And now for something completely different. Have you ever seen an airplane with wheels water ski along the water like this? Please don't try this at home people! I know you are probably wondering why anyone would want to do this? In this case a few friends of mine from New Mexico (yes New Mexicans are crazy) did this simply to put on a show. In the real world there are situations where being able to water ski an airplane with wheels is needed. Many bush pilots in Alaska use this hydroplaning technique to land on short gravel bars in rivers or near beach areas. Pilots use the water as an "extended runway" by touching down on the water prior to the gravel bar and as they approach the bar they bleed off the speed enough to remain on the surface of the water until they hit the edge of the bar. Like comedians the life of a bush pilot is all about timing and the moment they hit the land they pull the power and jam on the brakes. Taking off is the reverse, of course, but the pilot better hope he/she has enough speed as they leave the gravel bar or they are going for a submarine ride.
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment