Flying in the System

[craigjackson]

On Saturday, I went out for an over-due gyro flight. This time of year, I'm careful to not fly too low as it's deer hunting season, and I had a friend once tell me that he had me in his sights from his tree stand. I did see a patient looking hunter sitting in his stand along I-65, but quickly departed the area. After following traffic on the interstate for a while, I climbed up to 4000 ft. AGL and contacted Chicago Center (132.95). I identified myself and asked if they could see me on their radar. Chicago radar is some 110 miles from Rensselaer, so I was really curious if they could see me in my little gyro. The controller, asked if I had a transpoder to which I replied, "negative." She asked if I could confirm that I was West of the Jasper County Airport. I replied that I was 3 miles West. She came back and said she had a "primary target" 3 miles West of Jasper Co. airport. She then asked if I wanted "Flight Following." I chuckled and politely declined and ended the conversation. I was surpised that I was offered Flight Following without having a transponder.

I descended with low power all the way back to the airport (3 miles) with altitude left to lose. With the cool OAT's, the performance is really great and makes for some great flying!

[Timchick]

Craig,
What are you flying? Didn't you sell your Sport Copter?

[craigjackson]

Tim,

This is one of the reasons why I sold the Sportcopter.

[Timchick]

Very sweet! How many of those are here in the US?

[Alan Coats]

Wow! That's a really good looking gyro!

Alan

[Friendly]

Now you need to post a flight comparison between the two gyros. That is a fantastic looking machine.

[craigjackson]

Tim, This is the only Sycamore from Chayair-South Africa in the US. Since my purchase, the value of the US Dollar has tanked against other global currencies and the price now is really salty. I would be please to help you acquire one, however.

The Sycamore is like most two place machines. In that, the controls are a little heavier, it doesn't turn on a dime like the Sportcopter. I didn't need two gyros so I sold the one that was the least practical for me. The Sycamore has more fuel capacity for longer endurance, better fuel burn, two people flying and is enclosed. With the installed heater, it really makes for great all year flying. Although, I prefer to fly with the doors removed.

For single, pure flying enjoyment, I really liked the Sportcopter. It is very easy to maintain, pre-flight and control. I would highly recommend the Sportcopter for a beginner or advanced gyronaut.

[scottessex]

dang that is SWEET!

[Rehan K.Janjua]

Hello Craig

Congrats. Lovely looking machine.
Must be real comfy with enclosure and heater etc.
I visited the factory in Joberg a few years back. Really liked the way it looked.

Have fun. Fly safe.

Best wishes.
Rehan Janjua
Air Command Pakistan.

[ben]

Craig
my bouncing betty here want a ride in that lol lol lol

real sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeettttttttttttttt ride ya got there

[craigjackson]

LOL...all bouncing Bettys get priority rides!

[Timchick]

Craig,
I'm not in the market for one now, and won't be in the market for one anytime soon unless I inherit a lot of money. I was just admiring it and look forward to seeing it at a fly-in somewhere.

[AirHorse1]

I gotta post my admiration also. Your new gyro is BEYOND SWEET !! Many great flights to you !!

[StanFoster]

Guys: I had the honor of flying along side Craig and his one and only Sycamore. Both are one of a kind.


Stan

[craigjackson]

On behalf of Chayair Manufacturing, thanks for all the nice compliments on this fine gyro. The aircraft is built to aviation standards and does set a standard that I'm sure will be met with the likes of companies like AAI and others. My only regret is that I'm not able to give the aircraft the exposure it deserves. I have flown it to Mentone the last two years. I have fielded numerous emails and personally demonstrated the aircraft to a small number of indivduals.

I admire gentlemen like Greg Gremminger, Bill Clem, Rob Dubin, Ron Menzie, Garry Goldsberry, Jim Vanek and others who have embraced this small segment of sport aviation and have contributed greatly to the continued success of gyroplanes of all kinds.

I have been very fortunate to have met some great individuals since becoming a small part of the gyro community and look forward to many more memorable experiences. Thanks again.

P.S. Stan, I still owe you lunch and a couple gal. of gas. When you get your Sparrowhawk finished, I'll expect a personal invitation and an opportunity to return the kind gesture.