EAA Sport Aviation

STOL: Not Just Desirable—Necessary

One of the first “mods” an MAF plane receives is a STOL kit to improve its short takeoff and landing performance. The MAF has tried and tested them all and prefers the Sportsman STOL leading edge, but it also uses Horton and Robertson STOL kits (see Resource Box for more information). STOL kits typically include a leading edge cuff (that changes the effective camber and lift of the wing) and a wing-top fence (to keep the air molecules flying in formation as they pass over the wing). Together, they help the aircraft remain stable in the slow airspeed regime.

The MAF 206 fleet also has Flint tanks, auxiliary wingtip tanks that carry an extra 30 gallons of fuel, extend the wingspan slightly, and add to the low-end performance of the airplane. Hook explains that in testing the Flint tanks without the STOL kit installed, they saw nearly the same performance numbers, proving that the Flint tanks alone helped keep the airplane under control near the stall speed.

Because of the rolling motions, vibrations, and industrial-strength jarring that MAF planes encounter on the ground, the organization prefers the sturdy Cessna 206G model, which ceased production in 1986. When they become available for sale, however, the MAF chooses the beefiness of the 206 with floats kits since the seaplane structural members are extra robust and help support the aircraft and prevent excessive flexing on water or rough strips.

All MAF Cessnas carry a cargo pod. The Cessna 206s use one from Aerocet. For most uses, the pod is great for carrying suitcases or extra cargo, but as Hook describes, “We’ve used them to carry pigs, chickens—you name it—anything you really don’t want in the cabin with you.”

Aero Twin developed, and has received a supplemental type certificate (STC) for, its gravel deflectors. The “mud flaps” keep rocks from kicking up and hitting the tail surfaces, saving on maintenance and wear and tear. A rubber strip on the leading edge of the horizontal stabilizer also helps keep abrasive dirt, sand, and rocks from scarring the tail. Another minor modification to

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2009
to Salute Those Who ‘Fly for Life’

The breadth and depth of good works accomplished by general aviation will be in the spotlight at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2009, as a weeklong Fly for Life program will recognize and honor aviators who fly for humanitarian goals.

This program will highlight public-benefit aviation activities and mission-based flight operations, with EAA working with the Air Care Alliance and the International Association of Missionary Aviation, among others, that represent more than 200 organizations. Activities will include a major display adjacent to AeroShell Square, including aircraft, forums, and other events.

“There are so many ways that general aviation serves people around the world—even people who don’t have a direct involvement with flying,” says Tom Poberezny, EAA president and AirVenture chairman. “Aviation is used to meet basic human needs and bring hope in so many ways, including medical and dental missions to remote regions, famine relief, and a wide range of other humanitarian projects. We are looking forward to recognizing those people and organizations during EAA AirVenture 2009.”

Many humanitarian organizations have been longtime participants at EAA AirVenture through individual exhibit areas and presentations. The Fly for Life program marks the first time all these public-benefit and mission flight organizations have come together to highlight the ways that general aviation serves people worldwide.

“This is a story that we want to share not only with the aviation community at EAA AirVenture but also with the public that does not always understand the depth of aviation’s contribution to our world,” said Bob Warner, former EAA vice president, who is serving as the program’s volunteer chairman.

Warner said the program welcomes those engaged in humanitarian, public-benefit, and mission aviation efforts to participate in the weeklong activities. Those groups interested in participating may contact Bob Warner at