First start of the FREE Horizon Boeing 787-9 from Cold and Dark in Microsoft Flight Simulator

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the startup procedure of the Horizon Boeing 787-9 in Microsoft Flight Simulator. Designed for beginners and experienced sim pilots alike, this step-by-step guide aims to simplify the complex startup process, ensuring that you can get your aircraft ready for flight efficiently.

Step 1: Prepare the Cockpit

• Access the Electrical Panel
  • Press Control + 8 to open the overhead panel.
• Turn on the Battery
  • Locate the battery switch and turn it on.
• Activate External Power
  • If available, turn on external power.

Step 2: Initialize IRS and APU

• IRS Activation
  • Turn on both the left and right IRS systems.
• Start the APU
  • Rotate the APU knob to the start position; it will automatically revert to the "on" position.

Step 3: Set Up Emergency Lights

• Emergency Lights Configuration
  • Arm the emergency lights and ensure they are guarded.

Step 4: Program the Flight Management Computer

• Position Initialization
  • Access the flight management computer by pressing Control + 3.
  • Select "Position Initialization."
  • Use GPS to set the inertial position.
  • Enter your reference airport (e.g., EGSS for Stansted).
• Route Planning
  • Set your departure (EGSS) and destination (e.g., Edinburgh).
  • Input flight number (e.g., ABC 123).
  • Execute the changes.
  • Program your Standard Instrument Departure (SID) and Arrival route.

Step 5: Performance Initialization

• Set Cruise Altitude and Cost Index
  • Input cruise altitude (e.g., FL250).
  • Set cost index (e.g., 100).
• Zero Fuel Weight Calculation
  • Click to calculate the zero fuel weight.
• Reserve Fuel and Flaps Configuration
  • Enter reserve fuel amount (e.g., 5,000 lbs or kg).
  • Set flaps for takeoff (5°).

Step 6: Final Preparations

• Overhead Panel Adjustments
  • Turn on FD door power and window heat.
  • Set passenger signs to auto and configure the anti-ice section.
• Turn on External Lights
  • Activate navigation lights and beacon light.

Step 7: Engine Start

• Start the Right Engine
  • Press Control + 8 to access the starters.
  • Switch the right engine starter to "start."
  • Wait for N2 to reach 20%, then advance the fuel control lever to "run."
• Start the Left Engine
  • Repeat the same process for the left engine.

Step 8: Taxi and Takeoff Setup

• Configure Taxi Lights and Flaps
  • Turn on the taxi light.
  • Set flaps to 5° and release the parking brake.
• Final Checks Before Takeoff
  • Activate strobe and landing lights.
  • Set the transponder to TA mode.

Conclusion

You have now successfully started the Horizon Boeing 787-9 and prepared it for taxi and takeoff in Microsoft Flight Simulator. Remember to keep monitoring cabin temperatures and other systems during your flight. For further practice, consider running through checklists and familiarizing yourself with the aircraft's advanced features in future sessions. Happy flying!