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Flight Simulation

A twin-engine BE-58 lands on an aircraft carrier.

A twin engine Baron Be-58 on approach for the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford
A twin engine Baron Be-58 on approach for the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford

Here’s a virtual flight made on a flight simulator using Microsoft Flight Simulator software. A Beech Baron BE-58 left Key West Airport, Florida (KEYW) a few minutes ago, heading for the CVN78 USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier.   

In the real world, this just isn’t done. But in flight simulation, anything goes. Above, the aircraft completes the downwind leg of its approach to the carrier.

On stabilized final with full flaps and landing gear down, the focus is on the approach angle and stall speed, which stands at 73 knots.

Beech Baron Be-58 on final for the Gerarld R. Ford aircraft carrier
Beech Baron Be-58 on final for the Gerarld R. Ford aircraft carrier

You can’t rely on a cable to stop the plane, so you need the lowest possible speed and good brakes to land it on the 333-meter bridge. Below, the Beech attracts a little curiosity as it circulates to find temporary parking.

Taxiing to park the BE-58 on the aircraft carrier
Taxiing to park the BE-58 on the aircraft carrier

The virtual pilot then parks the aircraft for the next day.

Parked for the night on the CVN78 Gerald R. Ford
Parked for the night on the CVN78 Gerald R. Ford

The next two images show the aircraft carrier facing a storm the following evening, with winds blowing at 35 knots during a thunderstorm. On deck, the first aircraft on the left is our Baron Be-58, holding its own. If the storm doesn’t blow it overboard, the military will soon!

The aircraft carrier CVN 78 Gerald R. Ford in a storm
The aircraft carrier CVN 78 Gerald R. Ford in a storm
The aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford near Key West
The aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford near Key West

Click on the link for other challenging virtual flights on my blog.

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Flight Simulation

Grosse-Île airstrip and MSFS 2020.

Close-up view of the Grosse-île runway and the area with the Microsoft flight simulator (MSFS 2020).
Close-up view of the Grosse-île runway and the area with the Microsoft flight simulator (MSFS 2020).

It took the Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS 2020) for me to discover this landing strip on Grosse-Île. Even the Canada Flight Supplement (CFS) from Nav Canada does not mention it.

Decades ago, Canadian authorities used this island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River as a quarantine site for immigrants arriving in Canada. Many Irish people, among others, made an obligatory stop on this strip of land before being allowed to continue their journey to Canada.

At one time, a section of the island was reserved for Canadian and American researchers for their top secret research on Anthrax.The most amazing thing about reading the article is realizing that the entire production of this bacteriological weapon (439 liters) was mixed with formaldehyde and put in barrels that were dumped somewhere in the St. Lawrence River when it was decided that it would no longer be useful, as the Second World War took a turn in favor of the Allies. It seems to me that formaldehyde does not prevent barrels from rusting, but hey… back to the point.

Today, tourists can visit Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site during the summer months using the services of Croisières Lachance, located in Berthier-sur-Mer.

Where is Grosse-Île located? In the province of Quebec, a little east of Quebec City. It is one of the many islands that you can fly over once you have left Île d’Orléans behind. Below, a screenshot from Google Maps.

Grosse-Île in Quebec on Google Maps.
Grosse-Île in Quebec on Google Maps.

The satellite image below clearly shows that this is not an invention. Microsoft designates this runway as CYMN Montmagny: a mistake that one can easily live with, since by giving an official code to this Grosse-Île runway, the pilot can use it as a navigation point in his GPS.

Satellite view of Grosse-Île and its runway.
Satellite view of Grosse-Île and its runway.

So, let’s use a small Cessna in US Coast Guard colors to make a virtual flight from Quebec City airport (CYQB) to Grosse-Île (CYMN). It was a bit chilly on this February day in Quebec City, so I decided to transport us to July for this flight, adding a few cumuliform clouds in the process.

Leaving Quebec City for Grosse-Île with MSFS 2020.
Leaving Quebec City for Grosse-Île with MSFS 2020.

This short flight will allow us to fly over Île d’Orléans, Île Madame (owned by Laurent Beaudoin, former major shareholder of Bombardier), Île au Ruau  (purchased in 2019 by the rich owner of the Gildan empire) to finally arrive at Grosse-Île.

Approaching Grosse-Île over the St Lawrence Seaway with the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.
Approaching Grosse-Île over the St Lawrence Seaway with the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.

The picture below shows the aircraft on a right base for the Grosse-Île runway. I do not know the official dimensions of this dirt airstrip, but it can easily accept a Cessna aircraft such as ours.

Cessna in base for the Grosse-Île runway with the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.
Cessna in base for the Grosse-Île runway with the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.

Below, the aircraft is on final for the runway.

On final for the Grosse-Île runway.
On final for the Grosse-Île runway.

A final screenshot shows the Cessna taxiing down the runway after landing. As you can see, the runway can accommodate much larger aircraft. If you want to make a real flight to this island, find out beforehand about the condition of the runway and the restrictions surrounding its use by visiting pilots.

Cessna aircraft on Grosse-Île after the landing.
Cessna aircraft on Grosse-Île after the landing.

Click on the link for more flight simulation experiences on my blog.

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Flight Simulation

Short Landings in Flight Simulation with MSFS 2020

On approach for Île d'Orléans.
On approach for Île d’Orléans.

Today’s flight consists of two virtual short landings using the MSFS 2020 flight simulator (or as some call it, FS2020). We will be landing on Île d’Orléans and on the Battlefields Park.

First of all, I admit that the Cessna 170B’s windows are dirty. For realism, the designer Carenado left a little dirt here and there to show the wear and tear of this very old aircraft.

The picture above shows Île d’Orléans as seen from the Cessna. Since there is no landing strip but a golf club in the area, we will use the open fairways to land the aircraft. If there is a golfer on the course, I will open the window and yell, as is customary, “Fore!” (Falling Object Returning to Earth).

On final for Île d'Orléans
On final for Île d’Orléans

We are established on final for the small portion of open ground ahead. With 40 degrees of flaps, the stall speed is particularly low and the landing should not be too difficult.

On Île d'Orléans ready for take-off.
On Île d’Orléans ready for take-off.

Although the available strip was not very wide, it was long enough for the landing, the taxiing and the maneuvering to turn the aircraft 180 degrees for its take-off to Quebec City.

Airborne from Île d'Orléans with a Cessna 170B
Airborne from Île d’Orléans with a Cessna 170B

Back in the air, direction Quebec City. The take-off on soft ground requires about 20 degrees of flaps.

Enroute towards Quebec City.
Enroute towards Quebec City.

Quebec City is in sight. In the Cessna C-170B I flew in 1981 across Canada from St-Jean-sur-Richelieu to Edmonton, Alberta, there was no modern navigation aid installed on board as in the photo above, where the GPS helps the pilot find his way. The flight was flown using 14 VFR charts and nothing more. (If you are interested, click to read more about real-life flying stories on my blog).

Hôtel le Concorde and its revolving restaurant, visible on the right.
Hôtel le Concorde and its revolving restaurant, visible on the right.

We are now above the Plains of Abraham. On the picture above, on the right, you can see the Hotel le Concorde and its revolving restaurant. We will possibly disturb the quiet atmosphere of the meal as we fly by…

The MNBAQ and the Battlefields Park are in sight.
The MNBAQ and the Battlefields Park are in sight.

Above, straight ahead, the gray buildings represent a portion of the Musée National des Beaux-Arts de Québec (MNBAQ). A little further on is the open area of the Battlefields Park. In 1928, Lindbergh landed on that field to bring badly needed medicine for his friend Floyd Bennett. Can we normally land on the Battlefields Park, in the heart of Quebec City? Of course not. But that’s the beauty of a flight simulation; you can do whatever you want!

Cessna 170B on the Battlefields Park in Québec City.
Cessna 170B on the Battlefields Park in Québec City.

Once landed, the aircraft is allowed to decelerate gradually and then turned 180 degrees for the next takeoff. When winds are light, there is no need to worry about the direction of the takeoff.

Aerial view of Battlefield Parks with the Cessna 170B under MSFS 2020.
Aerial view of Battlefield Parks with the Cessna 170B under MSFS 2020.

Above, an aerial view of the Battlefields Park, with the virtual Cessna C-170B ready to take off again.

Partial view of Quebec City in flight simulation with MSFS 2020
Partial view of Quebec City in flight simulation with MSFS 2020

One last picture, this time with some additional buildings. The realism of the virtual scene with FS2020 is amazing!

I hope you enjoyed these two short flights. Whether you use the short landing technique for the Battlefields Park is really up to you, as there is enough space for a normal landing. But it is good to practice landing in the shortest distance possible. You never know when your engine will quit!

You can click on the following link for other challenging virtual flights   on my blog.

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Flight Simulation

Challenging virtual flight in Idaho using MSFS 2020

MSFS 2020 map for the flight 3U2 to C53 in United States
MSFS 2020 map for the flight 3U2 to C53 in United States

The challenging virtual flight is from Johnson Creek Airport (3U2) to the Lower Loon Creek Airstrip (C53) in the United States, using the MSFS 2020 flight simulator. The software map shows the type of aircraft chosen, a CubCrafters X Cub on floats, as well as the trajectory over the Idaho mountains.

The idea of using an amphibious aircraft for this flight is a bit far-fetched, but the goal is to make the pilot’s job a little more difficult by adding weight to the aircraft.

Johnson Creek (Yellow Pine) airport 3U2 with MSFS 2020
Johnson Creek (Yellow Pine) airport 3U2 with MSFS 2020

Johnson Creek Airport (3U2) is a creation of Creative Mesh. It is charming, with tents here and there planted near the planes. The runway is 3480 feet long by 150 feet wide. It is oriented on a 17/35 axis and still quite high at 4960 feet above sea level (MSL).

Amphibian CubCrafters X Cub ready for departure at the Johnson Creek 3U2 virtual airport with MSFS 2020.
Amphibian CubCrafters X Cub ready for departure at the Johnson Creek 3U2 virtual airport with MSFS 2020.

Given the departure altitude, one must not forget to adjust the air/fuel mixture so as not to lose power on takeoff, especially since there is a mountain at the end of the runway and the floats increase the weight of this small aircraft. The air is also thinner as the flight takes place in summer and at a high altitude; this represents another obstacle to the aircraft’s performance.

Avoiding obstacles after take-off from the 3U2 Johnson Creek virtual airport using MSFS 2020.
Avoiding obstacles after take-off from the 3U2 Johnson Creek virtual airport using MSFS 2020.

The mountains near the runway present a significant obstacle. The virtual pilot must use the best possible angle of climb without worrying about the route recommended by the GPS. The flaps are kept slightly extended during the initial climb.

Flying over the Idaho mountains in flight simulation with MSFS 2020.
Flying over the Idaho mountains in flight simulation with MSFS 2020.

Once at a safe altitude and back on the GPS suggested route, the view of Idaho’s spectacular mountains is more enjoyable. Throughout the climb, the air-fuel mixture and altimeter (“B” on MSFS 2020) have to be adjusted.

CubCrafters X Cub floatplane over the Idaho mountains in flight simulation MSFS 2020
CubCrafters X Cub floatplane over the Idaho mountains in flight simulation MSFS 2020

An altitude of almost 10,000 feet ASL makes it possible to fly over the mountains without risk of collision.

Descending in the valley towards the ID8 Marble Creek airport in Idaho in fligh simulation.
Descending in the valley towards the ID8 Marble Creek airport in Idaho in fligh simulation.

At the right moment, when the small surrounding airports and the river appear on the GPS, we leave our GPS road, until now in straight line, and we align in the valley to fly over the river until our destination, avoiding the surrounding mountains. In the photo above, the descent has already begun, with a necessary gradual adjustment of the air-fuel mixture.

Flying over the (ID8) Marble Creek airport in Idaho using the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.
Flying over the (ID8) Marble Creek airport in Idaho using the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.

We fly over a first small airport. The picture above shows the planes parked on the runway of Marble Creek airport (ID8), which dimension is 1160 x 20 feet. For those which would be interested in trying a landing there, the orientation of the runway is 03/21 and the altitude of 4662 feet MSL.

Flying over the 2U8 Thomas Creek Airport in Idaho using the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.
Flying over the 2U8 Thomas Creek Airport in Idaho using the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.

On the way towards our final destination, we also fly at low altitude over the Thomas Creek (2U8).

Following the river towards the C53 Lower Loon Creek airstrip using the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.
Following the river towards the C53 Lower Loon Creek airstrip using the MSFS 2020 flight simulator.

The mountains on either side of the river require close attention, as the poor performance of a small aircraft equipped with floats does not allow for easy correction of navigational errors.

By the time the runway suddenly becomes visible, the plane will not be on course but 90 degrees off the ideal course. It will be necessary to quickly turn left into the valley, make a fairly sharp 180-degree turn to the right to avoid the mountains, and then get back on course to land. It is only at this point that the landing gear will be extended.

On final for Lower Loon Creek airstrip with MSFS 2020
On final for Lower Loon Creek airstrip with MSFS 2020

The photo above shows the aircraft on final for the Lower Loon Creek dirt and grass runway (C53). It is located at 4084 feet MSL and is only 1200 feet long by 25 feet wide. Note that the approach should be made on runway 16 when possible.

Amphibian CubCrafters X Cub rolling down the C53 Lower Loon Creek airstrip in Idaho after landing.
Amphibian CubCrafters X Cub rolling down the C53 Lower Loon Creek airstrip in Idaho after landing.

As always, a stabilized aircraft on final makes landing easier, regardless of the conditions.

Amphibian CubCrafters X Cub parked at the C53 Lower Loon Creek airstrip using MSFS 2020 flight simulator.
Amphibian CubCrafters X Cub parked at the C53 Lower Loon Creek airstrip using MSFS 2020 flight simulator.

We park the plane and rest a bit. Today, there is no one else here. But that’s not always the case in real life, as this video of a landing at Lower Loon Creek shows it.

Click on the link for more challenging virtual flights on my blog.

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Flight Simulation

The treacherous Launumu short sloped runway in Papua New Guinea.

An Air Saguenay DHC-3 Otter has made it from Québec to Kokoda, in Papua New Guinea. It is expected to work around the remote mountain airfields for a while.

The Air Saguenay Otter is taxiing for the Kokoda runway towards Launumu in Papua New Guinea.
The Air Saguenay Otter is taxiing for the Kokoda runway towards Launumu in Papua New Guinea.

Today, the Otter heads for Launumu, a mountain airfield that is at an elevation of 5082 ft asl and 1200 feet long.

The Air Saguenay Otter departing Kokoda.
The Air Saguenay Otter departing Kokoda.

The pilot has to watch for the birds in order to avoid any collision in flight…

Otter aircraft and birds.
Otter aircraft and birds.

Following the Kokoda trail is a good way to reach Launumu.

The Otter in the Papua New Guinea mountains, following the Kokoda Trail.
The Otter in the Papua New Guinea mountains, following the Kokoda Trail.

If the mixture is not adjusted, the Otter will lose a lot of steam trying to climb up to 7,500 feet to cross the first line of mountains.

Inside the Otter cockpit, with the mixture adjusted.
Inside the Otter cockpit, with the mixture adjusted.

Anybody landing and departing from Launumu deals with high density altitude. This is not only due to the elevation of the airfield but also to the very warm and moist air present in the region. Consequently, some additional airspeed is required on the approach and on the departure.

The Launumu runway is in sight.
The Launumu runway is in sight.

When a pilot lands southwestward in Launumu coming from Kokoda, he must dive in a valley to lose altitude, which will increase the aircraft’s airspeed. The Launumu runway is in sight.

If the airspeed is not promptly corrected, the approach to the Launumu runway will be too fast. Any airspeed above 60 knots forces the pilot to overshoot (unless you are ready to virtually die a few times while trying).

Losing altitude while respecting the flaps speed limit.
Losing altitude while respecting the flaps speed limit.

So, once the higher mountains are crossed, a good way of losing altitude without gaining airspeed is to use flaps (at the corresponding airspeed) and do a tight 360 degree coordinated turn while descending. That way, the pilot will end up in line with the runway and at the speed you want, which is around 50 knots.

Turning and descending in the valley during an approach for Launumu.
Turning and descending in the valley during an approach for Launumu.

The Otter floats endlessly because of its huge wings.

The Air Saguenay Otter is on approach for the Launumu short runway in Papua New Guinea.
The Air Saguenay Otter is on approach for the Launumu short runway in Papua New Guinea.

On final for Launumu, the pilot might end up having to deal with the bushes that are close to the runway. It is not unusual for the Otter or the Beaver to complete a difficult approach with bushes wrapped around the landing gear.

A Air Saguenay Otter is on final for the Launumu mountain runway.
A Air Saguenay Otter is on final for the Launumu mountain runway.
A Otter aircraft is arriving on the Launumu high altitude runway.
A Otter aircraft is arriving on the Launumu high altitude runway.

Launumu has a surprise for the newcomers. If the pilot lands southwestward, like it was just done here, and the aircraft is not stopped within approximately 600 feet, it starts accelerating since there is a pronounced slope downward in the second half of the runway. This slope leads to a cliff. In case of a missed approach, the pilot can use the slope downwards and dive in the valley at the end of the runway to build up airspeed and start a new approach.

Now that the hard work is done, it is time to wait for the passengers and cargo, and plan the next leg…

A Otter aircraft is backtracking the Launumu runway after landing.
A Otter aircraft is backtracking the Launumu runway after landing.
A Otter aircraft is parked on the Launumu runway in Papua New Guinea.
A Otter aircraft is parked on the Launumu runway in Papua New Guinea.

The virtual scenery and clouds required softwares like REX, REX Texture Direct, Cumulus X, FTX Global, FTX Global Vector and Pilot’s FS Global 2010.

Click on the link for other challenging virtual flights on my blog.

Categories
Flight Simulation

Gliding operations on a 12 degree sloped runway in Papua New Guinea

Well, that is it! The first glider just arrived at the Fane Parish airport in Papua New Guinea…

Glider on the Fane Parish short grass runway in Papua New Guinea.
Glider on the Fane Parish short grass runway in Papua New Guinea.

Before it is officially offered as a tourist attraction for the region, some attempts at taking-off and landing must be done. The first trial attracts a few people!

Aircraft and glider on the Fane Parish mountain airfield.
Aircraft and glider on the Fane Parish mountain airfield.

The descent along the twelve degree sloped runway is a bit rough for the glider’s low wings, as there are some bushes that will have to be trimmed!

An aircraft pulls a glider after the take-off from the Fane Parish sloped runway in Papua New Guinea.
An aircraft pulls a glider after the take-off from the Fane Parish sloped runway in Papua New Guinea.

The weather is nice and very warm. The only potential problem is the mountain ahead.

Glider being towed by an aircraft after the take-off from the Fane Parish mountain airfield.
Glider being towed by an aircraft after the take-off from the Fane Parish mountain airfield.

Finally, the pilot cuts the link. He is free to go!

The link is cut between the plane and the glider after the take-off from Fane Parish.
The link is cut between the plane and the glider after the take-off from Fane Parish.

The glider flies silently over the lush area of Papua New Guinea.

Virtually gliding over the Papua New Guinea territory (FSX).
Virtually gliding over the Papua New Guinea territory (FSX).

Using the rising warm air currents, the glider gains altitude.

The glider gains altitude.
The glider gains altitude.

Why not a pass over Fane?

Gliding over the Fane Parish village.
Gliding over the Fane Parish village.

Here is another isolated village alongside a mountain.

Flight with a virtual glider over an isolated village of Papua New Guinea.
Flight with a virtual glider over an isolated village of Papua New Guinea.

A last steep turn in order to realign for the approach at Fane Parish.

Last steep turn for a short landing on the Fane Parish mountain sloped runway.
Last steep turn for a short landing on the Fane Parish mountain sloped runway.

The airbrakes are out and the speed reasonable. The sloped runway is just ahead, on top of the mountain to the right.

Approach of a glider on the elevated airfield at Fane Parish in Papua New Guinea. The speed and angle of approach are right on target.
Approach of a glider on the elevated airfield at Fane Parish in Papua New Guinea. The speed and angle of approach are right on target.

Keeping just enough altitude on the approach to be safe.

Glider approaching the 12 degree sloped runway of the Fane Parish aerodrome.
Glider approaching the 12 degree sloped runway of the Fane Parish aerodrome.

Now that the landing is a sure thing, it is time to use the airbrakes again to slow down as much as possible.

Virtual glider arriving over the Fane Parish runway in Papua New Guinea. The airbrakes are being used.
Virtual glider arriving over the Fane Parish runway in Papua New Guinea. The airbrakes are being used.

Keeping in mind that this mountain airfield as a good slope, it is better to have a bit of extra speed. Nobody likes to stall a few feet over a runway!

Virtual glider with airbrakes over the Fane Parish runway
Virtual glider with airbrakes over the Fane Parish runway

What an experience it was! But I’ll need some help to pull the glider up the slope!

Glider on the Fane Parish runway
Glider on the Fane Parish runway

The virtual flight was great, the view was worth every penny, and I think that this could become a new touristic attraction for the region and the more wealthy visitors…

The glider has landed on the runway at the Fane Parish airport in Papua New Guinea.
The glider has landed on the runway at the Fane Parish airport in Papua New Guinea.

Click on the link for other challenging virtual flights on my blog.

Categories
Flight Simulation

A radical way of dealing with crosswinds in flight simulation.

There is no aircraft in the sky around the Port Moresby Jacksons (AYPY) virtual airport today. No aircraft in the sky but one, a medevac flight.

Arrival of the Medevac towards the Port Moresby Jacksons (AYPY) airport. The winds forbid a normal landing.
Arrival of the Medevac towards the Port Moresby Jacksons (AYPY) airport. The winds forbid a normal landing.

The winds blow from 240 degree at 50G60 kts and the runways are oriented 14/32. It is way above the maximum crosswind authorized for any aircraft.

But the Shrike Commander’s crew cannot wait until the wind calms down. They must land in the next few minutes in order to save a patient’s life.

The Port Moresby Jacksons (AYPY) is in sight in the center top of the screen capture.
The Port Moresby Jacksons (AYPY) is in sight in the center top of the screen capture.

As there is no traffic around, the captain has told ATC he intends to do a safe, efficient but non-standard approach.

The aircraft is gradually positioned to arrive in a straight line for the AYPY hangar.
The aircraft is gradually positioned to arrive in a straight line for the AYPY hangar.
The aircraft aligns itself to face the wind blowing across the runways.
The aircraft aligns itself to face the wind blowing across the runways.

Arriving straight across the runways, facing the wind, the crew intends to land the aircraft a few feet short of a hangar. The captain requests that someone opens the hangar doors right away. The captain will terminate the approach in the hangar, protected from the wind.

Trajectory of the Shrike Commander 500S towards the hangar at the Port Moresby Jacksons airport. The hangar door has been open for the arrival.
Trajectory of the Shrike Commander 500S towards the hangar at the Port Moresby Jacksons airport. The hangar door has been open for the arrival.

It is safer to arrive facing the wind and immediately enter the hangar, straight ahead. No taxiing with a 60 knots crosswind.

Useless to say, ATC has already refused the request. But the pilot is the only one who decides of the best landing surface, for the safety of the passengers and himself. He proceeds with the approach after having clearly indicated which path will be followed.

The Shrike Commander 500S over the houses near the Port Moresby Jacksons airport.
The Shrike Commander 500S over the houses near the Port Moresby Jacksons airport.

The main problem for the approach is the low level mechanical turbulence caused by the gusty 60 kts winds.

If ATC wants to file a complaint, now is a good time to take a picture of the aircraft and its registration to support the case.

Flying by the AYPY control tower.
Flying by the AYPY control tower.

The actual ground speed of the airplane is around 20 kts.

The Shrike Commander 500S approaching across the runways at the Port Moresby Jacksons airport. The winds blow from 240 degree at 50G60.
The Shrike Commander 500S approaching across the runways at the Port Moresby Jacksons airport. The winds blow from 240 degree at 50G60.

The steady high wind speed is actually safer for the crew than if the winds were 240 at 35G60.

Ground speed of about 20 knots for the Shrike Commander 500S on final for the Port Moresby Jacksons hangar (AYPY).
Ground speed of about 20 knots for the Shrike Commander 500S on final for the Port Moresby Jacksons hangar (AYPY).

Still a bit above the runway and with a 10-20 knots ground speed. The airspeed indicator shows the strength of the wind itself plus the ground speed.

Indicated airspeed 70 knots.
Indicated airspeed 70 knots.
Frontal view of the Shrike Commander 500S about to land in front of the hangar at AYPY.
Frontal view of the Shrike Commander 500S about to land in front of the hangar at AYPY.

Floating like a hot air balloon or almost!

Side view of the Shrike Commander 500S on final for the Port Moresby Jacksons airport's hangar.
Side view of the Shrike Commander 500S on final for the Port Moresby Jacksons airport’s hangar.
The Shrike Commander will soon land in Port Moresby Jacksons.
The Shrike Commander will soon land in Port Moresby Jacksons.

As the aircraft touches the ground, it stops almost immediately. It is necessary to apply power to reach the hangar, as you can see with the white trail on the ground behind the aircraft.

In real life, the touch-down would have had to be as soon as the asphalt start since the presence of the hangar lowers the wind speed a bit.

The Shrike Commander lands a few feet before the hangar. Additional power is mandatory to reach the hangar.
The Shrike Commander lands a few feet before the hangar. Additional power is mandatory to reach the hangar.

A few seconds after the touch-down, the aircraft is in the hangar, protected from the wind, and both doctor and patient can quickly head out to the hospital.

The Shrike Commander 500S in the hangar at Port Moresby (AYPY).
The Shrike Commander 500S in the hangar at Port Moresby (AYPY).

Once in the hangar, the winds were adjusted to zero, which is kind of logical, unless the opposite wall is missing!

View of the Port Moresby Jacksons (AYPY)
View of the Port Moresby Jacksons (AYPY)

It was now time to brace for another storm, which was the inquiry that would possibly follow the landing!

(P.S.: Tim Harris and Ken Hall were the creators of this virtual Port Moresby Jacksons international airport) and it is sold by ORBX. The aircraft is sold by Carenado).

Click on the link for more unhinged virtual flights on my blog.

Categories
Flight Simulation

Try to land in Sumburgh, Scotland, with the Antonov 225 and the Buran space shuttle.

Antonov 225 with the Russian shuttle Bourane inbound for Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX
Antonov 225 with the Russian shuttle Bourane inbound for Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)
Antonov 225 with the Bourane shuttle on final approach to Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)
Antonov 225 with the Bourane shuttle on final approach to Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)

I know, Sumburgh is not an airport meant to receive the Antonov 225, even less with the Russian space shuttle Buran as cargo. In fact, this aircraft and Sumburgh exclude each other mutually. But if you want to try an  almost impossible virtual flight , now is the opportunity.

Antonov 225 with the Bourane shuttle on short final approach to Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)
Antonov 225 with the Bourane shuttle on short final approach to Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)

You must forget about the weight of the aircraft on the runway, the limited space to taxy and park, and the required distance for an eventual take-off. It is probable that once in Sumburgh, this aircraft will stay there forever.

Antonov 225 with the Russian shuttle Bourane over the runway in Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)
Antonov 225 with the Russian shuttle Bourane over the runway in Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)

It is interesting, though, to remember the exceptional performances of the Antonov 225. While flying over the Bourget for a demonstration, it was able to maintain a 45 degree turn with the 62 tons Russian shuttle mounted on top.

Speed 126 kts on the Sumburgh runway, Scotland, with the Antonov 225 and the Russian shuttle Bourane (FSX)
Speed 126 kts on the Sumburgh runway, Scotland, with the Antonov 225 and the Russian shuttle Bourane (FSX)
Antonov 225 taxiing in Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)
Antonov 225 taxiing in Sumburgh, Scotland (FSX)

The approach can be made at a surprisingly slow speed for an aircraft of that weight and the breaking performance is known to be excellent. In Sumburgh, you have the choice between two runways (4700 to 4900 feet). Forget about a safe final approach, you must fly it like a daredevil. It is possible to download the Antonov 225 and the shuttle for free. As for the Sumburgh airport, it is a creation of ORBX and is available for a very reasonable fee.

For other flights of that type, head to the “unhinged virtual flights” of my web site.

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Flight Simulation

Limberlost Ranch (CA21) and the Twin Otter C-FPOG

The virtual flight below was made with the FSX flight simulation platform. The last time I flew at Limberlost Ranch, I used a Cessna C-207 ( The Cessna C-207 in Limberlost Ranch ).

This time, I tried the sloped and laterally uneven runway with a Twin Otter. This one is painted with the real colours of the Province of Ontario Ministry of natural resources (C-FOPG). The only problem I expected was regarding the larger wings of the Twin Otter once close to the hangar.

On final for the Limberlost Ranch runway
On final for the Limberlost Ranch runway
Twin Otter C-FOPG approaching the Limberlost Ranch short runway
Twin Otter C-FOPG approaching the Limberlost Ranch short runway

Finally, everything went well. The only difficulty was to manoeuver near the hangar to reposition the aircraft for take-off. With several ajustments to the propeller’s pitch, I was eventually able to turn around.

Arrival at Limberlost Ranch of the Twin Otter C-FOPG
Arrival at Limberlost Ranch of the Twin Otter C-FOPG
Virtual aircraft belonging to the Ontario provincial government turning around on the Limberlost Ranch runway.
Virtual aircraft belonging to the Ontario provincial government turning around on the Limberlost Ranch runway.

Since the fence is low enough, it is not a problem for the aircraft’s wings.

Virtual aircraft C-FOPG rolling on the Limberlost Ranch (CA21) runway.
Virtual aircraft C-FOPG rolling on the Limberlost Ranch (CA21) runway.

Near the grass runway’s threshold are a few tall trees that require, for safety measures, a slight banking. Just in case…

Twin Otter aircraft leaving Limberlost Ranch (CA21)
Twin Otter aircraft leaving Limberlost Ranch (CA21)

Limberlost Ranch is a fun challenge. It is part of a package called Blue-Canyon Nyack and sold by Orbx. If this is not challenging enough for the flight simulation buff, it is always possible to add strong direct crosswinds and that should do it!

Click on the link for other challenging virtual flights on my blog.

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Flight Simulation

Flight simulation (FSX): a C-17A at the Block Island airport (KBID) in USA

Alex Geoff, the ORBX Block Island (KBID) virtual airport designer, asked flight simulator enthousiasts to try to operate the biggest aircraft possible on that airport ‘s 2502 ft runway.

Canadian military aircraft C17-A ready for take-off runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A ready for take-off runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)

Naturally, we are talking about a virtual flight. You must then forgive the landing of an aircraft which, in real life, would destroy the runway. You also have to disregard the fact that numerous trees would have to be chopped if the aircraft would elect to use the taxiway. I was almost forgetting the pilots and airport manager that would have to be fired following the authorized manoeuver.

The context of the flight having been presented, here is the data that will allow flight simulator enthousiasts to replicate the circuit around the Block Island airport with a Virtavia C-17A.

Contrary to the Cessna type aircrafts normally evolving around the airport, the total weight of the canadian military C-17A used for the flight was 405,000 pounds. The fuel was adjusted to 50% in all four tanks. Both pilots agreed to skip lunch in order to avoid adding any extra weight to the beast…

Flaps were adjusted to 2/3. I backed the aircraft to the beginning of the runway, applied the brakes, applied full throttle, waited for maximum regime, released the brakes and used ground effect to lift the aircraft before it was too late. The take-off was done on runway 10 with a 12 kts and 70 degree crosswind.

Canadian military aircraft C17-A airborne runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A airborne runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)

Then, four right turns were made : 190°, 280°, 010° and 100°. During the flight, the aircraft’s altitude never went above 2000 feet.

Canadian military aircraft C17-A turning downwind runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A turning downwind runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)

Wheels and flaps were brought down in base so that I did not have to make serious adjustments on final.

Canadian military aircraft C17-A turning base runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A turning base runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A on long final runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A on long final runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A short final runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A short final runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)

The speed eventually went down to 128 kts and, while the aircraft was still about two feet in the air, I used the airbrakes. The thrust reversers were fully activated two feet before touch-down (continued pressure on F2) since they take time to rev up. That is not necessarily the proper way to do it and you can wait one more second, until the wheels touch the runway, to use the reversers. The main gear touched at the very beginning of the runway and maximum breaking was then applied.

Canadian military aircraft C17-A landing at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)
Canadian military aircraft C17-A landing at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport in United States (FSX)

It was possible to exit on the taxiway without having to back-track on the runway. The environment always coming second, some trees were cut so that there were no contacts with the aircraft.

Canadian military aircraft C17-A exiting runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport (FSX) in United States
Canadian military aircraft C17-A exiting runway 10 at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport (FSX) in United States
Canadian military aircraft C17-A taxiing at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport (FSX) in United States
Canadian military aircraft C17-A taxiing at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport (FSX) in United States

If you decide to try it out, think of saving the flight when you are on final, in case you are not satisfied with your performance during the landing (scrapped aircraft, destroyed houses and vehicles in the neighborhood, burned forest at the end of runway 10, collateral victims, etc.).

Canadian military aircraft C17-A at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport (FSX) in United States
Canadian military aircraft C17-A at the Block Island (KBID) virtual airport (FSX) in United States

Good luck!

For other challenging virtual flights, head towards the flight simulation section of the present web site.

For more articles on flight simulation on my web site, click on the following link : Flight simulation