My First Lesson in a CF-18 Hornet

Flight Lesson in a CF-18
Captain Erick O’Connor of Canadian Forces 409 Squadron, gives LearnToFly.ca Editor, Geoff McKay, his first lesson in the cockpit of a CF-18 Hornet Fighter Jet. The CF-18 is the primary front-line fighter in Canada, and it is used every day to protect the sovereignty of the country.

CF-18 Demonstration Team
The Canadian Forces CF-18 Demonstration Team was in Toronto for the Canadian International Air Show (CIAS) (a.k.a. CNE Air Show) for the 2011 Labour Day weekend. That’s when Geoff McKay met up with Captain Erick O’Connor for a tour of the CF-18 Hornet, and an introductory lesson in the cockpit of the Hornet. The CF-18 Hornet is an absolutely amazing jet.

CF-18 Performance
When you first climb in the cockpit, you quickly realize the CF-18 is more like a computer with wings and a pair of oversized jet engines. And, it’s fast. Very Fast. The CF-18 travels at twice the speed of sound, or 2,400 km/h. (1,600 mph).

G-Forces
The on-board computer limits the g-forces during flight manoeuvres to 7.5 +g’s and 3 -g’s. The combined speed and g-forces operating envelope provides for exceptional high speed manoeuvrability, including full aerobatic capabilities. During Captain Erick O’Connor’s demonstration flights over Toronto, he showed great restraint by keeping the CF-18′s flying speed below the speed of sound to ensure he did not break the sound barrier over the crowds at the CNE.

Video: Learn To Fly a CF-18 Hornet Fighter Jet!

CF-18 Hornet Flight Lesson with Captain Erick O’Connor of 409 Squadron

Fly-By-Wire (FBW)
The Canadian Forces CF-18 Hornet is filled with amazing onboard technology including some of the most advanced flight control systems and some of the most sophisticated weapons technologies. The CF-18 is all Fly-By-Wire (FBW). In a conventional aircraft, the flight controls are manually controlled using pulleys and cables. However, with FBW, the flight controls are converted to electronic signals. These signals are then transmitted by wires (hence the “Fly-By-Wire” terminology) to the flight control computers. These onboard computers translate the inputs to determine movements of actuators managing each flight control surface.

The FBW system greatly enhances performance, stability, and manoeuvrability. With all the advanced technology onboard, Captain Erick describes himself as “just a contributor to the computer”. (@ 6:40 in the video above) But, Erick is just being modest. Don’t be fooled… Captain Erick is an astounding pilot!

Insane “Dirty Roll” Takeoff!
When Captain Erick O’Connor performs his takeoff in the CF-18 Hornet, it’s absolutely insane!

From this picture, you can see the incredible takeoff climb angle, but he then performs a “Dirty Roll” within milliseconds of being airborne. The CF-18 rolls over and continues through 360 degrees of roll until the jet is “rubber side down” once again.

Dirty Roll
During the roll, the landing gear is down, flaps are lowered, and everything is hanging out. (i.e. the aircraft configuration is “Dirty”. In a ”Clean” configuration, the gear and flaps would be retracted)

You have to see this INSANE takeoff to believe it. (@ 0:07 in the video above, and also @ 7:04 in the video)

CF-18 Aerobatics
The CF-18 flown by Captain Erick dazzles audiences all over North America. Captain Erick performs astonishing aerobatics in the CF-18 Hornet including looping manoeuvres, rolling manoeuvres, High-G 360 turns (@ 5:25 in the video above), inverted flight, vertical climbs, hesitation rolls, and his signature “Dirty Roll” on takeoff.

High G Vertical Pull-Up
Here you see the CF-18 Hornet in a High-G vertical pull-up, as the Hornet climbs to a straight up vertical position. (Click on the picture for a close-up view)

Ripping the Air
The CF-18 Hornet pictured here is ripping through the air, and strong vortices are spawning that generate very turbulent air currents over the wings, and at the wing tips. Despite this ridiculously high angle of attack, the Hornet is still able to generate aerodynamic lift and rocket through the air.

White Vapour – Not Smoke
That’s White Vapour, or mist you see swirling around the jet. It may look like smoke, but it’s moisture in the air condensing into cloud. The extremely high angle of attack during this high g pull-up causes powerful vortices to form around the edge of the CF-18 aircraft.

Bernoulli’s Principle
Bernoulli’s principle states that for any increase in speed of a fluid (or in this case the air), there occurs simultaneously a decrease in pressure. As the air rushes over the wing, and around surfaces such as the leading edge of the wing, the wing tips, and the missile shaped fuselage, it is diverted around the contour or shape of the object. The air particles (or parcel of air), must increase in velocity to travel a farther distance than its counterpart air parcel on the other side of the obstruction. When the air particles meet together again, the parcel of air that has been re-routed around the surface has travelled a longer distance in the same amount of time. To do this, it had to increase in velocity or speed. With the increase of velocity, there is an associated drop in pressure. With the drop in pressure, there is a resulting drop in air temperature.

The vortices and resultant turbulent air, and re-directed air parcels have a large drop in pressure. Proving Bernoulli’s Principle, this results in an accompanying temperature drop in the air parcels. The air is instantly cooled, and the amount of moisture that could previously be held in the air drops suddenly. The previously warmer air could hold a higher percentage of water particles. However, the now cooler air can no longer hold all the moisture, and it instantly condenses into water vapour or mist.

Physics 101
With the cooler air, the severe drop in temperature is sufficient to condense the normally invisible air into water causing the white “vapour” to be seen. Typically, wing tip vortices and other air disruption would not be visible, but with the extremely high velocity of the CF-18′s manoeuvre, and the pressure drop of air parcels, the moisture in the air condenses and the smoke like white “vapour” (or cloud) suddenly appears.

The science is amazing, but seeing this happen around the CF-18 Hornet as it is ripping through the air is truly spectacular!

McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet
The CF-18 Hornet is based on the American McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet. The 2011 CF-18 Demonstration Pilot, Captain Erick O’Connor is from 409 Squadron of the Canadian Forces located in Cold Lake, Alberta. The CF-18 Demonstration Jet is maintained from two Air Force Wings.

3 Wing CFB Bagotville, Quebec
No. 425 Alouette Tactical Fighter Squadron
Supports CF-18 performances in Eastern Canada.

4 Wing CFB Cold Lake, Alberta
No. 409 Nighthawks Tactical Fighter Squadron
No. 410 Cougars Tactical Fighter (Operational Training) Squadron
Supports CF-18 performances in Western Canada.

Fake Canopy
Painted on the bottom side of any Canadian Forces CF-18 Hornet is a “Fake Canopy”. (@ 3:09 in the video above) The outline of the canopy is painted in a black paint to create the illusion of the cockpit canopy on the grey underside. From a distance this looks remarkably like the real canopy on the reverse side. The strategy is to confuse the enemy with regard to the orientation of the aircraft, to give the Canadian pilots a slight advantage over enemy pilots and enemy ground personnel.

Paint Scheme
Pictured here, you see a pair of CF-18 Hornet Fighter Jets. The CF-18 in the back has the typical, mono colour, military grey paint scheme. In the front, however, we see the custom painted 2011 CF-18 Demonstration Jet.

The 2011 CF-18 Demonstration Team Jet has been specially painted to commemorate military families. The jet is adorned with a brilliant dorsal and tail artwork. The freehand airbrush and paint gun murals are beautifully painted in reds and blues.

Yellow Ribbon
This special design is accentuated by the iconic military yellow ribbon. This swirling yellow ribbon design loops around the cockpit, and extends down the jet’s back and wraps the twin tails.

Supporting Military Families
Painted on the red tail, you see a family. (@ 5:46 in the video above) The family theme is a big part of the CF-18 Demonstration Team’s work. The tail flash also displays the three elements of the Canadian Forces including the Air Force, Navy and Army. (@ 5:56 in the video above)

CF-18 Hornet Cockpit
I love the cockpit in the CF-18 Hornet. As a Fly-By-Wire aircraft, the cockpit is primarily a computer centre.

For the younger generation, the cockpit feels like home. A familiar looking Joystick greets you instead of a traditional Yoke. The joystick control is centred, and the front panel has three, colour, digital displays surrounded by buttons.

The Joystick control includes a mouse-like interface allowing the computer user (a.k.a. Pilot), to move the “cursor” around to the different display screens to select options and controls, and cancel or select functions. (@ 1:28 in the video above)

Fully Customizable
The CF-18 Cockpit digital displays are fully customizable allowing the pilot to configure the displays for his or her personal preferences. For instance, the Targeting Pod, Radar, Horizontal Situation Indicator (HSI), and Situational Awareness System (a.k.a. “God’s Eye View”) may be moved to any digital display for optimized viewing and accessibility.

Multiple Contributors
Amazingly, there can be multiple contributors where information and data from multiple, external sources (i.e. other aircraft in the formation) can automatically transmit critical data (such as radar activity) directly to the CF-18 screens. The pilot now has data augmented from multiple sources and integrated into his onboard display in the cockpit.

JHMCS
The CF-18 Hornet has the standard Heads Up Display (HUD) mounted in the pilot’s line of sight above the cockpit panel. But, the CF-18 is also equipped with JHMCS – Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System.

Pictured here, Captain Erick O’Connor is seen wearing the Helmet and Goggles that make up the JHMCS system. Those are not large sunglasses, but an incredible and sophisticated piece of technology. JHMCS enables the pilot to acquire targets via turning his head and looking at the target location as important cockpit information continues to be displayed before his eyes.

Boeing Technology
Developed by Boeing, the Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) is a multi-role system that enhances pilot situational awareness and provides head-out control of aircraft targeting systems and sensors, accelerating the acquisition of enemy targets. (@ 3:25 in the video above)

The CF-18 Hornet is configured with both JHMCS and AIM-9X missile. This effective combination forms the High-Off-BoreSight (HOBS) system. HOBS is an airborne weapon-interception system enabling the pilot to accurately direct, or “cue” onboard weapons against enemy targets by merely pointing their heads at the target. The HOBS system guides the weapons, allowing the pilot to perform High-G flight manoeuvres during the attack.

Remarkable Aircraft
The Canadian Forces CF-18 Hornet is a truly remarkable aircraft. According to Hornet Pilot, Captain Erick O’Connor, “flying the CF-18 Hornet is easy”.

My First Lesson
After my personal tour of the CF-18 fighter jet, and my first in-cockpit lesson, I began to realize just how advanced this amazing aircraft truly is.

Transitioning from a Cessna 172, to a CF-18 should be the next rating every daring pilot should pursue

Learn To Fly a CF-18 Hornet
Special thanks to Captain Erick O’Connor of the 409 Squadron, the 2011 CF-18 Demonstration Team, and to the CIAS for making this day possible.

It was a great opportunity for LearnToFly.ca Editor, Geoff McKay, to receive a personal cockpit lesson in one of the most advanced aircraft in the skies today.

Dirty Roll
Lessons over… It’s time for a “Dirty Roll” on take-off in the Canadian Forces CF-18 Hornet!

For more photos from this adventure, visit our CF-18 Hornet Photo Album on the LearnToFly.ca Facebook Page. (Don’t forget to “Like Us” on FB)

Related Articles:

1. The Quebec International Air Show, June 2010
2. Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jet Trainer
3. Brantford Air Show 2010

F-1 Rocket Homebuilt Airplane – “Little Bit”

Wayne Hadath
The 2011 Waterloo Air Show was another great adventure. It was at this air show, that LearnToFly.ca Editors Greg McKay and Geoff McKay met up with Wayne Hadath of Kitchener, Ontario. Wayne built his very own TeamRocket F1 Rocket Sports Wing Racing Aircraft. And, Wayne built his F-1 Rocket from parts, not a quick-build kit!

Pictured here, you can see Builder/Owner/Pilot Wayne Hadath in his F1 Rocket with Geoff in the rear seat (Tandem seating) preparing to take-off. In the background, you can see the Canadian Forces CF-18 military fighter jet also preparing to take-off. (Think of Wayne’s “F1″ as a “younger brother” to the larger F-Series aircraft like the “F-16″ or the “F-18″ in the background!)

The air-space was very busy with F-18′s, Viper F-16′s, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the RCAF Golden Hawks F-86 Sabre, the Jet Aircraft Museum (JAM) Mako Shark T-33 Jet, and Wayne’s F-1 Rocket Racing Aircraft all jockeying for position. (Watch for the Mako Shark T-33 overhead in the video below (@ 3:45) as Wayne taxis to the runway before take-off)

Fast! Fast! Fast!
Wayne’s F1 Rocket was the 2011 winner of the prestigious EAA AirVenture Cup Race. Wayne flew his homebuilt F-1 Rocket in the 400 mile competition from Wright Brothers Airport (MGY) in Dayton, Ohio into Oshkosh with an average speed of approximately 250 mph – placing first in the competition! Geoff was given the rare opportunity to join Wayne as he demonstrated what it’s like to fly at 250+ mph in the F-1 Rocket! The Harmon F1 Rocket is well known for its unbelievable speed!

Pilot Interview and Cockpit Video – F1 Rocket!
Wayne Hadath gives you a personal tour of his high performance F1 Rocket Homebuilt Racing Aircraft.

F1 Rocket: Pilot Interview and Awesome Cockpit Video!

Watch Wayne Hadath in his F1 Rocket at the Waterloo Air Show!

Fully Aerobatic!
The F1 Rocket is fully aerobatic, and an incredibly fun aircraft to fly. It feels like F-16 performance, but in a homebuilt F-1 aircraft. With a top speed of 275 mph (442 kmh), and a fantastic climb rate of 3,500+ feet per minute (fpm), the F-1 really does feel like a rocket when you take-off. It felt like we climbed almost straight up, to an altitude of 4,500, feet within seconds. The F1 Rocket is rated to Plus 6 G’s and Minus 3 G’s.

Steep Turns!
From this picture, you can see the F1 Rocket is amazing at very Steep Turns! With a bank angle of almost 90 degrees, you can see the zebra striped black and white left (port) wingtip pointed almost directly at the ground. Watch the video (above) as we complete two full revolutions (720 degrees) in a left turn with a steady bank angle of nearly 90 degrees as we maintain altitude. The little Rudder on the back of “Little Bit” is used like an Elevator to maintain altitude in these very steep turns.

Watch the Video: Count Two Revolutions
In the video (@ 7:45), you can see the lake below as we begin the steep turn to the left. In only 45 seconds, we have completed two full circles. After sustaining 4 G’s (3.8 Peak G readout during the flight), you really begin to appreciate the amazing performance of this homebuilt racing aircraft. The F1 Rocket has set many speed records, but it also has superb manoeuvrability, and it is fully aerobatic.

Great Visibility
The F1 Rocket is a low wing airplane, providing great visibility from the glass canopy just above your head. The view is spectacular!

Smoke On Board
This year, Wayne added “Smoke” on board to his F1 Rocket for Air Show performances. This adds a few extra pounds to the airplane, but it looks great as the F1 Rocket flies past the adoring crowds. You can see the streamlined look of the F1 Rocket. Even the tail-wheel has a “Wheel Pant” (Wheel Fairing) to minimize drag for best performance. Every “Little Bit” helps when you want to set speed records.

“Little Bit”
Wayne named his homebuilt F1 Rocket “Little Bit”. As he was building his homebuilt aircraft, family and friends always asked when he would be finished. Wayne’s reply was: In a “Little Bit”. Wayne also notes that to come in first place during a speed race, you only need to win by a “Little Bit” to take the cup. Wayne also notes the airplane came in many pieces, and he built it a “Little Bit” at a time. Additionally, Wayne understands that in performance and fuel economy, every “Little Bit” counts. Wayne also compares flying his airplane to a “Little Bit” of heaven.

Primer Paint Job
I love the black and white “Zebra” paint scheme used for “Little Bit”. But, what you are seeing is actually just the “primer”, and not even paint. The few extra pounds of weight, from applying “paint” to the aircraft will make it heavier and slower. Every “Little Bit” of weight matters, so Wayne leaves the airplane with just the primer, and he has the World Speed Record to prove it.

F1 Rocket Cockpit
Take a look inside the F1 Rocket Cockpit. When you climb inside the F1 Rocket, you have a five-point restraint harness to hold you securely in place. The five belts include: 2 Lap Belts, 1 Crotch Belt, 2 Shoulder Belts.

Stick
Instead of a “Yoke”, you have the “Stick” centered in front of you to control the airplane. Pull the stick back, and the F1 Rocket accelerates quickly upwards. Push the stick forward, and you are diving to the ground. Left and Right movement of the stick will bank the F1 Rocket to either side. Your right hand is on the stick, and your left hand is used to control the throttles mounted to the left side-wall of the cockpit fuselage. Light control inputs are all you need to coax the F1 Rocket where you want to go.

Rudder Pedals
There is not too much adverse yaw experienced with this high performance airplane, but the rudder pedals are on the floor straight out in front. Down in front, on the floor, you can see the two rudder pedals controlled by your feet. Sitting in the tight cockpit, reminds you of the small motorized go-karts you may have driven as a young person. It feels like a high-performance aircraft, even when you are just sitting on the ground. The cockpit surrounds you, and you are almost sitting flat on the bottom of the fuselage with only a thin cushion for your seat.

Tandem Seating
The F1 Rocket features Tandem Seating. The airplane seats two, but instead of sitting side-by-side, you are positioned front and back. There is a control stick in both compartments, providing the rear passenger access to the controls. You can see the similar five-point restraint harness in the rear seat. (FYI, in the background of this picture, you can see another Canadian Forces F-18 Jet)

Utilitarian
When seated in the back, your feet extend straight forward along both sides of the front pilot’s seat. It’s all very cozy and tight. The aircraft is built for speed, and not comfort. The inside of the fuselage is very basic, and appears almost utilitarian. It’s designed for function over form.

Comforting Notice?
Inside the rear compartment, there is a decal affixed to the inside of the fuselage wall. It’s may not be the most reassuring or comforting notice, but it’s an important disclaimer prominently mounted that reads as follows:

IMPORTANT NOTICE:
YOU FLY IN THIS AIRCRAFT AT YOUR OWN RISK. THIS AIRCRAFT DOES NOT COMPLY WITH INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED STANDARDS.

IMHO, I think this just adds to the excitement and drama of flying in this unbelievably fast F1 Rocket!

Speed Records
Another decal inside the rear passenger compartment proudly boasts about the record breaking speed of this F1 Rocket. The decal highlights the 2006, 3rd place finish in the Rocket 100 Air Race – TeamRocket – with an official speed of 229.2 mph.

Since 2006, this F1 Rocket has accumulated many more wins including the coveted first place finish in 2011 at EAA AirVenture with an average speed of nearly 250 mph.

Accomplishments
Wayne Hadath has achieved many incredible accomplishments with his homebuilt F1 Rocket “Little Bit”.

Built for speed, this F1 Rocket was even awarded the title of “The Fastest Rocket in the Known Universe” in 2008.  It has also earned the First Place Award for fastest in the Overall Sport FX Class. In short, this F1 Rocket is very fast, and it has the awards to prove it! (Translation: It’s Fast!)

September 2005
Wayne completed building his homebuilt F1 Rocket in 2005, and the first flight was logged on September 28, 2005. The first test flight was flown by Gerry Younger, an Unlimited Aerobatic Champion.

Waterloo Air Show
I previously met Wayne Hadath at the 2010 Waterloo Air Show, But, it was especially exciting to fly with Wayne, in his F1 Rocket “Little Bit”, at the 2011 Waterloo Air Show this year.

Wayne Hadath
Wayne is a really great guy. He’s flown over 500 hours in “Little Bit”, and he has been flying since 1989. He began by flying Cessna 172′s, but now his passion is for flying his homebuilt F1 Rocket “Little Bit”.

Look Up
If you see a “Zebra Striped” black and white Racing Aircraft soaring through the skies, chances are it’s Wayne Hadath in his F1 Rocket “Little Bit”, and he is travelling at almost 250 mph.

Thanks to Wayne Hadath and the Waterloo Air Show for a great flying experience!

Thanks for reading.

B-25J Mitchell “HOT GEN!” Medium Bomber

B-25 Hot Gen!
The North American B-25J Mitchell Medium Bomber owned by the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum (CWHM) is affectionately known as Hot Gen because of its painted Nose Art. It was customary to paint either ”Pin-Ups” or Comic Strip Characters on the noses of W.W. II Warbirds and bombers.

Nose Art
Nose Art is a decorative painting or design on the fuselage of a military aircraft. As the name implies, Nose Art is usually located near the nose of the aircraft, and it is a stylish form of aircraft graffiti.

Nose Art was originally used to help pilots and military personnel to identify friendly aircraft, and help forces to distinguish Allied aircraft from enemy fleets. However, the custom of painting Nose Art on aircraft quickly evolved, and it was later used to express the personality and individuality of the aircraft and the squadron. Crew would have a strong sense of attachment and loyalty to their aircraft and the Nose Art helped to personalize and animate the aircraft.

Hot Gen! Nose Art
(Whistle and Cat Calls go here. Click on the Nose Art Photo for a better view!)

Superstition and Luck!
Aircraft Nose Art was often used to remind the soldiers of home and bring back memories of peacetime life. The Nose Art also offered a form of “Psychological Protection”. Crew would feel a sense of protection, and they believed there would be “good luck” with them because of the iconic emblem on their aircraft.

Psychologically, the Nose Art help relieve the stresses of war and it was believed to protect the pilots and crew from the probability of death. The Hot Gen! Nose Art was added to the CWHM B-25J Bomber back in 1992. Then in 1993, the white D-Day Stripes were added to the medium bomber to give it the look we still see today. The B-25J Mitchell (45-8883) was also known as “Grumpy”.

Hamilton Air Show
It was at the Hamilton Air Show, when the editors of LearnToFly.ca were given an up close and personal tour of Hot Gen. We were invited on the Hot Ramp (Active/Live Ramp) and we were very lucky to get some awesome photos and video of the North American B-25J Mitchell “HOT GEN!” in action.

Twin Engine Bomber
It was absolutely amazing to see the Wright R-2600 Radial Engines roar to life. Each engine generates 1,850 HP, and we were quite close to the Twin Engines as each was started up. The B-25 Bomber then taxied to the runway for some impressive fly-bys with other W.W. II Warbird Bombers.

Watch the Video!
As you watch the video, you can see each of the Radial Engines being started up separately. First the Right Engine, and then about 25 seconds later, you see the propeller on the Left Engine slowly beginning to rotate.

B-25 Video: North American B-25J Mitchell “Hot Gen!” Medium Bomber

Watch the B-25 Mitchell Twin Engines start up, and then Hot Gen takes to the sky!

B-25J Mitchell
The North American B-25 Mitchell in action at the Hamilton Air Show.

B-25 in Flight
You can see how beautiful Hot Gen is, when you see this photo of the CWHM North American B-25J Mitchell Bomber in flight. The B-25 was a medium sized bomber, so it’s not the largest warbird you will see. However, it’s still very impressive and a spectacular aircraft to see in flight.

B-25J
The B-25 Mitchell was produced in many variants (A through J) with the B-25J being the final production version. Nearly 10,000 B-25′s were built, but the ‘J’ Variant was the most popular version, with a total of 4,318 built. The ‘J’ Version of the B-25 typically had a transparent Nose, but many were modified to utilize the more conventional solid nose such as we see here on this B-25J.

Machine Guns
You can see the many machine guns on the B-25 bomber. Most were forward facing for strafing missions, and the B-25J would usually be configured with 14 to 18 machine guns. Typically, these were .50 inch machine guns (12.7 mm), and they would be mounted to have 10 coming, and four going during attacks.

Mitchell III
The B-25 Mitchell was named after General Billy Mitchell, a well known U.S. Military Aviator. The B-25J owned by CWHM was known as a Mitchell III and it was painted using the colour scheme of the Number 98 RAF (Royal Air Force) Squadron which fought over North West Europe during 1944-1945.

NA-108
CWHM’s B-25J Mitchell Bomber (N-Number: NA-108) was manufactured and assembled at North American’s Kansas City Plant in early 1945. This B-25 Mitchell was first sold to civilian operators to be used as a corporate transport aircraft by several companies. It was used exclusively in civilian service, and it never did see military service. In 1975, CWHM found the B-25J aircraft abandoned in Wilmington, Delaware.

Extensive Restoration
After being rescued by CWHM, the abandoned B-25J Mitchell underwent extensive restorations and it is now a flying example of aviation history. Nearly seven decades old, this meticulously restored aircraft is a delight to experience, and it is maintained in wonderful condition to be shared with Canadians.

Noisy Roar
The B-25 Mitchell was well known for the extremely high noise levels produced by the twin engines. (You can hear the rumble of the twin engines from the video above) Many B-25 Pilots eventually suffered from hearing loss. The high noise levels were a by-product of the design of the engine cowling ring and the exhaust “stacks” that directed engine exhaust and accompanying noise directly at the pilot and crew compartments. Later modifications were used to re-direct the exhaust and noise through the bottom of the cowling, but the original B-25 engines would subject the pilots and crew to extremely high noise levels.

Pilots often remarked: “The B-25 is the fastest way to turn aviation fuel directly into noise!”

Flight Characteristics
The North American B-25J Mitchell is a twin engine medium sized bomber that was very sturdy and reliable. It could withstand terrible punishment and still return safely to base to be repaired before its next military mission. Pilots loved the flight characteristics, and they describe it as a safe and forgiving aircraft to fly.

Even with one engine out, the B-25 could be safely flown and well manoeuvred. With one engine dead, the B-25 could still handle a 60 degree bank into the dead engine with airspeeds as low as 145 mph.

The high cockpit and tricycle landing gear provides for excellent pilot visibility while taxiing.

Crew
The B-25 Mitchell typically had a crew of six with one Pilot, one Co-Pilot, one Navigator/Bombardier, one Turret Gunner/Engineer, one Radio Operator/Waist Gunner, and one Tail Gunner.

B-25J Mitchell Specifications:

• Maximum Speed: 275 mph
• Cruise Speed: 230 mph
• Range: 2,700 mi
• Service Ceiling: 25,000 ft
• Rate of Climb: 790 ft/min
• Length: 52 ft 11 in
• Wingspan: 67 ft 6 in
• Height: 17 ft 7 in
• Max takeoff weight: 41,800 lb

It was awesome to see this North American B-25J Mitchell “HOT GEN!” in action at the Hamilton Air Show. Thanks to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum (CWHM) and the Air Show for inviting LearnToFly.ca for a tour.

Related Articles:

1. North American T-28 Trojan
2. Curtiss-Wright SB2C Helldiver
3. Hamilton Air Show June 2011

The World’s Only Flying SB2C Helldiver!

CAF Helldiver
This Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Helldiver is the only Curtiss SB2C Helldiver still flying in the entire world! Approximately 7,200 Helldivers were built, and of these only five are left. Of the five remaining SB2C’s, only this one (Number 32) is currently flying.

The SB2C Navy Dive Bomber is an incredible aircraft. The editors of LearnToFly.ca had the rare and very fortunate opportunity to get close-up with this last remaining flying Curtiss SB2C Helldiver.

70 Years Old
The SB2C Helldiver was manufactured by the Curtiss-Wright Corporation for the US Navy during W.W. II. The first production SB2C Helldiver was flown in 1942, and now almost 70 years later, the last SB2C is still flying.

Last of the Dive Bombers
It was an awesome opportunity to see this last flying example of the SB2C Helldiver. Number 32 is the only flying SB2C Helldiver in the world, and we met up with Lead Pilot Mark Allen of the CAF as he gave us a personal tour of the aircraft. I’ve always loved the Navy Warplanes, but the SB2C Helldiver is a favourite for many.

Hot Ramp
The Learn to Fly Guys (LearnToFly.ca Editors Greg McKay and Geoff McKay) were invited on to the Hot Ramp (Active/Live Ramp) at the Hamilton Air Show for pilot interviews and a firsthand tour of the many warbirds and vintage aircraft. During the coming weeks, we will be sharing many of these exclusive pilot interviews and amazing up close photos of vintage warbirds with our online visitors and email subscribers.

Pilot Interview: CAF Pilot Mark Allen and the Curtiss SB2C Helldiver

Lead Pilot Mark Allen talks about the Curtiss-Wright SB2C Helldiver Navy Bomber

Carrier Based
The Curtiss-Wright SB2C Helldiver was designed for the US Navy to be a Carrier based dive bomber. The CAF Helldiver (Number 32) flown by pilot Mark Allen is the SB2C-5 model. This was the last production version of the SB2C and it was in active service by the Navy from July 5, 1945 through August 31, 1948. The Helldiver’s two tone navy blue and grey colours are commemorative of the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Franklin CV-13.

Folding Wings
As a Carrier based Navy warbird, the SB2C Helldiver was designed with Folding Wings! It’s truly amazing to see this aircraft open and close its wings. By folding the wings up, the footprint required on the aircraft carrier deck would be minimized, allowing for considerably more aircraft to be utilized. At war, it was desirable to have the maximum number of warbirds that could be operated and flown from a single aircraft carrier.

Don’t try this in Flight!
Pilot Mark Allen demonstrates the awesome engineering of this aircraft as he automatically opens or closes the wings. Obviously, he would never do this in flight, but for ground operations it is truly incredible to watch as the wings fold up and the wing tips come to rest nested together above the cockpit. For aviation technology designed and built almost seven decades ago, it is fantastic even to this day!

The folding wings of the SB2C Helldiver are unforgettable. With this being the last flying SB2C Helldiver in the world, it was an honour to see this unique and one-of-a-kind remnant of aviation history in action.

Clipped Wings?
Yes, those are the SB2C Wings neatly folded together above the cockpit as pilot Mark Allen and crew secure the airplane after a great performance at the Hamilton Air Show.

End of an Era
The Curtiss-Wright SB2C Helldiver was the last true Dive Bomber produced for the US Navy. Amazingly, SB2C aircraft were responsible for more ship tonnage sunk during World War II than any other type of aircraft.

Big-Tailed Beast
The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was often referred to as the “Big-Tailed Beast”, or simply the “Beast” and it was an important asset in the US Navy’s arsenal of weapons and armament. Lead Pilot Mark Allen tells us he started by flying the Harvard, but he is now especially lucky and privileged to be commanding this last flying SB2C in the world.

Stunning Performance
The SB2C Helldiver has a stall speed of about 65 knots, and it can fly as fast as 350 knots in an 80 degree dive with the dive flaps out. Capable of plus 5 G’s and minus 3 G’s, the Helldiver has certainly earned its name!

Rear Gunner
The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was equipped with a Rear Gunner seat. The aircraft was a two-seat scout and Dive-Bomber. Configured for one pilot and one gunner, the rear seat was for the gunner who faced backwards to defend the Helldiver from attack from behind. The rear gunner had two .30 calibre machine guns to protect the Helldiver from enemy attack.

Mounted in the wings were two (or sometimes four) 20mm cannons for strafing enemy ships and other targets during dive bomb missions. The SB2C also carried a payload of up to 2,000 pounds of bombs. (1,000 pounds could be carried in the bomb bay, and another 1,000 pounds of bombs could be carried under the wings) The SB2C could also carry up to eight 5-inch rockets.

You can see lead pilot Mark Allen preparing for a flight with an aerial photographer seated in the rear gunner seat.

Specifications
The Curtiss-Wright SB2C Helldiver could climb to 10,000 feet in less than 9 minutes, and it had a service ceiling of 26,400 feet. With a range of 1,805 miles, the Helldiver was a formidable force in the skies during W.W. II.

Take-Off
The Curtiss-Wright SB2C-5 Helldiver takes to the air at the Hamilton Air Show. It performed several fly-bys with other Navy warplanes from W.W. II.

The Helldiver was one of the greatest Navy Planes of W.W. II. The demand for the Helldiver by the U.S. Navy was so great, that the British only received 26 SB2C’s from a British order of 450 of these aircraft.

It was a spectacular sight to see, and it’s especially significant considering this is the only flying Curtiss SB2C Helldiver in the world!

Many thanks to the Hamilton Air Show, the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and lead Pilot Mark Allen for spending some time with the editors of LearnToFly.ca. The Number 32, Curtiss-Wright SB2C-5 Helldiver Navy Dive Bomber is truly an original, and it’s nice to share details about this vintage warplane with our online visitors.

We look forward to sharing many more exclusive aviation videos and photos from our pilot interviews at the Hamilton Air Show.

Related Articles:

1. Hamilton Air Show June 2011
2. North American B-25 Mitchell Bomber
3. North American T-28 Trojan

Milla Jovovich in the Yak-52 Cockpit

Have you seen Resident Evil: Afterlife?
Milla Jovovich (Alice) and Ali Larter (Claire Redfield) fly around in a vintage Yak-52 airplane as they battle deadly Zombies and the corrupt Umbrella Corporation. As the tyrant Zombie Virus spreads around the globe, Alice and Claire must fly from Tokyo to Alaska in their beautiful, red Yak-52 airplane in search of a safe haven (Arcadia) for un-infected humans.

Pilots – Don’t miss this Movie!
The Yak-52 aircraft is one of the biggest stars of this latest Resident Evil movie. Pilots of all ages will want to see this incredible airplane in action! In one scene, the Yak-52 even lands on a building roof-top as the attacking Zombies surround the building. The Yak-52 used in the filming is a 1983, soviet trainer that is fully aerobatic and boasts a top speed of 400 kmh.

Martin Mattes of Bandit Airshows
LearnToFly.ca Editors, Geoff McKay and Greg McKay met up with Yak-52 owner and Pilot, Martin Mattes of Bandit Airshows at the Brantford, Ontario airport. Martin told us all about his recent experience as the Yak-52 Pilot during filming of Resident Evil: Afterlife at the Oshawa, Ontario airport. Martin Mattes’ vintage Yak-52 was the actual aircraft you see Milla Jovovich and Ali Larter fly. For the flight scenes, Martin was dressed as Milla Jovovich, and Martin was the Stunt Pilot who actually flew the Yak-52 for the camera. Believe it or not, it’s Martin Mattes, dressed as the beautiful Milla Jovovich, who stars in the amazing Yak-52 flight scenes.

Pilot Interview with Martin Mattes and his Yak-52

Yak-52 Owner Martin Mattes A.K.A. Milla Jovovich as Alice in Resident Evil: Afterlife

Resident Evil: Afterlife 3D
Directed by Paul Anderson, this is the fourth movie in the very successful Resident Evil Film Franchise. BTW, Director Paul Anderson and star Milla Jovovich are married in real life. They met during the filming of the first Resident Evil movie in 2002, and were married in 2009.

Paul W. S. Anderson wrote and directed his first Resident Evil movie back in 2002, and his success continues with “Resident Evil: Afterlife”, the fourth movie in the series. Based on the popular Resident Evil video game, these science fiction horror films are filled with evil zombies trying to infect the remaining humans with the globally spreading Zombie Virus accidentally released by the Umbrella Corporation.

Resident Evil Movie Franchise

1. Resident Evil (2002)
2. Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004)
3. Resident Evil: Extinction (2007)
4. Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010)

Ali Larter in the Yak-52
Here we see Ali Larter, playing Claire Redfield, seated in the back of the Yak-52 soviet aircraft, during filming of Resident Evil: Afterlife.

During filming, Martin Mattes helped the actors to familiarize themselves with the Yak-52, and he assisted them with getting into the cockpit. During this scene, Milla (Alice) and Ali (Claire) prepare to fly the Yak-52 as they follow the radio broadcasts in search of Arcadia.

There are some amazing flight scenes as the Yak-52 is piloted across the globe, skimming above the Zombie infected masses.

Watch for the Flashing Red Light
In the movie, you will see a Flashing Red Light prominently displayed in the cockpit. For all the non-pilots out there, I guess the flashing red light means: Crash Landing on Building Imminent!

Don’t worry, the Flashing Red Light was a cockpit Add-On used for the movie only. The standard soviet trainer Yak-52 airplane is not equipped with such sophisticated and advanced technology!

Yak-52 Movie Shoot
You can see the Yak-52 during the Movie Shoot in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.

The Yak-52 was featured in various action scenes and also some static scenes including the Airplane Graveyard Scene with many abandoned aircraft.

3D Flight Scenes
The many flight scenes were produced using a combination of techniques including up close filming, Computer Generated Imagery (CGI), and 3D Special Effects.

Resident Evil: Afterlife is an incredible 3D movie using the latest special effects technology. The 3D Special Effects are truly stunning, and the YAK-52 flight scenes work extremely well in realistic 3D.

8 Foot Propeller
This Yak-52 has a custom, eight foot, black propeller with bright yellow painted tips. The propeller is imported from the U.K. and it provides fantastic performance for the airplane. During filming, Martin Mattes was asked to taxi the airplane, with the engine running, directly up to the special 3D Camera valued at over $500,000. Martin had to stop just short of the camera, to avoid destroying the advanced 3D camera and other video equipment. Martin explained the Yak-52 does not have the best brakes, but the director (Paul Anderson) wanted a really incredible shot for the 3D special effects. When you see the movie, you can feel how close Martin was able to bring the front of the roaring engine up to the stack of video equipment. Imagine almost $1 Million worth of video equipment carefully positioned just barely one metre away from the massive, powerful, spinning, propeller.

In the Director’s Tent
During filming of Resident Evil: Afterlife, you can see the activity in the Director’s Tent as the Yak-52 Action sequences are filmed and reviewed. The scenes are repeated over and over, until the director is satisfied he has captured just the right shot for the movie.

It was overcast in Oshawa during filming, and the Yak flight manoeuvres were very restricted due to the weather. However, Martin said he worked with the director, and also within legal flying limits, to get the best flight scenes possible. When you see the movie, you will be absolutely amazed with the final cut!

Soviet Trainer
The Yak-52 is a Soviet trainer aerobatic aircraft. The Soviet military uses the Yak-52 as the primary flight trainer for pilots. The natural progression for the pilots is to graduate from the Yak-52 to the incredible Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jet Trainer. Following a tour in the L-29, the Soviet military pilots will then be introduced to the top end Russian MiG Jet.

Yak-52 and L-29
It just so happens, that Martin Mattes of Bandit Airshows owns both a Yak-52, and also an L-29. You see both of these fantastic Soviet aircraft in Martin’s hangar during his video interview with Geoff about the making of Resident Evil: Afterlife.

$7,000 “Milla” Wig
Here you can see Martin Mattes dressed in a $7,000 Wig as Milla Jovovich. Martin jokes that they did not have enough money in the budget to make him look exactly like Milla. However, they sprayed out the grey hairs, and fitted him with a $7,000 “Milla” wig and fitted him with the same Jacket that Milla wears in the movie.

Milla Look-A-Like
After the make-up, wig, and costume, Martin was a “Milla Look-A-Like”, and ready to film the flight scenes in the Yak-52. At one point during filming, one of the crew had to smear some white paint on the cockpit glass to partially obscure or blur the view of Martin’s face. I guess the director Paul Anderson was not entirely convinced that Martin was a dead ringer for his beautiful wife Milla!

George Clooney?
Martin joked with Milla during filming that he thought he looked more like George Clooney instead of her. Milla howled with laughter, and she really enjoyed filming the scenes with both Martin and his fantastic YAK-52.

Thousands of still photos of the Yak-52 were also taken by the film crew. These photos of the Yak were taken from all angles, and they were then used for generating much of the CGI work needed to complete the flight action scenes. Even the Aircraft Graveyard Scene, showing many aircraft scattered around, was a composite of both CGI work and other special effects.

Fake Painted Red
For the movie, Martin’s Yak-52 had to be Red. During production, it was decided to “Fake Paint” the Yak using a temporary paint that would come off after a while. We see the Yak here being prepared for it’s beautiful Red appearance.

The Red colour scheme is particularly important in the movie. For fans of the very first Resident Evil movie, you will remember that Milla Jovovich (Alice) wore an Iconic Red Dress throughout the movie, and the matching Yak-52 colour fits perfect!

Since filming the movie, Martin had his Yak-52 painted for real, and it is now wearing a permanent red colour scheme to match its famous paint scheme from the movie.

Pitot Tube Optional?
The director even asked if the Pitot Tube could be removed to make the Yak look better, but Martin insisted the Pitot Tube was not an optional item on the airplane. As most pilots know, the Pitot Tube is a vital part of the aircraft, and absolutely necessary for the proper functioning of the critical flight instruments.

Learn To Fly!
After interviewing Martin Mattes, we were joined by Martin’s pilot friend Danny Richer. The editors of LearnToFly.ca and Martin and Danny had lunch together at the Brantford Airport, and there was one common theme. Martin and Danny encourage everyone to fly.

Both Martin and Danny are experienced aerobatic pilots, and they understand the excitement, fun and discipline of being a pilot. If you are looking for an exciting pursuit, get your Pilot’s license.

Editor, Geoff McKay
Pictured here, LearnToFly.ca Editor Geoff McKay takes to the cockpit of the Yak-52 Soviet Trainer.

The YAK is an incredible aircraft, and this specific Yak-52 is now a movie star. You can see this incredible aircraft in the Zombie Thriller “Resident Evil: Afterlife” starring Milla Jovovich and Ali Larter, and directed by Paul Anderson.

Will the Yak be Back?
Hopefully the Resident Evil movie franchise will continue to be a huge success. When the next Resident Evil movie is filmed, hopefully Milla (Alice) and Ali (Claire Redfield) will need the Yak again to save the Human race from the Zombies in another flying mission.

Martin Mattes of Bandit Airshows
When Martin Mattes of Bandit Airshows isn’t flying around fighting Zombies and imitating Milla Jovovich, he can be found at local Air Shows performing aerobatics in his Soviet Yak-52 Trainer and L-29 Delfin Jet.

Related Articles:

1. Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jet Trainer

T-28B and T-28C Trojan Aircraft

Danny Richer and his T-28B Trojan
LearnToFly.ca Editor, Geoff McKay receives the VIP tour from T-28B Trojan owner Danny Richer.

Danny Richer was at the Brantford Charity Air Show in Brantford, Ontario. Danny is the proud owner pilot of a North American Aviation (NAA) T-28B Trojan Aircraft. Danny’s vintage T-28B Trojan is an absolutely incredible aircraft!

Military Trainer
The North American Aviation T-28 Trojan is a piston engine military trainer aircraft. The NAA T-28 Trojan was used by both the United States Air Force (USAF) and also the United States Navy beginning in the 1950s. The T-28 Trojan was used as a Primary Trainer by the USAF, US Navy, and US Marine Corps through the 1950′s and 1960′s. The primary function of the T-28 was for the purpose of training student naval aviators.

Two Seat Tandem
The T-28 Trojan is a Two-Seat, Tandem Aircraft. Danny’s Trojan was built in 1956 and it was used by the Navy as a Trainer.

Very Solid Aircraft
Danny comments that “the T-28B was built as a very solid aircraft, and therefore will last a very long time”. The aircraft weight is about 8,500 pounds with two on board and fuel. It will cruise on average at about 200 knots, and it has a VNE of about 347 mph. The aircraft consumes fuel at the rate of 50 – 75 gallons per hour. The aircraft is rated for Plus 6 G’s and Minus 4 G’s.

Aerobatics
Danny Richer is an experienced Aerobatic pilot, and he will pull positive 4 G’s in his T-28B Trojan during loops and other aerobatic manoeuvres such as Cuban Eights.

Huge Flaps
Danny Richer and Geoff McKay stand in front of the huge, solid, T-28B Trojan. You can see the Huge Flaps in the background, and the wing height is incredible. Climbing into the cockpit of the T-28 requires several retractable “foot holds” or “steps” built into the fuselage to assist the pilot in mounting the wing and finally climbing into the cockpit. Once you are nestled into the cockpit, you really begin to sense the massive size of this trainer that is capable of aerobatic manoeuvres.

Paint Scheme
Behind Danny’s head, you can see the dark coloured stripe travelling from the engine exhaust and towards the back of the airplane across the top of the wing. This dark stripe is common on the T-28 Trojans to help camouflage the greasy residue that spews from the huge 1,425 hp (1,063 kW) Wright R-1820-9 Radial Engine that cranks the large 3-blade propeller.

Well into the 1980′s
The North American T-28B Trojan was a 1950′s military trainer that was extremely popular and reliable. The Trojan aircraft were used well into the 1980′s to train military pilots. Retired in the mid 80′s, this vintage aircraft is an impressive and awesome airplane to experience.

Interview with Danny Richer about his North American T-28B Trojan

Danny Richer with LearnToFly.ca Editor Geoff McKay at the Brantford Charity Air Show

Danny talks with Geoff about his vintage North American Aviation (NAA) T-28B Trojan Aircraft.

T-28B vs. T-28C
The North American T-28 Trojan was released with several different variants including the T-28B and T-28C models.

Geoff McKay meets up with Alfred Beam of Fort Erie, Ontario to view his North American T-28C Trojan model.

Alfred Beam and his T-28C
Alf flew his vintage T-28C at the Battle of Britain Midland Air Show in July 2010. Alf’s T-28C Trojan was a huge hit at the air show, and the crowd loved his vintage Navy Trainer.

Tail-hook
Alf explains the primary difference between the T-28B and the T-28C is the Tail-hook on the T-28C model. The Tail-hook was used for Air Craft Carrier Landings. In addition to the Tail-hook, the T-28C model also has a slightly shortened propeller blade. The T-28C became the primary trainer for the US Navy with the need to train Navy Pilots for Carrier landings.

Alfred Beam at the Controls
Alf is at the controls of his beautiful T-28C Trojan as he prepares to take-off before the crowd of spectators in Midland. There were no Air Craft Carriers nearby, but Alf’s meticulously restored aircraft has the necessary Tail-hook (C-Model) just in case!

50 Hours
Since acquiring his T-28C, Alf has accumulated about 50 hours of flight time as Pilot in Command (PIC) of this aircraft. His air show performance was really fantastic, and it was a very, very, windy day. Many of the pilots had difficulty with the strong cross-wind, but Alfred Beam executed a text-book take-off and landing as he perfectly corrected for the excessively windy conditions.

Navy Blue
The Navy Blue colour scheme of Alfred Beam’s T-28C Trojan is ideal for this Navy Trainer. With the C-Model being the US Navy’s preferred model of choice, the Navy colours suit the aircraft perfectly.

Intimidating Size
When you are up close to a North American T-28 Trojan, you are immediately impressed with the sheer size of this trainer aircraft. You can see how large, solid and rugged the huge T-28 really is.

Air Show Match Up
The next time you are at an Air Show, look for the North American Aviation (NAA) T-28 Trojan. Perhaps you will be lucky enough to see both Danny Richer with his T-28B and Alfred Beam with his T-28C at the same air show event.

Canadian Pilots
Danny Richer and Alfred Beam are both Canadian pilots, and they own and fly magnificent aircraft representing important parts of Aviation history.

Watch for these Canadian owned Aircraft and their talented pilots.

Related Articles:

1. North American B-25 Mitchell Bomber
2. Brantford Air Show 2010
3. Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jet Trainer

Martin Mattes of Bandit Airshows

L-29 Delfin Jet
What an incredible Jet!

This spectacular Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jet is owned by Retired Captain Martin “Bandit” Mattes of Bandit Airshows.

LearnToFly.ca Editors, Greg McKay and Geoff McKay, met up with Martin Mattes at the Brantford Air Show 2010.

Great Guy!
Martin is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet. He’s an experienced Aerobatic Pilot with an incredible passion for aviation, fast aircraft, and advanced aerobatics. Having met Martin before, at the Midland Air Show, I had already heard about Martin’s incredible L-29 Delfin Jet. And, I was looking forward to seeing his L-29 Jet up close!

Only 3 in Canada!
There are only three Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jets flying in Canada. I had already met with Jeff “Biscuit” Lewis and Richard “COOP” Cooper of Viper North to see their L-29 up close and personal. But, this was my first time seeing Martin Mattes’ L-29 Delfin Jet.

Personal Tour
Martin took us to his Hangar in Brantford, and pulled out the L-29 to give us a personal tour and to demonstrate his advanced fighter aircraft.

LearnToFly.ca Editor Geoff McKay takes to the cockpit of this high performance Russian Fighter Jet.

Primary Jet Trainer
The L-29 Delfin is a Czechoslovakian built aircraft used by Russia as their primary Jet Trainer. The L-29 became the standard trainer in all Eastern-bloc counties except Poland, and it’s still being flown in a number of third world countries as a ground attack strike aircraft today.

Two Seat Fighter Aircraft
The L-29 is a two seat fighter jet aircraft. The Soviet Air Force utilized over 2,000 of these aircraft in their military. The Czech Air Force maintained an additional 400 more L-29 Jet fighters. L-29 Jets were also supplied to Bulgaria, East Germany, Hungary and Romania. The L-29 Delfin was a straightforward, rugged and easy to fly, jet aircraft. This made it ideal as both a primary jet trainer and also as an advanced combat/weapons trainer.

L-29 Delfin Cockpit
Surprisingly, the cockpit gauges and instrumentation of the L-29 Delfin seemed somewhat utilitarian rather than fancy. For such a high-performance jet, you might expect a more advanced looking cockpit. For the vintage of the aircraft, the cockpit was extremely advanced and modern in it’s day. However, with today’s “Glass Cockpits” becoming the norm, it was quite incredible to see this “old school” cockpit in this high performance jet.

Climbing inside the cockpit felt almost surreal. This was an actual Russian Jet, flown by a Russian Military pilot during the days of the cold war.

Performance!
When asking Martin about the performance of his L-29, he calmly and casually explains the jet is a “Dream to Fly”, with a top speed of .7 Mach or 700 kilometres per hour. (Remember, an aircraft is flying at Mach 1 if its speed is equal to the speed of sound.)

Martin goes on to explain the L-29 can handle G-Force loads of Plus 8 G’s and Minus 5 G’s, although he modestly emphasizes he has only had it up to Plus 6 G’s.

Interview with Martin Mattes and his L-29 Delfin 

Captain Martin “Bandit” Mattes with LearnToFly.ca Editor Geoff McKay 

Martin talks with Geoff to explain the performance characteristics of the Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jet Trainer. Martin’s refreshingly quiet and calm demeanour is an incredible contrast to the jet he flies.

L-29 Delfin Jet Takeoff!
Here you see Martin’s Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jet takeoff from the Brantford Airport. The L-29 leaps into the air above the Harvard Aircraft you see in the foreground.

Martin’s L-29 was a huge hit at the Brantford Charity Air Show 2010. The crowd loved the roar of the jet engines, and the impressive performance of this Russian Fighter Jet. Considering there are only three flying in Canada, it was a very special treat for the entire crowd at the Air Show.

Natalia Gynku
Amazingly, the actual L-29 Delfin Jet owned by Martin Mattes was previously flown by Russian Pilot and Female Model Natalia Gynku.

Look closely at these L-29 pictures, and painted on the side of the L-29 fuselage, just above and in front of the large 77 number, you will see “Natalia Gynku”.

Natalia Gynku is a well known Russian fashion model who works photo shoots for fashion, glamour and beauty magazines. (www.gynku.ru)

Natalia Gynku is the only female Russian Model who is also a jet Pilot having flown advanced military jets including the L-29 Delfin, (the actual same aircraft now registered to Martin Mattes), and also the popular Russian Yak-52. Incredibly, Martin Mattes of Bandit Airshows also owns his very own Yak-52 Soviet Trainer Aircraft!

L-29 Delfin Landing
Pictured here, we see Martin’s Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin Jet landing at the Brantford Airport.

Yes, this Soviet Fighter Jet was previously flown by Russian Female Model and Pilot Natalia Gynku. However, we now find it in the capable hands of Captain (Retired) Martin “Bandit” Mattes of Bandit Airshows of Brantford, Ontario, Canada.

For more details, visit Martin’s website:
www.BanditAirShows.com

Martin is a great guy, and an incredible pilot who owns some amazing aircraft! Watch for Bandit Airshows at your next Air Show event.

Related Articles:

1. Resident Evil Afterlife: Yak-52 Pilot
2. Battle of Britain Midland Air Show
3. Brantford Air Show 2010

The Harvard – A Canadian Aviation Icon

The Canadian Harvard Aircraft
A favourite at the Canadian Aviation Expo (2008) was the Canadian Harvard Aircraft. Based in Tillsonburg, Ontario, the Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association (CHAA) maintains a fleet of vintage Harvard Aircraft beautifully restored and maintained.

The CHAA is a volunteer organization started 1985 at a small grass airstrip in Woodstock, Ontario. These Harvard lovers help keep the legend of the Harvard alive.
CHAA Website: www.Harvards.com

The HARVARD
Also known as the AT-6, Yale, Texan, SNJ, or Wirraway based on the same airframe, the Harvard is always a crowd pleaser. The Harvard is one of the best known training aircraft in the world.

Supersonic Propeller Tips
The 9 foot propeller is powered by a massive radial engine causing the propeller tips to go supersonic causing an unforgettable roar.

The Harvard Aircraft was an advanced trainer used by 137,000 aircrew who came from all over the world to Learn to Fly in Canada as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.

The Harvard filled the gap between the elementary trainers of the day like the D.H. TIGER MOTH, and the high performance fighters such as the Spitfires, Hurricanes and Mustangs. The Harvard Aircraft is fully aerobatic and pleasant to fly, but student pilots were taught to respect the aircraft if they wished to survive.

Harvard MK II Specifications
Powerplant: Supercharged PRATT & WHITNEY R-1340-S3H1
Engine Type:  Radial Piston Engine
Power: 600 hp @ 2250 rpm
Maximum Speed: 156 knots
Initial Rate of Climb: 1,359 ft/minute
Range: 740 miles
Endurance: 8 hours
Service Ceiling: 22,000 ft.
Fuel Consumption: 30 gallons/ hr @ 10,000 ft.
Weight: 3,995 lbs empty
Maximum Take-off Weight: 5,750 lbs.
Length: 28′ 11″
Span: 42′
Height: 9′ 9″

The Harvards in Formation Flight
The sight of a single, restored, vintage Harvard airplane is impressive. However, to see a fleet of Harvard aircraft fly by in formation flight is absolutely amazing. The sound is incredible as you hear the combined drone of a half dozen Harvard airplanes in low and slow flight.

The Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association (CHAA) has a fleet of restored Harvard airplanes. These vintage aircraft are meticulously and lovingly restored to flight condition and maintained by the qualified mechanics at CHAA. Most are ‘In Service’, and flown by experienced CHAA Pilots to the delight of aviation enthusiasts across Canada.

These flying machines are a piece of Canada’s aviation history.

CHAA Harvard Fleet:

• C-FHWX – Harvard Mk. II
• C-FMTX – Harvard Mk. II
• C-FRWN – Harvard Mk. II
• C-FMKA – Harvard Mk. II
• C-FNDB – Harvard Mk. IIb
• C-FRZW – Harvard Mk. IV
• CF-UFZ – Harvard Mk. IV
• C-FWPK – Harvard Mk IV

Many thanks to the hard workers at the CHAA for their devoted work on maintaining Canada’s fleet of vintage Harvard Aircraft!

Related Articles:

1. Waterloo Air Show 2011
2. Canadian Aviation Expo 2010 Hamilton
3. Canadian Aviation Expo 2011 Hamilton Air Show

“Catcher in the Sky”

The Perfect Trainer
The new Cessna 162 Skycatcher is the ideal trainer. It’s simple to fly, and very responsive. With fingertip control, the student pilot will quickly learn to fly, and is certain to fall in love with this docile training airplane.

Cessna 162
The 162 model number should immediately give you an good impression of this great airplane. Many pilots learned to fly in the older Cessna 150 and Cessna 152 airplanes. The 150 & 152 models were both two-seat tricycle gear airplanes perfect for flight training. The Cessna 172 is a larger four-seat tricycle gear airplane common for flight training today. Now, we have something in-between. The Cessna 162 is a modern version of a two-seat tricycle gear training airplane.

At first glance, the Skycatcher is immediately recognized as a ”fun-to-fly” airplane. It’s the ideal, economical flight training aircraft. Student pilots will easily achieve the joy of flight in this modern trainer as they quickly learn to fly.

Fun to fly, and Looks Great!
The Cessna 162 Skycatcher looks as good as it feels to fly. This high-wing, tricycle gear trainer comfortably seats two. The modern interior is beautifully designed, with an open and wide view for near unobstructed visibility. The Skycatcher boasts the very latest technology with great affordability and easy flyability. The Skycatcher is pure fun. It’s easy to fly, and most importantly, easy to land. The Cessna 162 has two-seat capacity including the pilot. Ample luggage space is provided aft of the seats. Left hand and right hand gull-wing doors allow easy access for both the pilot and passenger as they swing upward.

For Flight Training, or Personal Use:

• Side by side, Two Seat
• High Wing (Strut braced)
• Gull-Wing Door Design for easy entry
• Incredible Visibility
• Tricycle Gear
• LSA (Light Sport Aircraft)
• Spacious 44 inch cabin room
• 30 foot wingspan
• 118 knot max speed
• 490 lb useful load
• 898 ft/min climb rate

Skycatcher Panel
The modern glass panel and advanced avionics make the Cessna 162 the perfect trainer for new pilots. The controls are designed for the new generation of aviator, and the airplane is easily manoeuvred using the ”single hand control” panel mounted yokes. The Cessna 162 will be equipped for day and night VFR flying only. The standard panel will include the Garmin G300 EFIS, Garmin SL40 communications radio, GTX327 transponder, and a 121.5 MHz ELT. Flight data information will be displayed on the G300 in a single, split-screen combination Primary Flight Display (PFD) and Multi-Function Display (MFD). Upgrade options include a second full-screen display, Autopilot and advanced audio panel.

LSA
The LSA or Light Sport Aircraft is a relatively new category of sport aircraft. Airplanes that qualify as an LSA may be operated by pilots with a Sport Pilot Certificate. LSA aircraft may also be flown by pilots with higher ratings such as a Private, recreational or higher pilot certification.

The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) defines a light-sport aircraft with very specific requirements.

LSA Requirements:

• Maximum gross takeoff weight of not more than 1,320 pounds (600 kg)
• Maximum airspeed in level flight of 120 knots (220 km/h, or 140 mph)
• Maximum stall speed of 45 knots (83 km/h, or 42 mph)
• Either one or Two seats
• Fixed undercarriage
• Fixed-Pitch or ground adjustable propeller
• Single engine (electric motor or reciprocating engine)

Powerplant
The Cessna 162 Skycatcher is powered by the 100hp Teledyne Continental O-200D flat four engine.

Cessna 162 Skycatcher Specifications:

• Two-Seat: One Pilot and One Passenger (Side by Side)
• Maximum Cruise Speed 118 ktas (219 km/h)
• Cruise speed: 112 knots (207 km/h)
• Certified Ceiling 14,625 ft (4,458 m)
• Takeoff Distance 1,138 ft (347 m)
• Landing Distance 1,370 ft (418 m)
• Rate of Climb at Sea Level 898 fpm (274 mpm)
• Range 400 nm (741 km)
• Ramp Weight 1,324 lb (601 kg)
• Takeoff Weight 1,320 lb (599 kg)
• Landing Weight 1,320 lb (599 kg)
• Zero Fuel Weight N/A lb (N/A kg)
• Usable Fuel Capacity 144 lb (65 kg)
• Typically-Equipped Empty Weight 834 lb (378 kg)
• Useful Load 490 lb (222 kg)
• Maximum Payload 486 lb (220 kg)
• Full-Fuel Payload 346 lb (157 kg)
• Height 7 ft 4 in (2.24 m)
• Length 22 ft 1 in (6.73 m)
• Wingspan 30 ft 5 in (9.26 m)
• Cabin Height 47 in (1.19 m)
• Cabin Width 43.6 in (1.11 m)
• Cabin Length 7 ft 7 in (2.32 m)
• Standard Seating Capacity 2
• Baggage Capacity 22 cubic ft (0.6 cubic m)

Simple Landings
Landings in the Cessna 162 Skycatcher are simple! Approaches can be flown as slow as 50 knots with full flaps. The slow ground speed and responsiveness of the 162 are great benefits when practicing landings as a student pilot. The landing roll can be as short as 650 feet, and the slow approach with reasonable flare makes for perfect landings almost every time.

With more than 1,000 Skycatchers already on order, Cessna has scored a big win in the General Aviation LSA category. The Cessna 162 Skycatcher is the perfect trainer or personal use aircraft. Advanced, modern, fun, and easy to fly!

Thanks for reading.