Plane and Pilot

JULY 9, 2024

The unique H-tail reduces the left-turning tendencies during takeoff while also minimizing the weathervaning effect prevalent in crosswinds. While the original Ercoupes lacked a rudder and rudder pedals entirely, this example has had them installed as an aftermarket kit, making the airplane a bit more familiar for newcomers to fly.

Rudder 84

Rudder Airplanes Crosswind Tail 84

Airspeed Junkie

AUGUST 2, 2024

Cockpit and Avionics Sitting in the cockpit of a Cessna 172, one is immediately struck by the advanced Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite that dominates the instrument panel. First introduced in 2005, this all-glass cockpit revolutionized the flying experience for pilots by providing a comprehensive and intuitive interface.

Knot 52

Knot Cockpit Pilot Gross Weight 52

Air Facts

APRIL 10, 2024

There are pictures of me in the back cockpit of my dad’s war surplus PT-19 and the rear seat of a rented PA-12. Rudder stomping landings in the Cessna 180 that hated to stay in a straight line on the ground. And then the landing near Palm Springs when I became a test pilot for the 182RG crosswind component.

General Aviation 52

General Aviation Pilot Cockpit VOR 52

Air Facts

SEPTEMBER 13, 2024

NTSB ERA22LA169 describes a funny engine noise that prompted an earlier than planned turn to crosswind for an anticipated return to the airport. When power was added, there were brief pitch oscillations before the plane departed the left side of the runway, as if P-factor and lack of right rudder input were present.

Runway 66

Runway Gross Weight Airplanes Pilot 66

Plane and Pilot

SEPTEMBER 15, 2024

The J-4’s cockpit is wider than the more common J-3, and the second generation brought about the replacement of the open cowl with exposed exhaust ports with a fully enclosed cowl. I watched the stick flutter to and fro in sync with the rudder pedals as Wilkins fought to maintain the centerline, all the while pushing in the throttle.

Runway 70

Runway Crosswind Rudder Approach 70