At the time of its rollout, the B-19 was called the largest aircraft in the world. The XB-19’s wingspan of 212 feet was more than twice that of a B-17. With a range listed as greater than 5,000 miles and a ferry range of more than 7,000 miles, the XB-19 could use auxiliary bomb bay gas tanks to bring its fuel capacity to 11,000 gallons, which a Douglas publicist likened to the volume carried by a standard railroad tank car of the day.
Opinion
One step at a time
It is true, a 500-nm range isn’t far compared to existing turbo-prop powered aircraft. I forget, how far was Orville and Wilbur’s first flight? Oh yeah, 120 feet.
An appreciation of the classics
“You’re going to meet some fascinating people at airports,” I told them. They nodded as one. I don’t think they have yet come to realize that they will be fascinating themselves.
SUN ‘n FUN 2021: A glorious return to normal
Electric aircraft, speedy new Light-Sport Aircraft, a “good” Tornado, and nightly STOL competitions were just some of the highlights at Paradise City, the LSA area of SUN ‘n FUN 2021.
The birds and the bees and any given airplane
Literally overnight, a bird of indeterminate breed had begun to set up shop in the engine compartment of my lovely little flivver. Just one night was all it took for a feathered fellow flier to begin to pile kindling onto the face of the oil cooler, in close proximity to a cylinder head, in an effort to establish a warm, safe, weather-protected shelter for herself and her soon-to-be offspring.
Ask Paul: More on removing vacuum pumps
Thanks to a good friend who acts as my “conscience” for my posts, I’ve been advised that I may have mislead those who may be thinking about permanently removing a vacuum pump in a Lycoming engine in a Piper Arrow III.
The six myths of oil analysis
Is oil analysis really important? It is it is if you consider the cost of a new or rebuilt engine, and the safety and peace of mind that it can give you says our oils expert.
Questions from the Cockpit: Are non-towered airports more dangerous?
Are non-towered airports really like the wild, wild west? And should there be more laws governing them?
In the quest for answers, look for the right stuff
There are a multitude of paths that will lead you, your kids, and your grandchildren to a brighter future in aviation. Which path you take is up to you. Finding the right one is a lot easier and far more productive if you consult with a knowledgeable individual who has a connection to the field, not just some random dude who is nearby, easy to access, and tells a seemingly plausible story.