Some thoughs on the NATS Experience

[John Ferrell]

My observations are:
It would cost a bit more for me, engines and fuel are easily accessable to where I live.
If you burn a gallon a day in practice, you will need more than one battery pack.

Fuel and vibration problems are gone. A lot of maintenance goes away with vibration. 
There are a different set of safety problems. Jason physically unplugs the power rather than use a switch. I think the same was true for Gerry & Marty. The LiPo batterries need to be treated with respect. There will be accidents involving them. 

The electrics are not quieter than most pattern airplanes. 

Maintenance experience has not been determined. The gear train does not sound happy in a snap. What will be the failure mode of the batteries and the motors?

I think they are going to take a pretty good chunk of the market. 

If a rule change were made to allow the batteries to be removed for weight limits it could make a big difference. I have only heard rumors about this. 

John Ferrell    
http://DixieNC.US

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: vicenterc at comcast.net 
  To: discussion at nsrca.org ; discussion at nsrca.org 
  Cc: Don Szczur 
  Sent: Monday, July 26, 2004 8:11 PM
  Subject: Re: Some thoughs on the NATS Experience


  Is electric pattern planes a realistic option for the average pilot?

  Thanks,

  Vicente Bortone


    -------------- Original message -------------- 

    Anyone interested in some random thoughts, experiences, etc? I have some and would be happy to share if there is interest.
    Don
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