Plane and Pilot

JULY 1, 2025

A witness reported that they saw the airplane lift off from the runway and remain in ground effect until it crossed the departure end of the runway. The pilot applied right rudder in an attempt to correct this, resulting in a ground loop. He had no further memory of the event.

Density Altitude 54

Density Altitude Airplanes Runway Pilot 54

Pilot Institute

MARCH 29, 2024

Common mistakes include neglecting clearing turns, delaying stall recovery, and misusing the rudder. Drag : The aerodynamic force opposing the aircraft’s forward motion. This increases lift but comes at the cost of increased induced drag. Pilots must counteract the additional drag with more thrust to maintain altitude.

Lift 52

Lift Rudder Drag Checkride 52

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

Winging It Aside from the aforementioned desire for a greater aspect ratio for reduced drag, the one-piece Gweduck wing was developed for minimal weight, ease of construction and benign handling. Keeping drag corralled was emphasized as the Gweduck mission is foremost long-distance cruising. Maintenance room is generally very good.

Airplanes 77

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 77

Photographic Logbook

SEPTEMBER 22, 2024

Though renowned for its maneuverability, the Triplane struggled to pull away from the Camel, fighting against the fundamental drag of its triple tiered wings. ORA does not fly their pioneer era aircraft above the treetops, but the Pusher climbed out of ground effect and flew along the runway before setting back to the turf at the far end.

Airplanes 60

Airplanes Runway Pilot Aileron 60