Warbird Information Exchange

I realize the B-29 Doc is still in restoration, but any idea who will pilot it once it's ready to fly?

There are a number of pilots qualified to fly FIFI - I assume it wouldn't take much arm twisting to get someone to crew Doc.

Tom P

Tom: If you are pilot qualified for a B-17 would there be much more training needed to pilot a B-29?

B-29 superfort,

I'm in no way the expert here - I'm sure there are others here better qualified to answer this question - I just know that there are multiple pilots for FIFI. When she came to Wendover there was a different pilot for the trip out than the one who flew in. Since the pilots volunteer thier time there maybe 3-4 pilots throughout a tour (correct me if I'm wrong)

My understanding is that the CAF requires at least a multi engine commercial licence with plenty of hours. I would think if someone trusts you with a B-17 that all you'd need to do is check out and then stand in line to get your chance!

Tom P.

Hmmmm,

I used to know one of the pilots for FiFi...a gentleman by the name of Randy Sohn (spelling?). I wonder if he still flies FiFI and perhaps he may get a shot at Doc.

Paul

but the systems are quite different, and considering the number of systems, the type checkout will be a pretty heavy adventure. think fuel system, the pilot needs to spend a bit of time learning how that works ...

B-17 time would certainly help, but don't count on it for any significant decrease in time for aircraft familiarization. the place where it would help the most would likely be in the administrative requirements, notably insurance.

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Rich Miller

Thanks Rich: I wonder how Darryl Greenamyer received his aircraft familiarization with the B-29 for the failed Kee Bird recovery project?

I think he had an unlimited LOA that would legally let him fly just about anything. He would have to self certify I think and do his own research.

With the new system in place for type cert in place of the LOA I wonder how those who held unlimited letters were transitioned ?

You guys are falling into that Hvd IV trap. Stick to what you know. So here's where I don't heed my own advice. Anything over 12,500 lbs requires a type rating. The all pistons LOA is a thing of the past.

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Don't touch my junk!!

and do remember there are three parts to "certification":

1) what is legal - read the law, I make no pronouncements here

2) what is absolutely necessary - almost anyone could fly a B-29 for a few minutes, but in that case Darryl Greenamyer or Steve Hinton would be easy choices

3) what is fully competant - this can take forever - and is what you actually want

confusing 1 and 3 leads to fights with the FAA
confusing 2 and 3 is a truly bad thing for both planes and people

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Rich Miller