Originally Posted by
rotorspeed
Be surprised if this twin Squirrel was IFR - it was an F1 wasn't it? With 2400kg MTOW, 5 POB and fuel to do 225nm into a headwind I'd have thought they wouldn't have had the payload in an IFR acft. Unless it refuelled, but then no mention of that.
Assuming VFR flight, have to agree with Crab, routing north via Colwyn Bay would have been logical given the wx. Suspect even with a VFR ship weight was tight hence maybe choosing most direct route. A refuel at Caernarfon might have solved both issues.
Very sad indeed, RIP.
Rotorspeed;
She was equipped for IFR when I flew her (Garmin 430s and full SFIM autopilot) However, your question about the pax/fuel load is very pertinent. I once flew her 2 up from Troyes to Elstree non-stop. And Stansted-Dublin IFR solo. But like all middle aged ladies she had gained a bit of weight. 5 up with reserves may have been a bit of a push. I can't remember the exact numbers as I haven't flown a 355 for about 10 years and this particular one since 2004.
SND