SuperSTOL Update (2015-01)

On December 17, 2014, the SuperSTOL made its maiden flight after thorough preparation. The pilot conducted several short hops, confirmed its controllability, and completed multiple circuits. The aircraft's performance, especially in slow flight, was remarkable, with take-offs in three seconds and manageable touch downs at low speeds. The pilot plans to accumulate more flying hours for further exploration.

Tilt Box

This device measures the relative angle between surfaces, perfect for adjusting pitch angles on propellers. It has a 90° range, 0.05° resolution, and features a hold button. With rare earth magnets for stability, it is compact and retails for $24.95 until April 28, then increases to $34.95.

Hot, High and Humid – Safety Corner

Aircraft performance is greatly influenced by density altitude, impacting take-off distance and rate of climb. Manufacturer claims are based on standard conditions, but real-world factors like temperature and altitude can double take-off distance and reduce climb rates. Other considerations include airfield conditions, wind, and angle of climb. Understanding density altitude is crucial for maximizing aircraft performance.