Reviews (by Radoslav)

After installing the latest patch, I’ve noticed several major improvements. ​Finally, I can report that the issues with the autopilot failing to hold altitude on approach have been resolved. Bravo! The aircraft handled my challenging approaches to LYTV (Tivat) and LDDU (Dubrovnik) gracefully. To truly stress-test the airframe, I used a third-party turbulence add-on, and the flight model held up well. It also appears that engine tuning has been refined; the aircraft no longer feels unrealistically overpowered. These test flights were conducted using the DC-9-30 passenger variant. ​There are just a few things I would still love to see addressed: ​Spoiler Click-Spots: I couldn't find the manual click-spot for spoiler deployment, though assigned joystick buttons worked fine. ​Sound Package: The audio experience still feels a bit suboptimal and could use more depth. ​GPS Integration: Replacing the current unit with a more realistic GPS (like a GNS430/530) would vastly improve immersion for "VATSIM junkies." The current unit lacks crucial capabilities, such as displaying distance to waypoints or the ability to program SIDs. While an experienced flyer can manage using radio navigation and the Navigraph charts on the tablet, a robust GPS would be a game-changer. This patch is a big step in right direction for this addon.

As a longtime fan of SKYSIMULATIONS and their previous DC-9 addons, I was eagerly anticipating this latest release, and it did not disappoint in several areas. The aircraft is beautifully modeled, with high-quality textures that provide an almost photorealistic virtual cockpit, capturing that nostalgic, weathered look remarkably well. Entering the passenger cabin was a delightful surprise; it evoked fond memories of my childhood experiences on the DC-9. However, there are notable areas for improvement. The absence of a GPS system is a significant drawback, especially considering that many retrofitted DC-9s operated with GPS during the 1990s and early 2000s. While I can navigate using traditional methods, incorporating a GPS as a secondary navigation aid would greatly enhance the flying experience, especially for online platforms like VATSIM. The implementation of paperwork features is commendable, though I encountered a bug with overlapping click spots. Specifically, the controls for adjusting passenger numbers in the front cabin conflict with the cockpit crew adjustment. Additionally, the documentation provided is somewhat lacking in detail. While I am familiar with the DC-9 operations, many users may not be, and it would be beneficial to include more comprehensive guidance on startup procedures, hydraulic systems, cabin pressurization, and fuel management. I am happy to assist with relevant pages from the aircraft's operation manual if that would help. Startup procedures went smoothly, but I faced an issue when attempting to turn off the APU; the master switch would not move to the OFF position. Clarification on this would be appreciated. Moreover, the cockpit camera positioning could use some reorganization. Gaining a clear view of the steam gauges and operating them proved challenging, particularly when setting ADF frequencies and adjusting hydraulic pressure switches. An update to include more modern radios and a TCAS system would also be greatly welcomed. The takeoff was executed well, and manual flying felt manageable. While I cannot comment on the flight dynamics from a real pilot's perspective, the experience was satisfactory overall. The autopilot functioned adequately, though I encountered minor hiccups, such as an unintentional steep descent when adjusting the vertical speed. Maintaining altitude at FL220 required frequent corrections, and I noticed that the ALT HOLD button was unresponsive during my flight. On a positive note, the cockpit sounds are exceptional, capturing the essence of the DC-9 experience with realistic engine and cockpit sounds. My love for this aircraft may influence my perspective, but I genuinely believe this addon has the potential to become one of the best simulations of classic jets available, provided it undergoes further refinement. Consequently, I rate it 4 stars.

After receiving alternative installer with unique key I have managed to install this nice product. And here are the impressions: After purchasing this product you will have complete DC-9 line of planes (all series), which is not the case with the other product of this plane. It is not down to the core simulated plane but it's far from simple click and fly type of products. It looks and feels great and gives you decent complexity and depth of simulation. I'm not crazy for simulated abnormal operations and all I want from classical plane in my FS is to be able to fly it and enjoy it. That is exactly what SKY SIMULATION DC-9 series offered me. The main difference from previous version is updated VC with more details and it looks very nice with all those photo real textures. You'll be able to almost feel the smell of that old classical, steam gauge cockpit. :) Great job on the interior part. Every series of DC-9 have different VC and 2d panel simulated and that makes this product even more interesting. I didn't notice huge difference on outside model but it is correctly modeled and nicely textured. I love it, and the most important thing is that you'll be able to do your own repaints since SKY SIMULATIONS is offering you great layered paint kits for all their planes. Flight dynamics are greatly improved. I've tried DC-9-30 and 50 and in comparison it with previous version they feel more stable during climb and turns. Autopilot have nice old school slow response. Keep in mind that these are old ladies and you should think few steps ahead while flying them. I'm really a great DC-9 fan. I love this plane since it was the first aircraft I ever fly as a kid, therefore I must respect everything SKY SIMULATIONS have done creating all DC-9 line of aircraft, and they have done a great job. If you love steam gauges classic planes this is a great product for you and it offers much more than I have just say about it. The only thing I disliked about this product is installer problem I have and I hope this alternative one I've received from the author will become standard one in the future.

It so hard for me to say this since I was very satisfied with previous version of this plane, but this one is disappointment from the start. Not because the plane is badly simulated but because I wasn't able to install it at all. Installer was faulty and it became unresponsive every time I have tried to install this addon. I was trying to run it as administrator, to stop AVAST during installation but nothing seams to help. I'm even more disappointed because I still didn't receive any explanation from SKYsimulation support. Looking forward for an fixed installer.