Sonex/Waiex as a commuter vehicle?

[Aldo]

Hello Everyone,

I am a new member that happens to live at on one airport (KSUT) and work at another (KILM). Given the roads and country side between the two locations, I am looking at purchasing a Sonex or Waiex for daily use between the two locations. The aircraft would be flown VFR only with driving always being plan B. Total daily flight time would be about 70 minutes.

Any comments you all have about the suitability of these aircraft for this mission would be greatly appreciated. In addition to considering that we are a coastal community with four seasons, any comments with respect to the Aerovee vs the J3300 would be very helpful. Economy favors the Aerovee, but we do have high density altitudes during several months of the year.

Thanks for you help!

[MichaelFarley56]

For what it's worth, I flew my Waiex this morning which is equipped with the AeroVee. Density altitude was nearly 3000' given the temperatures and we are having record high humidity levels here in Ohio.

With me and around 11 gallons of fuel I had an approximate takeoff weight of around 950 lbs. I was seeing climb rates of around 600 feet per minute and cruise numbers of around 125 mph indicated after climbing to 3000' MSL today.

If you're planning on commuting by yourself, the AeroVee will be plenty. After looking at the sectional chart I don't see much terrain between your home base and work airport, and I doubt density altitude will ever be high enough to be an issue. If you can swing it, the extra power of the Jabiru 3300 is always nice, but don't be afraid of the AeroVee for the mission you've stated.

Your biggest issue may possibly be IFR conditions along the coast during certain times of year.

Just my two cents...

[Aldo]

Thanks again Mike! I may need to consider the J3300 as well. While 80% of the time I will be by myself, the wife likes to fly as well. And, she prefers company.