I havent done the Spitfire, but the apache definitely shows you how to do part of what you are asking. If you download the finished movie you will see..
https://www.simplymaya.com/movie_page...html?tut_id=95
+++EDIT+++++ After reading your question again, I think it wont answer most of your questions.. The animation doesnt have clouds, atmosphere etc, its mainly rendered against a backdrop
Last edited by uberstonks; 29-06-2005 at 12:12 AM.