I'm pretty sure that for animating models such as ships landing, taking off etc you will need to use ROF files.
I have no real idea of how to implement these, but do a search on Raven's site and you should find the information you're looking for.
You can do a search for a file: SoF2_Animating_Objects.doc or alternatively:
www.kripzclan.co.uk/torchy/SoF2_Animating_Objects.doc)