Next time I talk to Des Barker in South Africa I'll ask him to ask Levin
what the numbers are for this stunt. I'm curious myself.
Dudley Henriques


"Morgans" wrote in message
...

"Dudley Henriques" wrote

There is always the chance of an engine sputtering or failing while
engaged in this type of work. Most pilots including me give themselves
just a little bit of room in case something goes wrong up front. Those
who take the airplane into an area where they don't have that little bit
of room to wiggle are now completely dependent on the engine NOT failing
them during the time the stunt is running.
It's a dangerous game, and many have died playing it.

About how fast do you suppose they are going, and how much above stall are
they?

I would think that if they were a comfortable margin above stall, they
might be able to pull quickly enough (that is the big "if" I guess) to get
a "zoom" up off the water; at least a few dozen feet.

Of course, if it is more than a quick stutter, they will be right back
where they started, doing a cartwheel, very soon ... anyway. :-(

At that speed, I know water is mighty hard, but I'll guess that it very
well could be a survivable impact, as long as you did not lose
consciousness, and were able to get out fairly quickly. The plane would
sure be a mess, though.

I'm prob'ly with you. More than an acceptable risk. It sure looks like a
good rush, though! g
--
Jim in NC