Hi Adlab
Adlab, read you tutorial "Repainting in FS2004" and found it very interesting. I'm still struggling though. Here's the problem. Best to describe it in sequence:
1. I import the PK into DXT.BMP
2. Import the 'ready made Alpha Channel onto the 'template'
3. View the image in the box top right and it clearly shows the alpha channels
4. Send it to GIMP
4. Do the paint work (getting better) Try to apply alpha channels (clearly doesn't work
5 Send it back to DXT...check the right hand top box...And it's all WHITE! The Alpha Channels on individual shapes have gone....
6. I progress and save the repaint usually as an Extended BMP (32-888) files..load the file into FSX...It looks OK...but the shine I want in the area I've worked on hasn't shown...

Sorry this is long, I've tried the GIMP Manual, and it's somewhat complicated..probably me that though Hope you can help...usually your answers are very clear.
Best wishes ZA