FlyingGiants - View Single Post - Sea Level to High Altitude

Divesplat · 04-30-2007, 09:03 PM

I'm from Lubbock Tx (3500Ft) and experience a definate change from flying in Alb, NM (4500ft I think, same as Denver anyway)

You will notice:
1) Your engine has to be Leaner on the high end (less Barometric pressure which means less available 02 to mix with your fuel) I have noticed an extreme change in going to Dallas (900 Ft or so) the other direction. Run the motor but be prepared!!!

2) You will have to use MAXIMUM performance props to achieve the most with your engine.

3) All your control surfaces will need to be adjusted to more throw. When we go to Alb it takes several flights to get used to the ail/elev effects because there is a difference. Some pilots have gone so far as to adjust their ATV for high altitude flying. I think it just depends on what you get used to. Thinner air will cause less effect on the same deflection as well as poorer vertical perfomance and stall will occur at a higher airspeeed. Less lift on the wings as well. The heat will become more of a factor also.

Once you get used to it, it doesn't matter then, but if you fly at a lower altitude you will notice the difference.

Ed

04-30-2007, 09:03 PM	#2
Divesplat Super Contributer Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Lubbock, Tx Posts: 142	Re: Sea Level to High Altitude - What to Expect? I'm from Lubbock Tx (3500Ft) and experience a definate change from flying in Alb, NM (4500ft I think, same as Denver anyway) You will notice: 1) Your engine has to be Leaner on the high end (less Barometric pressure which means less available 02 to mix with your fuel) I have noticed an extreme change in going to Dallas (900 Ft or so) the other direction. Run the motor but be prepared!!! 2) You will have to use MAXIMUM performance props to achieve the most with your engine. 3) All your control surfaces will need to be adjusted to more throw. When we go to Alb it takes several flights to get used to the ail/elev effects because there is a difference. Some pilots have gone so far as to adjust their ATV for high altitude flying. I think it just depends on what you get used to. Thinner air will cause less effect on the same deflection as well as poorer vertical perfomance and stall will occur at a higher airspeeed. Less lift on the wings as well. The heat will become more of a factor also. Once you get used to it, it doesn't matter then, but if you fly at a lower altitude you will notice the difference. Ed