

Don't know if you are into GA or not but FSD aircraft are excellent (Commander, Seneca, and the Cheyenne too, if you want a plane that requires more "think ahead" time). I have DreamFleet's C310 and it is nice too; but I haven't been able to fly it much yet.Still waiting on full upgrades for the SF260, C421, and Cardinal(s) too...

Hi Joe, PMDG is Precision Manuals Development Group. They originated with an addon aircraft operation manual for PS1, continued with Fly! and Fly! II Boeing addons and FS98 Boeing manuals. The B737NG is their first aircraft product for FS2004. http://www.precisionmanuals.com/PRODUCTS/airliners/737NG.htmDreamfleet is still around as well at www.dreamfleet2000.com Their B737 will be a new development, the release for FS2000 has reached the end of its production life (well, almost).Without the FMC requirement, I think you should decide between: PMDG

without a doubt the PMDG 737 with updates and the dreamfleet 310. The Cheyenne is not excellent but in my opinion not quite the quality of the two aircraft above.For freeware I would recommend the Aerocommander series and the Dash 7 series.

Thanks once again Uwe, that helps a lot. I will definately be spending time investigating these alternatives.Best regards,Joe

Hi,Yes, you could say that I am very much into GA. I got my PPL in June 2002 and have about 115hrs now. My previous flight was a milestone for me in the sense that it was my longest cross country to date, flying from Dallas to Galveston, TX and back in a C172-180. I'm having to lay off and focus on FS2004 for a couple of months now because of the cost of that trip!Thanks for the recommendations. I do spend quite a bit of time in FS2004 in the default 172SP. I actually use it to simulate trips I will be making for real. The ATC is not totally accurate, but pretty close and at least prepares you for what you can expect on a real trip. Helps a lot with the flight planning in fact.Beginning to feel like a kid in a candy store here. My main interest just now is to find a good medium heavy jet, but I'll definately have a look at your recommendations.Best regards,Joe

Yes, sounds like these two aircraft, PMDG 737 and DF 310 are definately worth considering.Thanks,Joe