PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Flying a Chipmunk
View Single Post
Old 14th Aug 2006, 21:36
  #9 (permalink)  
BroomstickPilot
 
Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: Surrey, England
Posts: 731
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
De Havilland Canada's Chipmunk

A330 Dreamer,

In addition to what has been said so far, with all of which I thoroughly concur, I would say the following.

With the best will in the world, flying the Pa28 you are used to, with its soggy handling and control yoke, is like driving a lorry. The Chipmunk, with its crisp, finger-light, sensitive handling is like a small and agile sports car by comparison. It will find and show up any shortcomings in your airmanship, that's why it was the RAF's primary trainer for so long, so get a good instructor and go carefully.

One thing you will probably never have seen before is its 'P Type' grid ring compass in front of the control column and almost between your knees. I think you will find this infinitely superior to the little plastic things we use today.

Chipmunk is fully aerobatic. In particular, you can experience spinning in it, although you must not go beyond six turns or she goes flat.

I do envy you your chance to fly this lovely little aeroplane: enjoy it, it's special.

Broomstick.
BroomstickPilot is offline