Pietenpol Aircamper

The Pietenpol Aircamper is a plans built design dating from the late 1920's and originates from Minnesota USA. Designed and first built by Bernard H Pietenpol in the pioneering days of light aviation, it became a popular and enduring compact two seater parasol wing light aircraft. G-BRXY was only the second built UK variant, constructed between 1989 and 1991 by Tony Morris (then the Chief Engineer at Fairoaks Airfield). It had its maiden flight in April 1991. Powered by a Continental C90-12F (the equivalent of the RR O-200 engine) GXY is at home on grass and hard surfaces and is capable of 700 feet per minute climb rates. Normal cruise speed is 72kts. Total usable fuel capacity is 75 litres in two fuel tanks (fuselage and wing centre section mounted) giving a useable endurance of 2.5 hrs with reserves. Its maximum all up weight is 1200 lbs (544 kg) and with a wingspan of 29 ft. and a wing area of 135 sq ft (12.5 sq m) it has a low wing loading meaning short field take-offs and landings can be routine, making it an ideal farm strip aircraft. The aircraft has two seats in tandem with full instrumentation in both cockpits and both positions afford outstanding views when in the cruise with the rear (P1) position having unobstructed views in all direction (including above). The front cockpit can be readily re-fitted with controls (available as part of the sale) allowing dual operation from either cockpit. The P1 position is fitted with the excellent TRIG TY91 radio and TRIG TT21 mode S transponder. Other modifications from the norm for a Pietenpol include a starter motor, toe operated brakes, strengthened harness attachment points, large rear windscreen and, to aid ground manoeuvrability, a steerable tailwheel. The engine has had a partial top overhaul and has flown 12 hrs since then. The Pietenpol offers Cub-like performance, with outstanding visibility from the open cockpits and is just about the most fun one can have with a very affordable aircraft that gives the real vintage aircraft experience.