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SW Aviator Magazine
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3909 Central NE
Albuquerque, NM 87108
Phone: 505.256.7031
Fax: 505.256.3172 |
| publisher@swaviator.com |
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| The Maverick TwinJet |
| story and photos by Don Mickey |
When I was learning to fly, my first impressions of experimental aircraft left a distinctly negative taste in my mouth. I noted two main types of experimental airplanes: the cloth and chewing gum model, powered by a handful of hamsters, and the landing craft from an outdated, low-budget, futuristic sci-fi series. I used to watch the strange vehicles buzz overhead and smirk as I walked to the 30-something year old craft I would be piloting; an airplane proven by tried and true, albeit unimaginative and stagnant, manufacturing processes and years of use.
As I matured as a pilot, however, the ideas I had about experimental aircraft evolved. I began to see them as an important force in the evolution of the aviation industry.
The men who helped shape general aviation, such as Walter Beech and Al Mooney, were the experimental aircraft designers of their day. They took existing aircraft designs and manufacturing ideas and reshaped them to satisfy the need for progress. The torch has been handed from these innovators to the bold, creative, persistent men and women who continue to push the limits in experimental aircraft today.
Maverick Air, Inc., located at Fremont County Airport, Colorado exemplifies this spirit. The company has introduced the TwinJet, a five-place light twin turbojet, composite kit plane you can build yourself.
Maverick Air has also taken a push-the-limits approach to the TwinJet. They rely upon proven technology, but take an innovative approach to the application of existing methods and aircraft components.
For instance, the TwinJet’s composite construction is delivered to builders in sections manufactured from pre-preg fiberglass and vacuum cured under high temperature, eliminating the wet composite construction common with some kits. This simple approach helps provide the builder fast assembly while keeping the aircraft integrity and weight consistent.
Through another simple, yet often overlooked method, Maverick Air has solved one of the key issues hindering many aircraft companies–the powerplant. The T-58 engines used on the TwinJet have a proven track record of performance on Hughes 500 helicopters. The engines are converted to a direct thrust system, providing a readily available, reliable power source.
The outcome is a kit plane that is easy to build, using reliable, proven components and construction methods. The TwinJet truly demonstrates the value of experimental aircraft. Learn more about the Maverick TwinJet by logging on to www.twinjet.com or by calling 719-784-0255.
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The material in this publication is for advisory information only and should not be relied upon for navigation, maintenance or flight techniques. SW Regional Publishing, Inc. and the staff neither assume any responsibilty for the accuracy of this publication's content nor any liability arising out of it. Fly safe.
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