Modern GPS is boring. The DC-8 uses an INS. You must input latitude/longitude coordinates for up to 9 waypoints. You align the system (which takes 8-10 minutes of real time). You then fly in "MODE SELECT." Pro tip for FSX: If you want to enjoy the scenery without the headache, use the Shift+Z coordinates to cheat, or install a simple GPS pop-up. But purists will tell you to learn the INS.
The most comprehensive and widely respected DC-8 for FSX is produced by Just Flight (in collaboration with Commercial Level Simulations).
Key Variants Available:
The DC-8 uses a tiller for nosewheel steering (usually mapped to a twist rudder or separate axis). On the takeoff roll: fsx dc8
The DC-8 does not have an APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) like modern planes. You need Ground Power or an Air Start cart to get the engines running.
Step 1: Power Up
Step 2: Fuel and Pneumatics
Step 3: Starting the Engines Note: You usually start Engines 2 and 3 first (the inboard engines).
Install World of AI (WOAI) or Ultimate Traffic Live with vintage schedules (circa 1975). Sit at KJFK (Old Idlewild) and watch a Pan Am DC-8-62 push back next to an Eastern L-1011.
If you search "FSX DC8" on popular forums like FlightSim.com or AVSIM, you will find hundreds of results. Quality varies wildly. Here is the definitive ranking of what you need. Modern GPS is boring
Do not let the "Freeware" label fool you. The HJG DC-8 panel and model set is legendary. For over a decade, HJG has provided meticulously researched models for FS2004 and FSX.
The DC-8 in FSX is not a fly-by-wire jet. Key handling notes: