SonexBuilders.net

I've just completed a couple of test flights where I finally got up the nerve to attempt rolls & loops (Note: I did have an hour of dual "unusual attitude" training in a Citabria before I tried these). The first flight I clearly was screwing up! (Don't laugh too hard!)
http://youtu.be/0fupC-_EAgk

The second flight a few days later was much better. Still not ready for competition... :lol:

http://youtu.be/pt9ye28Cci8

Still left; spins and then combinations!

Very cool! Makes me wish I was up flying instead of at work. The video quality is very good, I was impressed considering how small those cameras are. I love aerobatics, its like a roller coaster you control with your mind! So..... what are your impressions of the Citabria vs the Sonex? I've never flown a Citabria, but wondered how they handle. I think the Sonex is a blast, especially with the 3300.

Kevin K
Cincinnati
Sonex 130 (one of the classics)

Hi, Mike:

Thanks for posting! It got me pumped up to try my first rolls today. Did several in each direction today. I've taken several aerobatic lessons in a Super Decathalon, but needed to get up the courage to try it alone in the Sonex. I practiced spins and spin recoveries first, then did the rolls. No loops, but that will be next :-)

Mike Smith
Sonex #439

Spin testing, hammerheads and split-s

http://youtu.be/WEEj2HLmRTE

Looking good Mike! Be warned... People will claim that you cannot fly right side up any more!

I always heard we were discouraged from spinning the Sonex intentionally


Eric M

Sonex825 wrote:I always heard we were discouraged from spinning the Sonex intentionally


Eric M

That's the first time I hear that one.
Here's a message on the old yahoo groups of a builder spinning his Sonex up to 10 turns!
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/son ... pics/13723

Made him almost sick it seems though. :D

Sonex825 wrote:I always heard we were discouraged from spinning the Sonex intentionally


Eric M

I've never heard that. Aerobatic and even utility category includes spins.

Urility category aircraft have been spin tested IAW part 23 but does not necessarily mean the aircraft is approved for intentional spins. The specific aircraft must specifically allow spins as an approved maneuver. This is also outlined in part 23 to include being able to exit the aircraft at the highest speed encountered in the maneuver etc. Many utility aircraft are not approved for spins like Cherokees.

I'd never hear that comment either. The Sonex has been previously approved for "sport class" aerobatics at +6/-3G. However, maneuvers, including spins, must be tested and then specifically stated in the logbook that they are approved for that plane. That's why I was so nervous performing these tests for the first time! After I completed my tests. Every maneuver I performed was noted in my aircraft logbook. The good news is that the Sonex is a "puppy" during spins. They are entirely predicable and fun.

Here is a better video with the maneuvers called out. http://youtu.be/WEEj2HLmRTE
Ignore the early attempts at a split-S, but there are good ones at the end.