Joe Nunley wrote: >> So, if we use 70 mph low over the numbers to minimize ground role, brakes on touchdown, get big tires for traction, a belly board or airbrakes, flaps, land into the wind, use a go around when things are not right, and put a net at the end of the runway, we could operate out of a 1200 foot strip. Anybody think that it can't be done? <<
There are a lot of factors, but I'm betting if you really touch down at 70 mph right at the end of the runway, you're still not going to get it stopped before the other end, at least not EVERY time. And depending on what's at the end of the runway, I honestly think that the day will come when you regret that decision. With lots of practice, maybe, but if there's anything to hit on eitherAnother factor is what's on the approaches? If it's fields of short stuff like beans, maybe. 70 mph is too fast for actually touchdown for this. 60 mph would be much better, but I still wouldn't count on getting stopped. There's a lot of debate that could be had about this, but the day will come when there's some gusts you have to compensate for, or a crosswind, or something makes the conditions less than perfect, and it's going to bite you. A KR is not a STOL airplane, especially if it's overweight or even near gross weight. I'm a firm believer in not stacking the odds against yourself, and certainly not from the beginning. I wouldn't attempt it, personally, but then again, maybe I'm just a fraidy cat... Mark Langford ML at N56ML.com http://www.n56ml.com
