Recently I saw an old picture of
a Piper Cub skiing across a lake on its tires. I thought
I would love to try that. Further searching revealed pictures
of T-6 aircraft doing this on a lake, in formation.
After
that I had no choice and set out to do this myself. I met
a crop duster in Texas who described the technique in detail
and stated he had done this many times, after which I was
convinced I could safely do this myself. More research
has shown that the aircraft I own is eligible to do this
breaking no laws. I took the plunge (no pun intended),
and have accomplished this many times.
As a tail wheel
instructor, I thought this might be a good way to prove
my ability to demonstrate complete control of the aircraft.
My goal now is to fly around a lake, without leaving the
water, until I make a complete 360.
The video below was
my first day of aircraft skiing, and though I have hit
the water many times since, I find it hard to find a passenger
who will accompany me and film it. The first time, I landed
near the water and let my friend out who filmed from shore.
The alligators were watching and the cows wanted to chase
him as well as the snakes, but he got the shot as you can
see. I carry a life vest, alligator repellant and stay
or remain at least 500 feet from anything man made. |
