Chinook Ultralights

[Huron Topp]

Quick question:
has anyone any experience with the Chinook Ultralight? Not sure of those of you in the UK, but approved as "Advanced Ultra-Light Aircraft" here in Canada. Wondering about experiences etc.

Cheers

[MLS-12D]

Sorry, I've never flown one, so can't provide any firsthand information. But I remember that there was a fairly detailed article on the Chinook Plus 2 in a 1997 issue of Aviation Quarterly (which became Aviation Canada, which in turn ceased publication earlier this year, when it was merged into Canadian Aviator). If you can track down a copy of that back issue, it would be well worth it, especially if you are considering floats (as I recall, there was advice offered from owners regarding which Full Lotus floats worked best).

Several other articles are available on-line, here.

I don't know where you live, but if you are in southern Ontario you can go 'try-before-you-buy' at Capital Air Sports, located in Guelph. Of course, the aircraft is produced in B.C., so if you are out west the company itself (Aircraft Sales and Parts) can probably arrange for a demo flight.

I hope this helps!

[Huron Topp]

Thanks MLS. I've already gone through the manufacturer's and dealer's sites. Looking for a more personal opinion.

I'm in PEI, so heading west isn't really an option at the 'mo. There is a guy up east (on PEI) who has one and have considered seeing about doing a demo with him. I'm actually considering possibly opening a little school here. I must be bored.

[MLS-12D]

There is a guy up east (on PEI) who has one

I guess you mean Troy Bailey?

Another owner, relatively near you, is Harold Hatfield in Woodstock N.B. It might be worthwhile giving him a call [[phone]] and asking for his impressions.

Harold has owned his aircraft for three years, whereas Troy is a fairly new owner. Between the two of them, they ought to be able to provide you with a good perspective.

[Huron Topp]

Holy! You know those guys, or have you been digging through the Reg. database?