Ski-plane Flying Techniques

[Waldom]

I have flown the same Piper PA-11 (Cub) for 37 years but it has been about 35 years since I've flown it on skis. I just dug out the old, dusty Federal A-1500s the other day and replaced the bungee assemblies. I'll install them tomorrow.

I do remember that you need to put some wood strips under the skis when you park if you plan on moving again, and that a tail-low wheel landing gives you the most options when landing on unknown snow conditions. And I remember to be very cautious in "flat light" conditions.

But that's about all I remember. Any tidbits of knowledge, websites, or reference material anyone feels like suggesting would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Mike Eggen]

Ski Flying

Try here,http://www.treetopflyers.org/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl

 

[Waldom]

Tkanks very much Mike. Good discussion there.

Also found the "official word"; http://www.faa.gov/library/manuals/aircraft/seaplane_handbook/ , chapter 7

 

[icefr8dawg]

Let me know how it goes. I've got a stock J-3 with an A-65 and a pair of federals.

 

[Waldom]

A report on how it goes will not be coming until next winter.

I installed the skis, spent three hours clearing the snow drift in front of my hangar, and then dicovered that the frost had heaved up to far beneath the hangar doors that I could not open them. By the time this situation changes, the snow will be gone.

By the way, if you need any rigging for your Federals, I found Troy Reese of Aero Ski Mfg. Co., Inc. to be very helpful. The address is Box 58 Brooten MN 56316 and telephone 320-346-2285.