Tech Friday: Sneak peak at the new plane

I’m trying to get a leg up, going into the Labor Day Weekend. Thought I might share some images of the new plane, since you will soon be seeing video and stills from it in the air. These images were made and sent to me by Mark Klotz who is building the plane in Ohio. Some images are of the plane on display at the Osh Kosh Air Show.

One of the most important features of
this all new version of the Phoenix 103
is the use of the Hirth F23 engine. This
German made aircraft engine is just
the ticket for a Part 103 ultra light
airplane. Weighing in at only 71
lbs. it develops 50 H.P. and a very
flat Torque curve for stable power
at a range of R.P.M.s. The plane
should have a very nice climb rate
and should run smoothly at cruise.
This is very important since I plan to
hang at least 5 video cameras attached
at various points around the plane to
do a video program on flying ultra
lights, low and slow.

Shown to the right is the engine and
exhaust system, fuel tank, and
electrical wiring with mag switches
(red and blue overhead).

Below, right some of the instruments that
will be on the panel. New electronic instruments from Be-Lite Aviation company. The new plane is the re birth, (thus the Phoenix),
of the original Aerolite 103.
After several years of very
successful manufacturing the
Aerolite Company went
out of business. My builder
Mark Klotz had served as the
President and principal
builder for Aerolite, so when
his no compete clause expired
he decided to bring the very
successful plane back to the
market with numerous design
changes and improvements
that make the once great
plane even better!

What is 103? The Federal Aviation Administration established some years ago a special class-
ification of aircraft called Part 103. For an airplane to be a Part 103 it must weight less than 254 pounds, have one seat, and only 5 gallons of fuel. It further must not be able to fly faster than 63 mph in level flight. If the plane meets these criteria, the pilot may fly without a license. It is the simplest purest form of aviation for fun.

If everything goes according to plan, I will be showing more next week and hopefully posting some video as well!

Have a great weekend and may God bless you and your family.

the pilgrim