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Ballistic Parachute Available For The Loehle Sport Parasol
The research development of the entire system took considerable time. The parachute manufacturing company was concerned with having proper attachment points. An actual Loehle Sport Parasol fuselage cockpit was constructed per the engineers' specifications and proof-loaded to destruction. Company President, Mike Loehle says "The whole development process was very time consuming and expensive... times have changed, when it comes to documenting things for the "legal" folks." The design and installation requires a special installation kit for the Loehle Sport Parasol to assure that the parachute manufacturer's specifications are met. The design of the installation kit was critical, thus the mounting/parachute kit will only be available from the Loehle Aircraft factory. The kit even has a "custom soft pack parachute bag" specifically designed for the Loehle Sport Parasol. Loehle Aircraft personnel worked with the engineers very closely to minimize the changes that were required by builders to their aircraft. Thanks to this close attention to the details, the mounting/parachute kit can be installed by customers that have aircraft already flying! The actual installation of the mounting/parachute kit should be able to be accomplished over a weekend. The parachute mounts above the cockpit, between the wings. The "gap area" between the wings on the Loehle Sport Parasol was actually designed from the beginning for a parachute installation. President Mike Loehle adds "We worked hard to design a unit that doesn't require messy, exposed cables and straps as commonly found on ultralight type planes." The entire unit weighs approximately 20 pounds. One additional item the factory wants to announce is that their phone number are code has been changed to 931. For information on ordering, call LOEHLE AIRCRAFT CORPORATION at 931/857-3419, Fax : 931/857-3908; or write the company at "The Aviation Valley", 380 Shippmans Creek Road, Wartrace, TN 37183-3302 USA.  |
Express Aircraft Shipping Parts
"We have seen a rekindling of interest in the design since we announced our plans to put the design back in production", said Larry Olson, CEO. "We were surprised to see how many people called up, have a set a wings and have decided now to order a fuselage and proceed. People who got started years ago haven't lost their enthusiasm for the appearance and performance of the design." Olson said it will be a few months yet before complete kits can be shipped out, and that when that point is reached the original configuration, with the cruciform tail, and the new model 90, with the standard tail will both be available. "We encountered considerable from new builders and expect that with the refinements that are being brought to the kit, it will regain some of its market share." The Express, originally designed by Ken Wheeler, was introduced in 1987. Well over a hundred kits were eventually delivered and a few dozen are now flying. The aircraft was one of the first four place composite aircraft in the kitplane industry. It can be fitted with a 200 to 300 hp engine, providing a cruise speed of 180 to 230 mph. Range is 1,450 to 1,650 miles. For further information on the Express Aircraft, contact the factory at (360) 352-3554 : fax (360) 352-4331 or write them at 7825 Old Highway 99 SE, Olympia, WA 98501. E-mail : cri@pacificrim.net |
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Aerostar Introduces New Launch Harness
Aerostar International, the leading manufacturer of hot air balloons in North America is proud to introduce the new Aerostar Launch Harness. As the name implicates, the new launch harness is different in its design, usage and safety features than other launch harnesses and quick releases. The new Aerostar Launch Harness is an adaptation from the large ride basket market. The harness utilizes a Kevlar lined webbing, a climbers loop commonly referred to as an "rescue 8 with ears" two carabiners, two webbing loops, one launch line and one anchor line. The Kevlar webbing is key to the safety of this system. Most launch restraints are made of nylon or polyester. Both will stretch as much as 40% before they fail. This stretching absorbs or stores energy which is released upon failure or actuation of a quick release. This can result in portions snapping back and possibly striking someone. Kevlar elongates 2% before failure. Virtually no energy can be stored. Additional, the rescue 8 allows for a smooth steady release rather than an instantaneous launch. The two webbing loops are attachable to the envelope/basket load fittings on virtually any basket. One carabiner is attached to one webbing loop and the 8 is attached to the carabiner. The other carabiner is attached to the opposite envelope/basket fitting webbing loop and the launch line. The 20' launch line is passed from the envelope/basket webbing configuration through a large ring attached to the anchor line which is secured to a vehicle. The launch line is then taken back to the basket and is looped around the 8 with ears. The excess launch line can be tied in a half hitch to prevent slippage during the inflation. As long as there is pressure on the 8, the launch harness will not slip. The completed configuration now forms a long "V" back to the anchor line. The webbing loops and the "V" work together to eliminate torquing and twisting on uprights and support poles. To launch, the pilot simply grasps the short end of the launch line in one hand and begins to allow the balloon to lift off the ground. If the pilot wants to abort the launch, they simply apply pressure to the short line and the 8 prevents further forward movement. To restart the launch, the pressure is eased and the balloon is allowed to ascend. The launch line then passes back through the 8 and the anchor line ring and is pulled into the basket by the pilot or passenger. The 20' launch line can be used as a short drop line during landings or for walking the balloon or can be stored onboard in the carrying bag provided. The Kevlar lined webbing is bright yellow so it is easy for people in and around the balloon system to identify. The breaking strength of the Kevlar webbing is 6,000 pounds. The breaking strength of the webbing loops is 6,000 pounds. The breaking strength of the carabiner is 2,000 pounds. The new Aerostar Launch Harness is available from any Aerostar dealer or distributor. Retail cost for the launch harness is $ 225. The Aerostar Launch Harness works with virtually any brand. For more information contact : Allen Schlenker Aerostar International PO Box 5057 Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5057 Phone : 605-331-3500 Fax : 605-331-3520 E-mail : sales@aerostar.com Web site : www.aerostar.com |
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British Airways' 'Concorde' Returns To EAA Airventure Oshkosh '98
Aerostar International, the leading manufacturer of hot air balloons in North America is proud to introduce the new Aerostar Launch Harness. One of the most popular attractions at the annual Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) gathering - British Airways' supersonic "Concorde" - will return for EAA Air Venture Oshkosh '98. The 46th annual event will be held July 29 to August 4 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The sleek, delta-wing jet arrives Friday, July 31st and departs Oshkosh on Monday, August 3rd. While on the ground, Concorde will be on display at AirVenture's "West Ramp" showcase area. It is Concorde's first visit to the event since 1994. "We are always pleased to welcome Concorde to Oshkosh," said AirVenture Chairman Tom Poberezny. "The supersonic airplane has been a crown-pleasers every time it has visited the event. Concorde's dramatic lines and unique place in commercial aviation make it a one-of-a-kind attraction rarely seen outside major East Coast airports." Concorde made its first Oshkosh appearance in 1985. Since then, the supersonic jetliner has visited Oshkosh in 1988, 1990 and 1994. As in past years, AirVenture '98 participants will have an opportunity to take a "local" flight aboard Concorde. Those non-supersonic flights - two each on Saturday, August 1st and Sunday, August 2nd - will depart Oshkosh and head toward Canada before returning. Local flights are organised by Travel Service Corporation, which has also handled arrangements during past Concorde visits. The rates for Concorde's local flights are $ 715, the same as in 1994. More information is available by calling Travel Service Corp at 800-634-2153. "Many people have dreamed of flying aboard Concorde but time and budget reasons may have kept them from enjoying one of the scheduled trans-At AIRVENTURE '98, people have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy a flight aboard one of the world's most famous airliners." The Concorde design is the lone commercial supersonic airliner still operating from the efforts of European, American and Soviet designers during the 1960s and early 1970s. The Soviet Union's Tupolev Tu-144 was the first such design began flights in March 1969. It began commercial service in 1976. Concorde cruises at Mach 2, or twice the speed of sound (approximately 1,350 miles per hour). The aircraft is 204 feet long and has a wingspan of 84 feet. Its tails rises 38 feet above the runway. Every one of the 100 passenger seats aboard Concorde is first-class. The aircraft, powered by four Rolls Royce/SNECMA Olympus engines, cruises at an altitude of 55,000 to 60,000 feet. EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH is one of the world's largest aviation events, annually drawing more than 800,000 people and 12,000 airplanes. EAA members receive special discounts of admission rates and parking. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 1-800-JOIN-EAA (1-800-564-6322). AIRVENTURE information is also available through the World Wide Web at http://www.flyin.org. |
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EAA Aviation Foundation's B-17 Begins National 'Wild West' Spring Tour April 23
A flying example of one of the greatest military airplanes ever built, the Boeing B-17 "Flying Fortress," will be featured on a national tour beginning April 23. Sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and the EAA Aviation Foundation the 1998 EAA B-17 "Wild West" spring schedule runs through July 15 and features the Foundation's restored B-17 bomber Aluminum Overcast. The airplane will stop at 22 locations in four states through the western United States before returning to its home in Oshkosh, Wis. "1998 marks the fifth straight year Aluminum Overcast has been flown on a major tour, but the first time it has flown to the West Coast," said Foundation President Tom Poberezny. "We want to honor the men, women and aircraft that played such an important part in World War II. The B-17 is a piece of flying history that will bring back memories for those involved in the war. It will also help younger visitors understand and appreciate the role such aircraft played in the development of both military and civil aviation." At each stop, special programs and/or tours have been scheduled to help visitors discover more about the four-engine bomber. The tours are organized with the cooperation and assistance of local EAA Chapter and will feature a complete look at the airplane's interior and exterior as well as presentations explaining more about the development and use of the B-17. The airplane's flight crew will be available at each stop to answer questions about the B-17. In addition to enabling people to discover more about the B-17 bomber, the tour's mission also hopes to increase awareness of EAA, its programs and local Chapters. Funds generated during the tour will help finance ongoing restoration and maintenance of the B-17, as well as other historic airplanes in the EAA Aviation Foundation's collection. Aluminum Overcast was built in 1945 and delivered to the Army Air Corps too late to see active service in World War II. The airplane has had a colorful history since then, however. It served in mapping and spraying operations in many countries until a private group purchased it in 1978. The airplane was donated to the EAA Aviation Foundation in 1981 with the provision of being maintained in airworthy condition. The airplane was on display at the EAA Air Adventure Museum in Oshkosh, Wis, until October 1933. It was then moved to the Foundation's Kermit Weeks Flight Research Center for maintenance and restoration procedures necessary for its first national tour in the spring of 1994. The B-17 will eventually be housed in the Air Adventure Museum's "Eagle Hangar", which features numerous World War II aircraft and exhibits. The airplane, painted in the colors of the 398th Bomb Group, will be flown by members of the EAA Warbirds of America who are experienced in World War II airplane operations. The exact program for each tour stop will be announced by local organizers. EAA is an international aviation organization with 170,000 members and more than 950 local Chapters. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 1-800-JOIN-EAA (1-800-564-6322) or explore EAA's World Wide Web site at http://www.eaa.org. The EAA Aviation Foundation was founded in 1962 and is dedicated to aviation education, preservation and research. Its headquarters are at the EAA Aviation Center in Oshkosh, Wis. Editor's Note: A complete tour itinerary is included with this release. 1998 B-17 Wild West Tour Spring Schedule (This schedule is current as of 2/17/98 and is subject to change without notice)
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Aircraft Spruce Offers Ventube TM For Single Engine Cessnas
Aircraft Spruce & Speciatly is taking orders for Ventube TM, a durable plastic replacement for Cessna pull out vent tubes. A distinct advantage of the Ventube TM is that it can be locked in the closed position, preventing unwanted air flow leakage and reducing noise. When extended, it can be twisted to control air direction or slid in and out to vary the volume of air. Designed to fit all single engine Cessnas, except the 177,208, and 210G and above, a pair of VentubesTM can be installed in minutes in most aircraft. Most often, it is a simple matter of installing a single screw into an existing hole in the wing root aluminum vent tube. Detailed instructions, along with an FAA STC Form 337, accompany each pair of tubes. Price of the tubes, part number 13-03555, is $75 and they may be ordered by calling Aircraft Spruce at (800) 824-1930; overseas (909) 372-9555; fax (909) 372-0555. |
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Air Fare Discounts Available For EAA Airventure Oshkosh '98
EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wis. - (Feb. 23, 1998) - Special air fare discounts are now available for EAA members and others who plan to attend EAA AirVenture Oshkosh '98. The 46th annual sport aviation gathering will be held July 29-August 4 at Wittman Regional Airport. EAA AirVenture discounts are available from the following airlines (be sure to refer to the proper file number when requesting the discounts):
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is one of the world's largest aviation events, annually drawing more than 800,000 people and 11,000 airplanes. EAA members receive special discounts on admission rates and parking. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 1-800-JOIN-EAA (1-800-564-6322). AirVenture information is also available through the World Wide Web at http://www.fly-in.org |
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EAA Young Eagles Pilots Now Enjoy Phillips 66 Fuel Rebates Throughout The Year
EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wis. - (Feb. 27, 1998) - For the first time, pilots flying young people through the EAA Aviation Foundation's Young Eagles Program can claim Phillips 66 Company gasoline rebates for a full year, beginning in April 1998. For the past four years, the Phillips 66 rebate program was limited to Young Eagles flights made between April and October. The rebate offer will now be available from April 15, 1998, through April 14, 1999. That includes 1998 International Young Eagles Day on Saturday, June 13. Eligible pilots who apply can receive a $1 rebate on each gallon of aviation gasoline used for Young Eagles flights. To qualify, pilots must purchase aviation gasoline at a Phillips 66 FBO with a Phillips 66 credit card. Rebates are available only for purchases of Phillips 66 100LL aviation gasoline. "The Young Eagles program has grown beyond expectations," said Tom Poberezny, EAA Aviation Foundation President. "This is partly due to the support of Phillips 66. With the fuel rebate being offered for a full year, pilots can fly more young people. That makes us even more confident that we will reach our 2003 goal of flying one million young people." Young Eagles is dedicated to flying a million young people by the end of the year 2003 - the 100th anniversary of powered flight and the 50th anniversary of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). Through Jan. 1998, more than 365,000 youngsters age 8-17 have received a free demonstration flight through the Young Eagles program. In 1997, volunteer pilots flew more than 95,000 Young Eagles, a 25 percent increase over 1996. With the year-long rebate program, EAA predicts that number will increase in 1998. "Participation in the Young Eagles Program has grown each year since Phillips 66 started the avgas rebate program," said Mark Wagner, Phillips 66 aviation manager. "We're pleased to offer the rebates for a full year if it helps increase participation in this important program." Any EAA member, pilot or Chapter, or pilot from partner organizations authorized by the EAA Aviation Foundation, can participate in the rebate program. Fuel receipts or copies must be mailed, along with a signed statement confirming the fuel was used for the Young Eagles Program, to: Young Eagles Rebate Offer Phillips 66 Company 617 Adams Building Bartlesville OK 74004 Only Phillips 66 issues the fuel rebates, not individual FBOs. Pilots may apply for the Phillips 66 credit card by calling 1-800-DO-APPLY (800-362-7759) from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Central Time) Monday through Friday, or by accessing the Phillips 66 Aviation web site (www.aviation.phillips 66.com). EAA is an international aviation organization with 170,000 members and more than 950 local Chapters. The EAA Aviation Foundation was founded in 1962 and is dedicated to aviation education, preservation and research. Its headquarters are at the EAA Aviation Center in Oshkosh, Wis. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 1-800-JOIN-EAA (1-800-564-6322) or explore EAA's World Wide Web site at http://www.eaa.org |
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Flight Instructor Refresher Course Offered At EAA Airventure Oshkosh '98
NAFI HEADQUARTERS, OSHKOSH, Wis. - (March 10, 1998) - The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) and the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics are co-sponsoring a Flight Instructor Refresher Course (FIRC) on July 29-30 at Fox Valley Technical College in Oshkosh. The FIRC is presented in conjunction with this year's EAA AirVenture Oshkosh event (July 29-Aug. 4) at Wittman Regional Airport. The two-day, 16-hour course is open to all flight instructors. It can be used as a renewal for any Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) whose ratings expire before Oct. 1, 1998. NAFI and Bureau of Aeronautics staff members provide top-quality instruction on a wide range of aviation subjects and issues. Upon completion of the FAA-approved FIRC, each participant receives a temporary renewal issued on-site. "This FIRC is a perfect way for flight instructors to make their trip to EAA AirVenture and renew their certificate at the same time," said Sean Elliott, NAFI Executive Director. "Flight instruction and sport aviation intertwine at this clinic. This is a unique opportunity for flight instructors to mix business and recreation at Oshkosh, the home of sport aviation." Registration is $150, with an exclusive $25 discount for NAFI members. The registration fee includes two lunches, refreshments and shuttle service from the EAA AirVenture grounds. Course fees may also be tax-deductible as an education expense (consult your tax advisor for details). The registration deadline is July 1, 1998. Space is limited, so CFIs are encouraged to register as soon as possible by calling 800-843-3612 or accessing the NAFI World Wide Web site (www.nafinet.org). NAFI was founded in 1967 and is dedicated to raising and maintaining the professional standing of flight instructors throughout the nation, as well as providing a safe and effective learning situation for students. In addition, NAFI initiates education and support programs throughout the aviation industry. The organization affiliated with EAA in May 1995. More information is available through NAFI's World Wide Web site (www.nafinet.org) |
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Fifth Annual EAA International Young Eagles Day June 13
EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wis. - (March 12, 1998) - Young people around the world will again have the opportunity to "take to the air" on Saturday, June 13, as the EAA Aviation Foundation hosts its fifth annual International Young Eagles Day. The event, the most ambitious, internationally coordinated effort held in conjunction with the Foundation's "Young Eagles Program" each year, seeks to introduce thousands of kids to the world of flight in a single day. The Young Eagles Program was launched during the 1992 EAA Fly-In Convention at Oshkosh, Wis. Its goal is to provide one million young people with a free demonstration airplane ride by the year 2003 - the 100th anniversary of powered flight and the 50th anniversary of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). Most Young Eagles are flown throughout the year, but International Young Eagles Day brings a special focus to this unique volunteer program. More than 370,000 young people and 20,000 volunteer pilots have already participated in the program. Those pilots have helped kids gain a new perspective on the world in which they live and the role aviation plays in their everyday lives. The pilots have also become "aviation mentors" and shared their knowledge and experience with a new generation of aviation enthusiasts. The program also brings families out to local airports, where they discover the resource an airport is to a community. "International Young Eagles Day is a natural outgrowth of the Young Eagles Program," said Tom Poberezny, EAA Aviation Foundation President. "Last year more than 15,000 young people discovered the world of flight during International Young Eagles Day. This year's Young Eagles Day provides another great opportunity for EAA members and other associated pilots to 'break down the fences' that might keep the next generation's aviation enthusiasts from discovering the possibilities available to them through aviation." As in past years, dozens of flight rallies will be held on as many as five continents (North and South America, Africa, Asia and Europe). In addition to the many large flight rallies scheduled, individual EAA pilots will provide airplane rides to kids in their local area on (or about) June 13 as well as throughout the year. Gen. Chuck Yeager, Honorary Chairman of the Young Eagles Program, will also be participating in International Young Eagles Day. He has personally flown dozens of young people since becoming Honorary Chairman in January 1994. "We have a responsibility to pass along our aviation heritage to our kids and grandkids," Yeager said. "Thousands of pilots and other EAA members already have. I hope those who haven't will start soon - if not today, then certainly on June 13." EAA members who are not pilots can also participate in International Young Eagles Day through ground activities at flight rallies or by bringing together an EAA pilot and a young person for a demonstration flight. Other designated organizations that have associated with EAA for the Young Eagles Program will also participate. "Involvement is the key to making the Young Eagles Program successful," Poberezny concluded. "For aviation to grow, each one of us who enjoys the world of flight must share our enthusiasm with someone eager to learn more. That is the challenge for all EAA members and everyone involved in aviation." The Young Eagles Logbook, other information and a schedule of events can be accessed through the EAA World Wide Web site (www.eaa.org) |
