Originally Posted by
Vince
I just discovered this thread and we have been discussing the possibility of doing a Penguin as a youth build. It would also be a great recruiting tool for the chapter.
Some of the possibilities, concerns, etc. are:
1. Configuration- All Penguins we have seen photos of are tractors. Perhaps a pusher would be safer.
2. It would be even safer if the prop had a cage like airboats use.
3. There's concern that no amount of ground school would be equel to having an on board instructor. Therefor, how about a two place with the back seat on the C. G.?
4. It would definitely not be capable of flight in any form. Not even short crow hops.
5. Configuration again. If it was a pusher, use a three tube empennage system.
6. From a cost standpoint electric is probably out as it would cost several times as much as using an industrial engine. That said electric would be cleaner and much quieter.
7. For solo "flight" a remote (RC components) kill system is necessary.
8. Folding or removable wings.
9. Use a motorcycle front fork & tire for the wheel.
10. Use wing tip wheels to reduce ground looping forces.
11. Could be wood as the historical ones are, tube and fabric (a bit fragile) or aluminum. All would teach skills needed to build a real aircraft.
12. The recruiting value for potential youth aviation candidates and adult EAA members would be tremendous.
13. How would a chapter get insurance coverage for such an activity? If licensed pilots were used in a two place version, would the Young Eagles program cover it? If the Penguin weighed less than 254 lbs qualifying as an ultralight fit into the Young Eagles program?
Any thoughts on this?
Vince Homer
EAA 292