Mike’s Cessna 140
The Cessna flies in a sunny, blue sky: perfect winter weather.
A few weeks ago, Mike Nadler bought himself an early Christmas present, an almost-ready-to-fly Ultrafly Cessna 140, which he ordered from a Taiwan dealer.
After a long idyllic warm fall, December temperatures have plummeted into the the 40s and 50s, slowing down our building days and nipping into our flying time, especially when rain reinforces the wintry weather.
So it took Mike awhile to finish the plane—he builds in an unheated storage space with an open garage-style door—but today he brought the Cessna to Baylands for its maiden flight.
The day was overcast, just starting to clear, when Mike took off.
As he circled the Great Meadow, the plane flew nicely, though Mike complained that it was underpowered, and, of course, he had to trim it as he flew.
It didn’t appear to lack power.
Mike succcessfully avoided a speeding ducted fan jet that was zigging across the field and brought it in for a landing.
It landed hot—a bit speedy—and flipped over, even though Mike flared it nicely at the last minute.
“It might need bigger wheels,” he said.
Mike once owned his own full-size plane, a Piper Tri Pacer and in those days he lusted after a Cessna 140, but as he considered purchasing a plane, the price escalated beyond his interest level.
Thanks for the great pictures and write up. The plane sure looks good in the air. I’ve already replaced the 1 3/4″ wheels with 3″ wheels. I think if the grass is in better condition it will take off better. Landings will still be difficult.
I’d love to have a full scale 140, but $20,000 to $30,000 for a 60 year old light plane is beyond my budget.
Mike
Those are some great shots Pete!
I think you know your camera well.
Mike’s plane looks great! – the only improvement in it’s appearance and landing performance might be to add Skis From Morgan RC
ahem.
I’d be glad to sell you a set for half the cost of a 60 year old light plane…
Cheers!
Gary
Cool!
I am still finishing my Ultrafly C-140….
Waiting on the pilot (scale 1:8) and good weather!
It is freezing here
Looks great this plane!
Rob
It should be noted that Rob checks in from Echt, Netherlands! We have been communicating on Watt Flyer. Whata great R/C world we have!
Mike
Congratulations on your Cessna’s maiden flight Mike. She looks pretty! Nice pictures and words Pete.
Cheers,
Don