I apologise if this has been addressed earlier. I did do a search on this forum for this topic, but Avsim's search engine for some reason doesn't recognize the term "cargo" as being a proper search term ( ).

 

Anyway, I know the 737-700 has been converted by Boeing to a convertible version that allows it to be a cargo or passenger version. It adds the cargo door plus uses a beefed up landing gear and the wings from the BBJ version. I'm wondering if there is any chance that PMDG could consider an expansion pack for the 700C? Of course, the only thing that would likely have to be done is the interior (only ??) and the cargo door as I'm not sure the different wing is really obvious (it's got winglets) and the "beefed up" landing gear is structural only so there would be no visual changes AFAIK. This is an aircraft that would complement nicely the 747-400X (and any other 747's that are cargo configured) for those wishing to build a cargo VA/fleet.

 

I just thought I'd throw it out there, and again I apologise if it's been addressed before. Maybe it's time to revisit the idea anyway? Thanks very much!

 

Glenn Davy

Dont think there is any plans for a cargo version, BBJ version has a better chance but with 777 and 747 project cruising along doubt you will see any updates for ngx for a long time could be wrong but maybe pmdg can chime in.

There's a few changes that would be necessary to the VC and the exterior model for a cargo version, notably the fire suppression system, but also the doors, windows and the probes. The probes on a cargo version are relocated to the position they were in on earlier 737 variants because of the addition of a cargo door which necessitates their relocation.

 

Cargo versions have a G-resistant net barrier between the cargo deck and the flight deck to prevent cargo breaking loose and rolling forward, blocking the cockpit entrance/exit door, but although that would not have to be modeled since the PMDG NG does not go overboard with the interior modeling, if that cargo barrier fails, and the cockpit door gets blocked, the cargo versions also have a modified cockpit window; the pilot's DV window can be opened from the outside, so that emergency services can extract the crew if there is an accident, you can see how useful this is when examining the Schiphol 737 passenger variant crash, where emergency services could not extract the crew for some hours because the cockpit door was locked.

 

So there's quite a bit of work involved in making a cargo variant beyond merely changing the doors.

 

Al

Thanks for the reply guys. Al, if you don't already work for PMDG, you should with that level of knowledge . I see now that would be a fairly major project. Thanks much for the detailed reply. Hopefully it does happen someday but I can see where there would have to be a fair bit of demand first.

 

Thanks again very much. Have a good one!

 

Glenn Davy

As you state fair amount of demand, I would think with the 777 that will be very high on the wish list, would be on mine.

As you state fair amount of demand, I would think with the 777 that will be very high on the wish list, would be on mine.

:yahoo: On mine as well! (Obviously haha)

lol Nick :LMAO: