Aerobatics -Which would you choose?

[phiggsbroadband]

Hi, the guys were either from Oxford or Cosford, can't remember which. Each loop was approximately 300ft diameter, and lost about 80ft each.
No thermals that day.
Maybe they could give a repeat performance, for uTube...


edit... Most likely Oxford GC, as I think they used the Tow Chipmunk G-xxOU.

[hugh flung_dung]

Like others here I've taught in all 3 types and would suggest the Bulldog as the best choice.

• The C150 just hasn't got "it" (whatever that is). What it does have is inadequate power, inadequate view out, inadequate roll rate, and inadequate fun factor.
• The T67 family is quite good but the roll rate is a little ponderous. The A tries to depart if you blink (good for teaching sensitive hands) and is underpowered. The C is reasonable, but the M is much better.
• The Bulldog is a gentleman's carriage that will teach you everything you need to know and will prepare you well for the next stage, if there is one. The only thing to watch for is the accelerated spin so get someone who is very familiar with Bulldogs to demo an accelerated spin recovery (for this I started the initial spin entry at at FL90-100) at the end of your aeros course and before you start on anything more interesting than the basics; it's a very docile aircraft but IMnsHO aeros pilots should be shown this little corner.

Other thoughts:

• In general, a C/S prop will make learning a little faster because you can concentrate a little more on lookout.
• Inverted systems are not so important for learning (although I did once wish I'd had one when I dumped rather a lot of oil out of a Pup 150)
• I agree with others that it's best not to spend your money on the more powerful /capable aircraft because a large part of learning is overcoming fear, getting used to sensations and learning where to look to get the info needed to make very simple movements on the controls. 200HP is enough.

Another type to consider is the Decathlon - it performs quite well but the high wing is a bit of a pain.

Finally, if there's a Cap10b/c available in reasonable travelling distance that would be the one to choose without any doubt: superb handling, excellent performance and visibility. The Cap10C is my favourite aeroplane, both to teach in and to fly.