Client Aircraft Visible even when no one in role

[CallsignPunch]

I would image it wouldn't be very difficult to at least put an option in the ME to have aircraft that are client slots show up in the mission even when no one occupies the slot.  It would add a lot to the realism and environment instead of having an empty ramp until people spawn in. Make it a menu option for those who want less system strain to keep it as is.

 

[Phoschek]

I love it and agree 100%. A ramp of even a half dozen aircraft waiting to go would help the immersion, especially as you said — it would prevent aircraft from suddenly popping up next to you when they’re suddenly occupied. 

[cfrag]

It's indeed something may here would like to see, and it has been requested. 

In the mean time, you can use the excellent SWAPR script by @Hardcard to tide you over.

[reece146]

There's a mod for that: SWAPR.

[CallsignPunch]

Thanks guys, I was unaware of the script.  Still hope ED makes it a regular thing.

[reece146]

SWAPR is fiddly... But it does work on the latest 2.7.7 build. My previously saved missions using SWAPR work fine.

[Northstar98]

+9999999

A 'visible before start' checkbox, similar to that found on ground starting AI aircraft set to late activation would be ideal. For me personally, it would be especially useful on aircraft carriers which leaves the deck quite barren.

On a slightly related note, what about an option for AI occupying unoccupied client aircraft, with the option to take over (this could be delayed so the AI takes over after a set amunt of time has elapsed, exactly the same way as uncontrolled aircraft with the perform command -> start advanced waypoint action).  

[upyr1]

I'd love to include an option where the AI takes control of the flight if a human doesn't claim it with in enough time.  I figure especially in a closed server you could then do the same misison co-op or head v head

[CallsignPunch]

ED, any thoughts?

[Baaz]

Be careful what you wish for.  With planes visible, they'll be subject to strafing and clog the airfield making it unusable by anyone in MP until a cleanup or server reset can be accomplished.  Don't get me wrong, I feel your pain when looking at an empty airfield when on servers made by people who don't give it much thought.

When I make a mission I try to have, at a minimum, 20% of the slots filled with static planes, personnel, and equipment.  The fewer the number of clients, the higher the number of statics.  At large airfields like Anderson or Nellis, I try to fill them with as many large bodies as I can; as they are visible from further away.

[CallsignPunch]

I see the issue here, I think a checkbox would be best.  Check the box to have the planes visible.  I do more squadron ops so I dont tend to have the issue of staffing my home base or the boat, but I see the issue for open MP PvP servers.