Taking our Lockwood AirCam Gen3 to FL 100

[@garydoub7463]

Looks like that machine is at 9,000 feet , wow !!

[@robertoler3795]

well done Robert DPE test pilot Seattle

[@normanscottsailing480]

did you fly with your flaps down for a reason

[@everelairborne]

Yes, to increase the descend rate. It was cold up there ;-)

[@24fletchdog]

Can those do loops

[@everelairborne]

You are welcome to try, but not me :-)

[@victoriask]

Can you tell me more about your T3 tailwheel install? What model is that? I want to put the same setup on my Aircam

[@everelairborne]

It's a custom version for the AirCam by Dan Default. You can contact him at supercubsnorth.com/pages/about-us. You may also try Airframes Alaska

[@EricSimoneau]

Just an amazing video! Thanks for taking the time to share it. Quick question if you don't mind... what speeds do the Aircam comfortably cruise at? I have read they are best when flying between 60-80 mph, but have you had a chance to see how the plane performs in the 80-100 range? I ask only because I love the Aircam (and am interested in building one) and I'm interested in both low and slow, but also as a slowish cross country machine and I am just curious how the plane does in the 80-100 mph range if you know :) Thanks again!

[@everelairborne]

Hi Eric. The AirCam will cruise just fine in the 80 - 100 mph range. However, above 85 you need to be in smooth air (yellow range is 85 to 110 mph), which is rare in the summer due to thermal activity. Also, in the 80 to 100 range it's a lot more comfortable with the full canopy on, especially in the second and third seat due to the highly turbulent air stream. In any case you will burn more fuel to overcome the higher drag. Every plane has its mission. The AirCam's mission is to go low and slow over unlandable terrain and have the safety of the 2nd engine with impressive single engine climb performance in case of an engine out. You pay for that peace of mind and the unmatched, cinematic, unobstructed view. The AirCam is a lot more expensive than most backcountry STOL aircraft that can also go low and slow. The only reason for me to test it at FL 100 and higher is because I want to go low and slow in the mountains, and I want to have the same kind of STOL performance at high density altitudes of 10,000 to 15,000 ft than your average SuperCub has at sea level. Lastly, keep in mind, the aircraft has no heating. So, while you can easily cruise at FL100+ in smooth air , it will be cold :-).

[@EricSimoneau]

@@everelairborne Thanks for information. Extremely helpful and really appreciated! 😊

[@tonosancheza]

Hi. Thanks for the video! Just wondering what engines you have and what climb rates did you get in fpm at the surface and at 10K?

[@everelairborne]

The engines are Edge Performance EP914Ti. Edge Performance takes a stock Rotax 914, then they add their own turbo charger, an intercooler and their electronic ignition system. Each engine produces about 126 hp. Sea level climb rate is well in excess of 2,000 fpm. The takeoff experience is similar to a winch launch in a glider.