The Aerocomp News Volume 4 Issue 1 Spring/Summer 2000 Two Customers Finish New 7’s CA 10XL on Floats Yahoo! - Finished. Finito. Done. Success. Mission Accomplished! here’s really nothing quite like the feeling of those first flights in your brand new, Tpersonally assembled, custom-built, airplane. Several Aerocomp customers have enjoyed that unique thrill recently. We’d like to introduce two that completed and flew their new turboprop airplanes this spring.

Dr. Ray Ireland, Alabama “First Place Finish” goes to the first customer to finish and fly a Comp Air 7. This was accomplished by Dr. Ray Ireland, of Alabama. Just about the time the factory began working on the prototype Walter 601-powered Comp Air 7, Dr. Ireland ordered a kit, which he originally intended to power with a piston heeee! Splish - splash, we’re engine. Once the factory’s turboprop-powered Comp Air 7 was finished, however, it Wtakin’ a bath. Aerocomp’s new only took Dr. Ireland one flight in the incredible Comp Air 7 to decide that he wanted s-t-r-e-t-c-h version of the Comp Air 10 one for himself. ...continued on page 2 (dubbed the “10XL”) is now on floats, ...and wow, is it fun!

This huge floatplane (32 feet 5 inches long; gross weight: 6000 lbs.) carries the largest set of SuperFloats ever built.

The Comp Air 10XL, like Aerocomp’s other products, is built from kits sold by the Merritt Island, FL company. The company specializes in manufacturing kits for modern all-composite airplanes. The Comp Air 10XL is the largest COMP AIR 7 Turboprop Photo Credit: Mr. Lou Furlong, Sr. member of the Aerocomp family of airplanes. It’s siblings include aircraft Comp Air 7T Specifications Dr. Ray Ireland washes his new CA7T ranging in size from 2 to 11 seats, powered by engines of 65 to 650 hp, and Wing Span 35 ft cruising at speeds from 70 to 275 mph. Wing Area 178 ft2 Comp Air 7T Airframe Kit All of Aerocomp’s kit-built airplanes may Height 8 ft only $49,995 US be fitted with either conventional, Length 29½ ft tricycle, or float landing gear. Seats 6 or 7 Inside This Issue Engine 657 eshp Walter Gross Weight 3770 to 4600 lbs. 1 Splish-splash! New Comp Air 10XL on Floats Empty Weight 2100 to 2550 lbs. 2 Two Customers Finish Comp Air 7 Turboprops Useful Load 1670 to 2050 lbs. VNE 257 mph IAS 3 Aerocomp's Exciting Business Opportunities 250 to 275 mph Cruise 4 Editorial: Amphibious Floats -The Best of Both Worlds? TAS (21,000 ft) Vso 55-65 mph IAS 5 Will Turbine Engines Soon Replace Piston Powerplants? 2 The Aerocomp News Ireland’s CA7 Mr. Tommy Rose’s CA7 Turboprop continued from Page 1 Mr. Tommy Rose, Mississippi ithin a couple weeks after Dr. Ireland finished his airplane, a second customer- So how does Ireland’s airplane fly? Wbuilt Comp Air 7 Turboprop also took to the skies. This one was built by Mr. ...Fantastic! Tommy Rose, of Mississippi. Rose is an accomplished pilot, and owner of Top Flight Aviation LLC (an aircraft brokerage firm). He has flown a wide variety of civilian During flight testing, the airplane was and military airplanes, with over 9000 hours total time logged. His personal fleet tested for one (1) ton — 2000 lbs. — of includes a couple of award-winning Cessna 185’s, a beautiful V12-powered Thunder useful load. With 1000 lbs. of fuel on Mustang (seen widely at airshows around N. America), and a Bonanza, among board, and another 1000 lbs. of payload, others. The Walter turboprop-powered Comp Air 7 is the most recent addition to Rose’s the heavily loaded aircraft easily main- collection of outstanding aircraft. tained a cruise climb of 2000 fpm at 120 mph IAS to 10,500 feet. Oxygen wasn’t During his type-familiarization and transition training on the Comp Air 7, Rose available for that flight, so a low-level commented that the CA7 was surprisingly mild mannered and easy to fly. As an cruise of 10,500' was maintained. Even experienced and competent tailwheel pilot, Rose opted to stay with the conventional at that low altitude, a true airspeed of 220 gear arrangement that was used on the factory demonstrator. mph was obtained using only 75 lbs of torque (127 lbs are available), with a fuel Rose’s airplane is gorgeous. He spared no effort outfitting the airplane, and put a lot burn of 43 gph. Ireland, who has installed of extra effort into the fit and finish of the airplane. He credits the assistance of the a permanently mounted 4-place oxygen Skybuild Builders’ Assistance Program (Merritt Island, FL) with providing system in the airplane, plans on cruising invaluable aid during the assembly of his airplane. Although the cosmetic detailing regularly at more optimal cruising resulted in an airplane that is heavier than the factory demonstrator, extra altitudes of 18,000 to 23,000 feet, where streamlining and drag reduction efforts enable it to achieve climb and cruise speeds the airplane can easily cruise between 225 close to those seen with the factory demonstrator. And flying in the quiet sound- and 250 mph TAS, with a fuel burn of dampened cabin, with its plush upholstery, autopilot, electric cabin heater, and full about 38 gph. IFR modern avionics is pure pleasure. Dr. Ireland, who had never before flown a turbine engine, reports that adapting to the high performance engine was a thrill. Even though he’d owned some nice airplanes in the past (Mooney, Baron, etc.), he’d never had a ride like the one he got in the Comp Air 7. He participated in the factory-recommended comprehensive flight-test and transition-training program. When we asked Dr. Ireland to summarize his impressions of what it’s like to fly his new Comp Air 7, he Mr. Tommy Rose with his first Comp Air 7 Turboprop - N57TR quipped, “Now I don’t ask for takeoff clearance, …I ask for launch clearance.” Even before the airplane made its maiden flight, Rose listed the aircraft for sale through his company. What? Sell this beautiful prize? Why? Watching the airplane’s aggressive climbout, it’s obvious what he means. Like all the airplanes in his fleet, Rose makes no exception for his Comp Air 7. He ...Congratulations, Dr. Ireland! says, “everything’s for sale.” Does he like his CA7? Yes! In fact, he likes it so much, he’s already well underway on the assembly of another CA7, which he expects to be AIRSHOWS flying within a couple months. His new CA7 has been dubbed a “Super Seven”, Visit Aerocomp at: because it will be about 2 inches wider than previous Comp Air 7’s and Widebody EAA Sun ‘n Fun Fly-in 2000 CA6’s. Lakeland, FL April 9-15, 2000 Rose’s first Comp Air 7 turboprop is listed for $295,000 - complete. It’s sparkling EAA AirVenture 2000 metallic-finish paint and excellent craftsmanship would make it a welcome addition Oshkosh, WI July 26 - Aug 1, 2000 to any flight line. For further details, contact Rose by telephone at: 1 (601) 635-4500.

©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. http://AEROCOMPinc.com SPRING/SUMMER 2000 Aerocomp’s Exciting Business Opportunities -- Worldwide Manufacturing and Marketing Partners Needed -- Introduction Tremendous worldwide opportunities exist for individuals or groups interested in regional manufacturing and marketing of the unique airplane products developed by Aerocomp, Inc. The following pages provide an brief outline of those opportunities.

Aerocomp International Aerocomp, Inc. is currently considering proposals from several parties to engage in a joint venture expansion of our current operations. The purpose of the expanded company will be to embark on a full-scale, worldwide marketing effort, new product development, and possible FAA certification of some of our airplanes. Additional joint venture proposals are also welcome. Worldwide Marketing During the past five years, Aerocomp’s sales have been doubling each year. The current marketing efforts have been very low-key, focused primarily on the eastern US kit-built airplane market. Daily enquiries are being received from aviation businesses around the world, expressing interest in the possibility of manufacturing and marketing our products locally. We are now ready to begin pursuing these global opportunities.

New Product Development Aerocomp, Inc. has distinguished itself by aggressive new-product development. Each year, we have brought exciting new airplanes to the market. Our engineering staff and market research team have Regions/Geography identified several additional opportunities Tremendous worldwide marketing opportunities are available. Aerocomp, Inc. is now which we look forward to pursuing, seeking individuals and groups interested in taking advantage of these unique together with new joint-venture business opportunities throughout the major geographical regions of the world. partners. These new products will be at the forefront of aviation technology, Ten major geographical regions have been identified, and are currently available for designed to fill special-purpose market consideration: niches. Along with new product 1.western United States 6. Russia and Eastern Europe development, we look forward to further (west of the Mississippi) 7. Western Europe refining our current designs, to take 2. Canada 8. China/Taiwan, Southeast Asia advantage of the experience and knowledge 3. South America 9. India gained during operations of our products. 4. Australia & New Zealand 10. Middle East 5. Africa FAA Certification Aerocomp, Inc. has received numerous inquiries about the availability of certified versions of our products, suitable for use in commercial operations. Requests for information regarding possible commercial uses are received daily. We are keenly interested in the possibility of pursuing those opportunities, and are prepared to seriously consider all proposals from qualified parties that could lead to standard airworthiness certification of our airplanes. SPRING/SUMMER 2000 http://AEROCOMPinc.com ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. Business Opportunities 2000 ...cont’d from previous page Photo Left: Investment Comp Air 7 builder Sales of Aerocomp, Inc. products have Robert Sturgis and been doubling each year, for the past five technician Kris years, and the Merritt Island, FL-based Ramsey work company is now ready to begin expanding together on Sturgis’ its operations. The time is right; the wings in the window of opportunity is open. Skybuild Builders’ Aerocomp, Inc. is seeking assistance Assistance Center meeting the rapidly-expanding worldwide demand for its products, and an Local Dealers 1) Each dealer is expected to build and opportunity to enjoy a substantial return Features/Benefits operate at least one demonstrator aircraft. on investment exists for individuals or Excellent opportunities also exist for This airplane is purchased at a 5% groups with the ability to capitalize on local dealers interested in marketing discount below regular retail price from this unique opportunity. Major worldwide Aerocomp’s unique airplanes and the manufacturer. regional Master Distributor positions are aviation products. These include the 2) Each dealer is expected to maintain a available for as little as US $2 million. following: permanent business establishment, Anticipated return on investment may be - the opportunity to locally market preferably based at a local airport, as high as 50% per annum within a few Aerocomp products. capable of housing his operations. Those years of setup. Interested parties are urged - the opportunity to purchase Aerocomp operations may include, at the dealer’s to contact Aerocomp, Inc. immediately products at dealer discount pricing, for discretion, builders’ assistance, for further details. resale to local customers. maintenance, customer support, sales & - the opportunity to establish a “builders marketing, etc. Responsibilities assistance center” devoted to serving the 3) Each dealer will be expected to Master Distributors will be expected to needs of their customers. maintain an advertising presence in his assemble and operate at least one - the opportunity to provide guidance, local market, and to display his Aerocomp, Inc. airplane (additional customer service, and flight training to airplane(s) in at least 3 aviation shows or demonstrator airplanes are highly local customers. fly-ins annually, within 250 miles of his recommended for maximum sales base of operations. effectiveness). Experience has shown that Regions/Geography at least one of those airplanes must be a Local dealership opportunities exist Dealer Discounts Comp Air 7 Turboprop. throughout the world. Interested parties Airplane #1 should contact Aerocomp, Inc. The dealer’s first airplane is Additional responsibilities include: immediately for further information, or to purchased at a 5% discount below - Local manufacturing of the Aerocomp, request a dealer application. regular retail price from the manu- Inc. product line facturer. - Regional Marketing and Sales, Investment Airplanes #2 - 5 including participation in major regional Most Dealership territories are available The second, third, fourth, and fifth aviation trade shows. for as little as $5000 US. airplanes are available from the - Establishment of a regional dealer manufacturer at a 10% discount network (existing dealers will be Responsibilities below regular retail price. incorporated into the Master Distributors Our program is simple and effective: Airplanes #6 --> network). Prospective dealers will be asked to sign The sixth, and all subsequent - Establishment of regional builders’ a simple dealer agreement outlining the airplanes, are available from the assistance & customer service centers. responsibilities of both dealer and manufacturer at a 15% discount manufacturer: below regular retail price. Contact Aerocomp, Inc. Today -- Phone Now: Photo Right: The Skybuild Builders’ 1-321-453-6641 Assistance Center - Merritt Island, FL ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. http://AEROCOMPinc.com SPRING/SUMMER 2000 The Aerocomp News Spring/Summer 2000 Performance vs. Weight Power! Speed! Performance! e all want our airplanes to be the How will you equip and finish YOUR Some common ways that builders Wbest machine on the flight line. We airplane? How will your airplane differ inadvertently increase the stall speed, invest many hours on little details to make from the factory demonstrator? landing/takeoff distances, and decrease our airplanes attractive and comfortable. the climb capability of their airplane We spend money on big powerplants that Remember that everything you add to include: will provide impressive performance your airplane will make it weigh more. 1) Increased Fuel Capacity capabilities. We study manuals and When building an airplane, every ounce If the capacity is there, it’ll likely be wiring diagrams religiously to enable us counts. Paint and finish can easily add as occupied by fuel. to hook up fancy IFR panels with all the much as 60 lbs. or more to the weight of 2) Heavier Upholstery latest avionics. an airplane. Most modifications increase It looks great, but it all adds up. weight. As improbable as it may sound, 3) More Avionics When the airplane is finished, however, we’ve seen a half-pound here, and a Sure, they come in handy - but the will it be able to match the performance pound there, easily add up to as much as avionics, antennas, wiring, etc. all adds of the factory’s demonstrator? 500 lbs. of extra weight on a finished weight. airplane. While the weight of each small 4) Paint and Finishing Details Yes, it’s possible — but only if you build item individually may seem insignificant, Layers of primer, extra layers of paint, the airplane with careful attention to and while you may consider the item’s and layers of clear coat all add weight every detail, always keeping maximum benefits essential to your objectives, if it to an airplane. performance capability in mind. wasn’t on the factory demonstrator, then 5) Modifications it’s “extra weight” — and it will decrease Aircraft design always requires When a manufacturer builds a factory the performance of your airplane. compromises — changing the design demonstrator to be used as a sales aid, may have benefits, but gaining those performance is normally a top priority. benefits will likely compromise some After all, the company wants to other desirable characteristic. impress you with the capability of their products. Bettering the performance achieved by the manufacturer will usually require a determined effort. Matching performance is easier: just build your airplane the same way the factory built theirs! Don’t modify it, or add anything.

A secondary consideration during construction of a factory demonstrator is cosmetic appearance. This always requires some compromises, because almost everything that is typically done to improve appearance of an airplane increases its weight. And, as we all know, added weight decreases performance. However, the factory (like all airplane owners) wants their products to look Value of Demonstration Flights good, so they will attempt to strike a A demonstration flight prior to purchasing a kit is absolutely essential. No one should balance between cosmetic appearance and undertake an airplane assembly project without first determining whether or not the performance. finished product will meet their objectives.

Of course, if the airplane will only be As you build your airplane, remember that adding features and equipment to your shown on static display, and no demo airplane that were not present on the demonstrator will likely decrease its rides are to be given in it, …then it is performance. easier to focus on cosmetic details. We call those airplanes “hangar queens”. In summary, are those leather seats, air conditioners, and little “bells and whistles” REALLY necessary? ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. http://AEROCOMPinc.com SPRING/SUMMER 2000 The Aerocomp News Spring 2000 Auto-start and Electronic Limiter Option for Walter Turbines he Walter 601 turboprop engine by excessive heat, leading to engine If the limiter system senses an impending Thas earned a distinguished failure. The most likely scenario for over-temperature condition, it will reputation for reliability and durability. a “hot start” would be an in-flight shut down the engine safely before The Walter factory in restart attempt following inadvertent any damage occurs. This added the Czech Republic fuel starvation (typically resulting protection significantly increases the attributes much of the from fuel tank mismanagement). value of a Walter turboprop. credit for this accom- Other times when a “hot start” may plishment to their be more likely would be during auto-start and elec- engine starts on an already warm tronic limiter system, engine (i.e. second or third engine which is installed on start in a short period of time). commercial and air- line versions of the engine.

Aerocomp, Inc. offers the limiter as a recommended $6500 option on Walter 601 turboprop firewall- forward packages. Our prototype Walter-powered Comp Air 7 factory Some externally visible electronic components demonstrator, , and two of the Walter Autostart/Limiter system turboprop Comp Air 10 aircraft were not fitted with this system. The owner This is where the value of the limiter With the autostart system, once of the prototype Comp Air 8 has since system becomes apparent. The pre-start checks have been completed, elected to retrofit the limiter to his commercial operators using Walter the pilot merely needs to switch on airplane, and is now using it regularly. engines for scheduled and passenger- the autostart system and advance the carrying flights equip their engines fuel lever. He can then focus his As our experience with these engines with the auto-start and electronic attention on monitoring relevant has increased (7 Walter-powered limiter system, because the system engine gauges. aircraft now flying successfully, and automatically assists the pilot in over 20 others under construction), monitoring critical engine parameters In summary, we have demonstrated Aerocomp Inc. has gained confidence during start-up. The limiter system that the Walter 601 engine can be in the value of the Walter limiter monitors Inter-Turbine Temperature operated safely without the autostart system. (ITT) during start, and automatically limiter system. After doing so, meters fuel to the engine appropriately, however, we have grown more Starting a Walter turboprop engine is preventing an over-temperature convinced of the value of the limiter not difficult. There are actually fewer condition from occurring. We’ve found system, and we now recommend it as steps involved in starting the Walter that maximum starting temperatures a means of protecting the engine from turboprop engine than most piston are usually about 100 deg. F. cooler serious damage during startup. The aircraft engines. A competent pilot during computer-assisted autostarts, limiter system is excellent insurance, should have no difficulty lighting the because the limiter system controls and contributes significantly to the engine successfully. the fuel supply to the engine more outstanding reliability of the Walter precisely than can be achieved manually. 601 turboprop engine. Unfortunately, if the pilot is distracted during the starting sequence, and fails “The limiter system is excellent insurance, to detect a “hot start” (over-tempera- and contributes significantly to the outstanding ture condition), the alloys used in the reliability of the Walter 601 turboprop engine.” engine could be permanently weakened SPRING/SUMMER 2000 http://AEROCOMPinc.com ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. The Aerocomp News Spring 2000 -- Auto Engine Update: Year 2000 --

uto-power! Chevy, Ford, Mazda, Cadillac Northstar Subaru SVX AVW, Subaru, etc. We often receive The most successful automotive During the summer of 1999, we reported enquiries about the feasibility of installing engine installation achieved to date in an in this newsletter that Capt. Brian Boucher modified automotive engines in Aerocomp product was the modified 4.6 was nearing completion of a Crossflow Aerocomp products. This article is liter 300HP Cadillac Northstar V8 engine Aero Corp. Subaru SVX conversion in intended to help those who are considering installed in a Comp Air 6 by Mr. Ashley his Comp Air 6. Progress since then has that option by providing a history and Jones. During 1998 and 1999, Mr. Jones been slow, because of a variety of reasons. summary of our customers’ experiences with flew his auto-powered airplane to many However, since the article was written, auto conversions. destinations in the eastern US. The Boucher’s airplane passed inspection airplane was flown to both EAA Oshkosh by a DAR, received its airworthiness At Aerocomp, Inc., our primary focus has (Wisconsin) and EAA Sun ‘n Fun certificate, and the airplane has been now been on the development and production (Florida) fly-ins. The airplane performed been successfully taxi-tested. of roomy, rugged, utility-class composite well, although it was unable to match airplanes with high useful loads, excellent the climb and cruise performance of similar It has not yet flown, however. To date, slow flight characteristics and strong airplanes powered by 300 HP certified insufficient power has been available low-maintenance corrosion-free airframes. aircraft engines. from the 250 HP-rated engine to We have been pleased with the enable the airplane to be safely flown. performance and capabilities offered by During the summer of 1999, however, This has been attributed to excessive pitch existing certified aircraft engines, and while on a trip to Alaska, Mr. Jones in the original propeller, and other have not pursued automotive-based experienced his third in-flight engine failure propellers are now being tried. Mr. powerplant options ourselves. Most of during a takeoff from a small airport in Boucher is confident that once the engine our customers have followed our lead, British Columbia, Canada. Although no is matched with the correct propeller, it will and have installed and are now happily one was injured in any of the engine perform as intended. flying certified aircraft engines. A few failures (a tribute to Mr. Jones’ piloting have opted to explore alternative skills), the airplane was substantially Cleveland 351 powerplant possibilities. damaged and had to be transported home This promising powerplant, designed to by truck. operate at only 3000 rpm in cruise, is To date, the automotive engines that have planned for a Comp Air 6 currently been utilized by some of our customers As this article went to print, Mr. Jones under construction by Mr. Jeff Banks. include: reported that he is in the process of retro- 1) Chevy fitting a used Continental to his newly 2) Subaru rebuilt airplane. He indicated to us that Photo Below: Capt. Brian Boucher puts 3) Cadillac Northstar he has no further plans at this time to the finishing touches on his Subaru SVX- 4) Cleveland 351 experiment with automotive engines in powered Comp Air 6. Other possible automotive-based his airplane. engines which have been considered, but have not yet been tried in any of our products include: Mazda Rotary engines, various diesel engines, etc. Many prospective customers have expressed interest in a variety of other “under development and soon to be available” alternative engines, but until those engines are actually in production and available for purchase, their viability cannot be determined.

Chevy In 1997, Mr. Don Delay purchased a Comp Monster kit, which he intended to In summary: all of our builders who have successfully completed their power with a Chevy V6 automotive airplanes and are now flying them installed certified aircraft engines. As this conversion. Completion of Mr. Delays article went to print, we are not aware of any automotive-powered Aerocomp project has been delayed by a variety of products which are currently being flown. Several are under construction, however, factors, and it, too, has not yet flown. and we hope to bring news of their successes in future issues of this newsletter. SPRING 2000 http://AEROCOMPinc.com ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. The Aerocomp News Spring 2000 AMPHIBIOUS FLOATS: The Best of Both Worlds?

resh trout frying over an open fire as 2) Higher Risk much side loading as conventional land Fwary deer linger in nearby woods, The most common accident during gear. If this is the case, the gear will then ...it’s a vision that compels many pilots amphibious airplane operations is landing be more likely to fail during poorly to consider float-flying. And there’s no in the water with the wheels extended. executed crosswind landings. And poorly doubt: flying a floatplane IS FUN! This is often fatal. With most amphibious executed crosswind landings are more designs, the airplane will capsize likely with a floatplane, because the floats Floats offer pilots tremendous freedom, instantly when it is landed in the water on an airplane reduce its roll responsive- excitement, and access to remote places. with the wheels extended. Pilots always ness, making it more difficult to land in a Whether flying from lakes or rivers, when think, “I won’t let it happen to me,” ...but crosswind. (The floats act like a a pilot docks, beaches, moors, or ramps it keeps happening anyway. On at least pendulum underneath the airplane). The his airplane at the end of a day’s flying, two occasions, airplanes fitted with high center of gravity of a floatplane also he’s enjoyed a world that is very Aerocomp’s SuperFloats have been increases its susceptibility to ground different from the world experienced by inadvertently landed in the water “wheels- mishaps in windy conditions. landplane pilots. down”. On both occasions, the airplanes stayed upright, and didn’t sink or capsize. 6) Shock-absorbing Capabilities Although float flying is very different in In fact, damage was minimal. They could Many amphibious designs do not incor- Florida than it is in Minnesota, Seattle, have capsized, however, and most likely porate shocks or springs into the system. Maine, Canada, or Alaska, we’ve always would have if they had been configured Even if some kind of shock or spring is enjoyed installing floats on our in a “nosewheel” instead of a “tailwheel” present, it usually does not offer as much airplanes. configuration. shock-absorbing capability as conventional landplane gear. Hard landings Many people mistakenly think that 3) High Maintenance must be avoided with amphibious “amphibious” capability (i.e. retractable Soaking brakes and wheel bearings in designs. Wheels and tires on amphibious wheels for land operations) offers the water does not improve their reliability. designs are also typically smaller than “best of both worlds”. We’ve noticed that Retractable wheels typically need “gear those commonly used on landplanes. If pilots who install retractable wheels in doors” that open and close over the wheel this is the case, the smaller wheels and their floats for that reason are usually wells. Moving parts need regular lubri- tires offer less shock absorbing, and are disappointed with the results. Instead, we cation and maintenance, and are at risk also more susceptible to problems with recommend that people who want to of malfunctioning. It is not uncommon for wheel bearings, brakes, tire wear, etc. enjoy the fantastic world of float flying weeds or other flotsam to jam moving should give up land-based operations, and parts. In summary, we feel that a pilot who become “real” float pilots (straight floats). installs retractable wheels on a water- This can be done permanently, or on a 4) Difficulty Handling on Land borne aircraft, in an effort to gain seasonal basis, with changeover to Installing retractable wheels on a water- “amphibious” capability, must accept that landplane configuration taking less than borne aircraft does NOT turn the airplane doing so increases the risk of an accident a day. into a well-behaved landplane. Any occurring. While he may gain the ability tendency to depend on the brakes will to land and takeoff from runways with his Here are a number of issues that need to likely lead to an accident eventually, seaplane, doing so will be more difficult be addressed by a pilot wanting to install because brakes that are regularly and risky than it is with a conventional retractable wheels in a water-borne immersed in water will probably fail some landplane. airplane (float-equipped or flying-hull de- day. When that happens, not only will the sign): airplane be difficult to stop, it will also Yes - Aerocomp, Inc. offers “retractable be difficult to steer, and as a result may wheel” packages for our smaller float 1) Increased Difficulty and Expense leave the runway and end up as a pile of packages. But we do so reluctantly, and Obtaining Insurance scraps on the side. The brakes on we only sell them to select individuals The insurance companies have noticed amphibious designs are often marginal, whom we are convinced fully understand that seaplanes with retractable wheels at best. and accept these compromises. Instead, statistically show an increased number of we recommend that pilots consider accidents and fatalities. As a result, 5) Poor Crosswind Capability seasonal changeovers, if needed, from insurance on amphibious aircraft tends to Retractable “amphibious” landing gear straight floats to wheels. It’s a simple be more expensive (if it’s available at all). often will not be able to withstand as process, and can easily be accomplished in less than a day. ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. http://AEROCOMPinc.com SPRING/SUMMER 2000 See Aerocomp’s Amazing Airplanes in Action — New Video Footage Now Available —

otor/Wing Sports TV (of Macon, GA) The first show (#11 in the series) The second show (#12 in the series) R invested several days last fall consists of a tour of the Skybuild features some great air-to-air video filming at Aerocomp, Inc.’s Merritt Builders Center facilities, and interviews footage of the Comp Air 6, Comp Air 7, Island, Florida facilities. Host Dan Leslie with Comp Air builders and with Comp Air 8, and Comp Air 10 flying over and his crew of professional filmmakers Skybuild’s president, Mr. Steve Darrow. Florida’s popular Cocoa Beach (a few put together a couple 1/2-hour television The show focuses on Skybuild’s unique miles south of Kennedy Space Center and shows featuring both Aerocomp, Inc. and educational program for Comp Air kit Cape Canaveral). Numerous takeoffs and the Skybuild Builders Assistance Center. builders, shows aircraft under various landings, high speed passes, slow flight, Aerocomp, Inc. manufactures the Comp stages of construction, and describes how climbs, descents, and cruise flight are Air family of kit-built airplanes and Skybuild can enable a builder to shown. The 1/2 hour show provides a lot Skybuild is a builder assistance center complete the major structural fiberglass of details about these airplanes, dedicated to helping Comp Air owners portion of his project in only 12 to 20 including interior close-ups, startup and complete their airplanes in a safe and days. Skybuild’s program helps speed taxiing scenes, ground handling, timely manner. along the initial assembly of the wings, interviews with company personnel and fuselage, landing gear, empennage, and builder/pilot interviews. Excerpts from The 1/2 hour TV segments are part of control surfaces, and helps to ensure that these professionally produced TV shows Rotor/Wing Sports TV’s aviation series, primary structural components are have now been included in Aerocomp’s broadcast weekly in the US on the correctly assembled. $25 literature and video “Information Outdoor Channel. Package” (order below). “The only way to learn more about these airplanes is to visit the factory and fly one.” Demo flights and factory tours are available most weekdays (during normal business hours) at Aerocomp, Inc.’s Merritt Island, Florida airport facilities. Visitors are welcome.

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SPRING/SUMMER 2000 http://AEROCOMPinc.com ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. AEROCOMP, INC. -- Year 2000 PRODUCT LINE Aerocomp, Inc. manufactures kits for a complete family of all-composite kit-built airplanes, ranging in size from 2 to 11 seats, powered by engines from 65 to 660 hp, with cruise speeds ranging from 75 mph to 275 mph TAS.

COMP AIR 10 COMP AIR 8 COMP AIR 7 8 to 11 place 6 to 8 place 6 or 7 place Up to 2850 lb Useful Load Up to 2500 lb Useful Load Up to 1670 lb Useful Load Cruise: 180 - 200 mph Cruise: 200 - 250 mph Cruise: 220 - 275 mph Horsepower: Up to 660 hp Horsepower: Up to 660 hp Horsepower: Up to 660 hp

COMP AIR 6 COMP AIR 4 COMP AIR 3 4 to 6 place 4-place STOL 2- or 3-place Up to 1360 lb Useful Load Up to 1460 lb Useful Load Up to 900 lb. Useful Load Cruise: 150 - 200 mph Cruise: 110 - 130 mph Cruise: 120 - 150 mph Horsepower: Up to 300 hp Horsepower: Up to 180 hp Std Horsepower: Up to 180 hp

MERLIN II 2 place Tube-and-Fabric Construction Up to 750 lb Useful Load Cruise: 70 to 95 mph Horsepower: 65 to 115

SPRING/SUMMER 2000 ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. The Aerocomp News Will Turbine Engines Soon TURBOPROP Replace Piston Powerplants? RECIPROCATING e love the exhiliarating rush of 1) Price Does Aerocomp still offer and Wripping off the runway in a Although used turbine engines are now support piston-powered airplanes? blistering takeoff that leaves bystanders available at prices competitive with --> Absolutely, Yes! in awe of our airplane’s freshly overhauled piston engines, they’re capabilities. And cruising not “cheap”. Fuel consumption is significant. We understand that turbine engines are comfortably above the Budget considerations continue to be a not suited for everyone. clouds in a smooth, vi- significant factor. bration-free, reliable tur- bine-powered airplane is 2) Performance a fantastic way to travel. Turbine engines offer pilots the ability to There’s no doubt that the equip their personal airplanes with far statistical reliability, more power than is really necessary for power, and low mainte- recreational flights. Even if the airframe nance requirements of is beefed up to safely accommodate the turbine engines makes higher horsepower, the increased them very attractive. performance capability is significantly more than most private pilots are Piston engines will continue to be a It’s only recently that installation of safe, accustomed to. At Aerocomp, we’ve suitable and popular engine choice among reliable, turbine engines has started to be- noticed that even experienced piston personal airplane owners for many years. come possible for owners of personal air- pilots are often reluctant to fully utilize We continue to sell and fully support planes. In the kit-built airplane arena, the power available to them with a piston-powered versions of our products, Aerocomp, Inc. has led the way. turbine engine. It’s not uncommon for a and intend to continue doing so for many piston pilot, transitioning for the first time years. Unfortunately, piston-powered During the past 18 months, the to a powerful turbine-powered personal airplanes don’t garnish as much attention popularity of Aerocomp’s Walter 601- airplane, to spend most of his time flying from the press, so most recent articles powered airplanes has been widely noticed. around at near-idle power settings. published about our products have Our success installing and flying these Controlling the airplane throughout its concentrated on the exciting engines has drawn the attention of the wide speed range is a new task for pilots developments in turbine engine industry, and other manufacturers are now accustomed to lower power-to-weight installations. However, despite the lack working feverishly, trying to duplicate our ratios. of press, we continue to make excellent achievements. buys on new and used Lycoming, 3) Familiarity Continental, and Franklin powerplants As this article goes to print, there are Few private pilots have experience available to our customers, and we fully seven (7) turbine-powered Aerocomp operating turbine engines, and most support and encourage the use of piston airplanes flying. Over 30 more are under small-town aircraft maintenance facilities aircraft engines in our products. construction. Soon, turbine-powered have no experience maintaining them. Aerocomp airplanes will be a regular This unfamiliarity with turbine engines in Aerocomp, Inc. fully sight at airshows and fly-ins around the small aircraft affects their popularity. supports and encourages world. This has led many prospective Until turbine engines become more customers to ask, “What is the future of common in light single-engine airplanes, the use of Lycoming, piston-powered airplanes?” they will continue to be something of a Continental, and Franklin novelty — drawing admiration and stares At Aerocomp, Inc., we believe that from disbelieving bystanders, who powerplants in our piston-powered airplanes will continue to marvel at the capabilities of turbine- products. Excellent buys be popular for many years. powered aircraft, but are reluctant to try on new, overhauled, and them for themselves. Although we love flying our turbine-powered used piston powerplants airplanes, they are specialty airplanes, are available. best suited to the demands of performance aficionados. The turbine-powered Special Purchase used piston engines are frequently listed on the airplanes are not suitable for everyone, Aerocomp, Inc. web site at http://AEROCOMPinc.com/used/ for the following reasons: ©2000 AEROCOMP, INC. http://AEROCOMPinc.com SPRING 2000 Comp Air 6 Takes a Caribbean Cruise ruising over the crystal blue waters and beautiful sandy beaches of the C Caribbean is a pleasure that few get to enjoy. During the first week of March 2000, private pilot Ivan Guzman enjoyed that rare privilege when he flew over 1200 miles - from Florida to St. Croix, where he resides. St. Croix is a beautiful little island, nestled away just a little southeast of Puerto Rico. Local residents enjoy golfing, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and wind surfing during their leisure hours. Guzman had just purchased his Comp Air 6 from Steve Darrow of Merritt Island, FL, where the airplane had been used as a factory demonstrator. Guzman is greeted by his son Eric on his arrival The weather was beautiful for the entire trip. As the CA6 cruised along, scattered fair-weather cumulus clouds played hide-and- seek with the islands dotting the Caribbean. Guzman, who prefers VFR flight to IFR, was thrilled to be able to make the flight in good weather. Although he’s accumulated over 400 hours of flying experience, Guzman had never before had an opportunity to fly through the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, or along the shoreline of the Dominican Republic.

Guzman’s Comp Air 6 is equipped with a Continental O-470 engine that was rebuilt after removal from an early model Cessna 310. The 235 HP piston powerplant provided a comfortable economy cruise - averaging 140 knots at the Guzman’s preferred cruising altitude of 7500 feet. Fuel burn was an economical 13 gph. Guzman commented that the trip cost less for fuel than a 1- way airline ticket! Guzman’s first stop was at Exuma, Bahamas. After refuelling, he continued to Grand Turk, the eastern-most island in the Turks and Caicos. From there, he then headed south to the coastline of the Dominican Republic. As the mountains of the Dominican Republic passed by on his right, he headed east again toward Puerto Rico. He arrived at San Juan International airport a few minutes before sunset, where he stopped for the night. Early the next morning, he finished the last leg of the trip with a quick one-hour flight home, where he was greeted by his wife Claritsa and very excited seven-year-old son Eric.

Within hours of his arrival, several of Guzman’s flying buddies began expressing interest in buying shares in his new airplane. We wish them all well, and we’ll be looking forward to hearing more of their Caribbean adventures in the future.

2335 Newfound Harbor Dr. Merritt Island, FL 32952 USA

Phone/Fax: 1 (321) 453-6641 http://www.AEROCOMPinc.com

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