Saturday, May 19, 2007

Storch - Flying Slow

I was at Paine Field in Everett, Washington earlier today and noticed an airplane flying super-slow on approach to landing. There was a fairly good headwind and the plane appeared to be going about as fast as you could ride a bicycle.

I learned it was a replica of a "Storch" (Stork) first built in the 1930's. It has a stall speed of 32 mph according to Ping's Storch Page

I looked at the Paine Field weather for this morning and there were 23 mph south winds, meaning that Storch could have been flying with a ground speed of something over 9 mph.

Tuesday, May 01, 2007

Scenic Biplane Rides at Boeing Field in Seattle

Olde Thyme Aviation operates Scenic Biplane Rides in authentic restored antique biplanes at Boeing Field in Seattle.

Prices are $125 and up for two people. Parachutes included...unfortunately no aerobatics due to altitude restrictions.

They operate out of the Museum of Flight 10 AM to 5 PM on clear days. You can make an appointment on the day of the flight by calling 206-730-1412.

If you'd prefer to fly your own biplane they have a fully restored 1944 Stearman for sale for $125,000.