How to Have Jetways Work with AI Aircraft in Prepar3D
Jetways are an essential part of the ground operations at airports, allowing passengers to easily embark and disembark from aircraft. In flight simulation software like Prepar3D, having working jetways with AI aircraft adds a realistic touch to the overall experience. However, it can be a bit tricky to get the jetways to work seamlessly with AI aircraft in Prepar3D. In this article, we will discuss how to set up and configure jetways to work with AI aircraft in Prepar3D.
1. Use an AI Traffic Add-on
The first and most important step in getting jetways to work with AI aircraft in Prepar3D is to use an AI traffic add-on that supports animated jetways. There are several payware and freeware AI traffic add-ons available that include custom jetway models and animations. Some popular options include Ultimate Traffic Live, MyTraffic, World of AI, and AIG. These add-ons come with comprehensive libraries of AI aircraft models and traffic schedules, and they also include support for animated jetways.
2. Install Custom Jetway Models
After installing an AI traffic add-on that supports animated jetways, you will need to make sure that the custom jetway models are installed and configured correctly. This typically involves copying the jetway models and associated files to the appropriate folders within Prepar3D’s directory structure. Most AI traffic add-ons provide detailed installation instructions, so be sure to follow them carefully.
3. Configure AI Traffic
Once the custom jetway models are installed, you will need to configure the AI traffic add-on to use these new jetway models. This usually involves editing configuration files or using a dedicated AI traffic management tool provided by the add-on. By specifying the custom jetway models for each airport in the traffic database, you can ensure that the AI aircraft will be assigned the correct jetways when they arrive at the gates.
4. Enable Jetway SimObjects
In Prepar3D, AI aircraft are represented by SimObjects, which are essentially placeholders for the aircraft model and associated animations. To enable jetways for AI aircraft, you will need to make sure that the jetway SimObjects are available in Prepar3D. This may involve copying specific SimObject files from the AI traffic add-on to the appropriate folder within Prepar3D, or using a tool provided by the add-on to automatically install the required files.
5. Test and Troubleshoot
After setting up and configuring the AI traffic add-on and jetway models, it is important to test the system to ensure that everything is working as intended. Load up a scenario at an airport with jetways, and observe the behavior of the AI aircraft as they arrive at the gates. Check to see if the jetways extend and connect to the aircraft, and ensure that the animations are smooth and realistic. If you encounter any issues, refer to the documentation provided with the AI traffic add-on for troubleshooting tips and instructions.
In conclusion, getting jetways to work with AI aircraft in Prepar3D involves installing a compatible AI traffic add-on, configuring custom jetway models, enabling jetway SimObjects, and thorough testing to ensure everything works seamlessly. While the process may vary depending on the AI traffic add-on used, following these general steps should help you achieve a realistic and immersive experience with working jetways in Prepar3D.
