Bi-plane Bucket List Flight

US NAVY N2S STEARMAN

On June 23, 2012 one of my "Bucket List" wishes happened. I flew in a Stearman bi-plane on my thirty-third wedding anniversary. My terrific wife Dorothy found it for me. "The N2S Stearman was a primary trainer during WWII, many allied pilots during the war got their first flight time in the Stearman." Mine was originally built in 1942.

Walking To The Stearman

During my pre-flight briefing I was carefully trained and listened with heightened acuity as I was told how to actually fly, bail out and work the circular WWII-esque parachute. Instructions were also given at the plane where to step, grab and so forth. I was surprised to discover the exterior was mostly fabric. The pilot is standing on a black strip on the wing. No fabric here; wood instead to support weight.

Co-Pilot For An Afternoon

In flight I was given the opportunity to move the joystick and rudder pedals. At first I hardly moved them at all - almost frozen lest I over steer and send us crashing into the earth. That would have been hard to do since the pilot was behind me ready to take over the controls if I erred.

Adjusting Parachute Straps

When asked if I wanted to bank to the right I said yes. This involved moving the joystick to the right, pushing down on the right rudder pedal and also pulling back on the joystick to keep the nose up. Three things plus watching the horizon compared to the front of the aircraft. After banking to the right, I did the same to the left. It was easy but of course the first time I was extremely cautious but trusting in the pilot and the aircraft.

Thumb's Up.  Ready For Takeoff

Later the pilot did what I thought was a barrel roll. Not sure but that is what I thought he said over the mike. I declined the offer to control it. This involved banking a lot, pulling back the joystick to go up and then diving steeply flying in a tight circle. We did two to the left and two to the right. Exciting stuff. As I looked outside the aircraft my body was horizontal to the ground. I could not fall out but thought about it.

We sped along at roughly 2,000' averaging 80-85mph, it was a warm day and it was just marvelous. I thought you might enjoy the story and photos. Roughly a forty-five minute flight time.

Just lovely, isn't she?

Respectfully,
Bill

Closing Remarks

1. To fly the Stearman or several other aircraft west of Chicago, IL USA, see:

http://www.gauntletwarbirds.com/

2. What's next? Fly in Aluminum Overcast, a B-17 based in Wisconsin USA.

3. Comments welcome as always below.

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