About cargo management with the Super Cargomaster
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I wanted to ask how cargo management will be handled in the Super Cargomaster. Historically, this has been a neglected aspect across all the iterations of this workhorse. Typically, it only showcased a random number of packages—with very little variation among them—depending on the weight indicated in the cargo menu.
If we're indeed going to get a study-level version of our beloved Cargomaster, it would be fantastic to see serious attention given to cargo management this time around.
Recently, I've been searching for operation manuals from FedEx for the Caravan (unfortunately without any luck), but I came across this document listing possible packages and items that can be transported, such as pallets, drums, crates, and special cases:
https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/freight/resources/packing-guide.html
It would be amazing if an addon like this, which so authentically represents such an iconic cargo aircraft, could include some control over the type of cargo being transported. At the very least, it would be great to see a greater variety of cargo instead of just the typical boxes with the Xbox logo.
Even more impressive would be the addition of an option for hardcore cargo simmers to manage the positioning and tiedown of the cargo, even if it's only for aesthetic purposes. I recognize that the dynamics of cargo within the aircraft are likely beyond the capabilities of an addon like this one, but it would certainly enhance a lot the inmersion in this operational aspect.
I understand that development is in the final stages before the release, but I can't help but propose ideas. If the launch is successful and it's clear that there are many of us who have wanted a more realistic cargo simulation for years, it would be fantastic for these suggestions to be considered for potential expansions.
Regards
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You correctly estimate that feedback like this would have been more useful earlier in development, but better late than never
Currently, the tablet interface depicts the loading zones of the aircraft with their appropriate placement and maximums. As you increase these weights, pallets with large boxes appear in the hold (you can see an example in this screenshot) What you describe are some great ideas that I would love to implement. I think it's a little late to come up with the infrastructure to do this right now, but that doesn't mean I won't do it in the future. I get very excited when you describe micromanaging cargo loading, so I will be dedicating my "shower thoughts" to possible solutions, and will hopefully come up with something fun and elegant. Thanks for your thoughts! -
Might I point you in the direction of the fairly recently released GA-8 Airvan, by SWS, for some inspiration?
On the EFB, you can choose your type of cargo, how much of it, and where to place it as well.
Here I’ve chosen one generator (or whatever that machinery is), two levels of barrels, and four levels of boxes.
And this is what it looks like.
For me, just having something adds to the immersion, rather than just an empty plane. Same with passengers, I know some people don’t want “zombies” staring at them, but to me it’s worse with an empty cabin, where I have to pretend that someone is actually there.
