lml@lancaironline.net Mailing List Archive

I will agree with your statement that we are "Test pilots". But as an experimental aircraft pilot we are ALL considered test pilots. The experimental certification is: Every flight is a test flight. That's why we perform a "Conditional use" every annual. That's why we aren't constrained to PMA's TSO's STC's 8130, etc. as certified aircraft are.

Ok, I admit it.... I'm a test pilot.... And proud of it.

Randy Stuart

LNC-2

"Test Pilot"

----- Original Message -----

From: Skip Slater

To: lml

Sent: Thursday, December 03, 2009 3:21 AM

Subject: [LML] Re: Vne is NOT a meaningless number

"One IVP was lost years ago when it exceeded Vne."

Gene Long's ES also broke up in flight when it exceeded VNE during it's inexplicable descent from cruse altitude a year an a half ago.

The fact it this: No amount of pilot skill will save a plane once flutter begins to break it apart. If you knowingly exceed VNE, you are a test pilot and the only way you'll know you went too fast is as your plane is going down in pieces. Pilots who willfully ignore manufacturer established limitations are accidents looking for a place to happen. Pilots who brag about such exploits deserve a very wide berth.

I have to wonder what the instructors from HIPAT and LOBO would have to say on this subject. If they're listening, I hope they'll chime in.

Skip Slater