Anyone flown an Auster?
 

I have a friend who has suggested that I fly one of his Austers, I think he has a J5 and a J1. Does anybody have any thoughts on them? Are they any good?

Cheers
Tigerman

[This message has been edited by Tigerman (edited 08 January 2001).]

Depends what you want to fly it for - control harmonisation is pretty poor - not one of my favourite machines and to mind not one of the most fun ones to fly but great for short field.
As for should you fly it? The question I would ask is, why not? Even though it may not be the most fun flying you have it will still be good experience, and ANY flying I can get I will take as long as the aeroplane has been properly maintained.
Once you have flown it once you can then decide if you want more or not.

If you want to fly something different,or something that attracts attention, then why not?
You make no mention of your experience level or whether you have flown tailwheel before.
If not, you may find it initially a bit of a handful, particularly in a crosswind, especially off tarmac.
Still, don't be put off.Get yourself a "guy who knows" and allow him to teach you all he knows.
They can be good fun - certainly more rewarding than a spamcan.

Good luck, Sleeve.

P.S. First flew one, in Auster country, (Leicestershire),back in the late fifties.Since then, many times.

Austers are probably the most unpredictable aircraft I have ever flown. Do a beautifully executed approach, flare just right and it will probably bounce right down the field. Do a rushed approach and make a mess of the flare and it will probably settle on fine. Apart from this it's an ergonomic nightmare and personally I hope I never fly one again. However, there are many people that absolutely love them so the only answer is to try it for yourself.

Thank for your opinions
Experience- I have 110hr total with about 15 in Tiger Moths.

Learnt to fly in an Auster (J1N)- bloody awful machine. Try changing hands on approach just to put on flap! Still cringe every time I see one.
Bent wings are best!