Got the Velocity 20B back in the
air on Monday for two flights of about 30 minutes each. I have very little
data because both times I thought the video camera was recording the engine
monitor screen, but both times it was on pause too long before I pressed the
button for it to record, and didn’t realized it had gone to
auto-shutoff.
However; I have motivational
highlights. The first flight the test pilot took off and climbed out to
the NE and disappeared into the distance below some high scattered clouds.
We knew he was out there, doing his “work”, and occasionally we’d hear the
distant distinctive sound of the 3-rotor engine. After about 35 minutes of
anticipation and anxiety, we heard his call to the tower, and shortly after
could see the speck of the plane to the east. We also heard his request
for straight in over the runway, with a break to left downwind over mid-field.
And soon, there it was – in a hard left bank overhead at 1000 agl, that
distinctive beautiful gear-up canard silhouette against the background of high
broken clouds. What a sight – what a sound!! Smooth and fast - MY
airplane; my sweat and effort and anxiety. That moment of exhilaration I’ll
remember, and know one of the reasons why we do this. (Damn; video camera was in
the airplane).
Later I climbed in the right seat
for a flight to focus on engine parameters. I did that through most of the
climb-out, and for awhile as we cruised at 3500’ agl. But then I started
to enjoy the view, and the sensation of speed - even at that altitude, as we
banked over the hills and valleys. I took the stick to get a feel for the
control response. Felt great. Smooth and responsive. I was
flying my plane; with the very kool EFIS displays, cruising at 200 mph, and
enjoying the beautiful view. Definitely high; a natural
high.
For those not yet flying keep at
it; and that moment will come. Ok, there are still some problems to solve
and things to adjust, but that’s for later.
Now a little data (from my
memory). Density altitude about 7500’. Engine rpm 5200, 21-22” MAP, 175
KIAS, 197 KTAS. OAT 78F, coolant temp 175F, oil temp 205F. Still some work
to do on air flow to oil cooler.
Thanks for help getting it
there.
Al (looking forward to getting out
of insurance restriction prison so I can take left seat)