6./ZG26_5tuka Posted July 24, 2015 Posted July 24, 2015 Belly landings aren't too bad if executed properly. Loo at the speed he touched down, it's probably put not more stress on the airframe than a hard landing with gear. Biggest concern would be the engine, though as jcomm implied it isn't a real (but still quite beautyfull) spit so replacements should be of no concern.
II/JG17_HerrMurf Posted July 24, 2015 Posted July 24, 2015 (edited) 80% Spitfire Mk 26. It's a very nice homebuilt. Agree with 5tuka; gonna need an engine overhaul, prop and a small amount of sheetmetal work. Excellent piloting on that one. Fortunate he had a heck of a headwind to play with. You can hear it in the recording too. It really cut down on his ground speed for approach and touchdown. Edited July 24, 2015 by [TBC]HerrMurf
AndyJWest Posted July 24, 2015 Posted July 24, 2015 (edited) The lack of underwing radiators/oil cooler probably made for a smoother landing than you might expect in a real Spit in the same situation. In fact I seem to recall reading that a wheels-up landing is arguably safer on a hard runway than on grass in a Spitfire, because on grass the radiators can dig in and cause a nose over. Edited July 24, 2015 by AndyJWest
Ace_Pilto Posted July 25, 2015 Posted July 25, 2015 Fugly and no loss I'd say it will be in the air again soon, after they give it a few whacks with a mallet in the hangar, wrap the worst bits up in gaffer tape and disembowel the flying club lawn mower for a new engine. Yep, she'll be good to go again. I don't know why anyone would want to fly a DIY Spitfire shaped ultralight. Asking for trouble. We had one go in just across from my place, pilot killed.
II/JG17_HerrMurf Posted July 25, 2015 Posted July 25, 2015 It is not an ultralight. Homebuilt from a kit, yes, but it is a V6 powered 220 mph aircraft with retracts and +6/-4g's.
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now