Contact us for information about engine suppliers. The FAA inspector also noted that according to FAA records, the pilot did not hold a current FAA medical certificate, but that the airplane met the definition as a light sport aircraft and a current driver's license was appropriate to meet the medical requirements. Affordability, and the info about several of them folding up in level flight have pretty much nixed that plane off my list of potential a/c. Become a builder today and buy now! He and his grandson immediately rushed down to the crash site to find the pilot bloody but alive. He and his grandson immediately rushed down to the crash site to find the pilot bloody but alive. Jacobs patiently gave me a preflight review of the ultralight and provided an approximation of flight qualities that proved to be right on the mark. From the time I accidentally got airborne for its first flight, I couldnt wait to get back up in it. Sometimes first flights arent quite so inspiring as a pilot takes time to master the controls. A photo released by the Sheriffs Office showed the crushed fuselage of the plane against a large tree, whats left of the nose pointing down, the destroyed tail sticking up in the air and the left win nearly ripped off. It was a Hummel UltraCruiser that he'd finished in only five months and 11 days. A couple years later, in the fall of 1979 Morry purchased the plans for Gary Watsons Windwagon. Looking for a 103-compliant Hummel UltraCruiser, USED. Toxicological testing was subsequently performed by the FAA Forensic Toxicology Research Team, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, which identified amlodipine in liver and blood, and valsartan in liver and blood. What grocery stores are open on New Years Eve, Day? Based on proven Hummel Bird design, which has a long history. I had this new plane in the back of my mind for some time. Pasco Fire Rescue says no one else was on board. While I was in the hospital for 5 months, I had time to think. Great mechanic and attention to detail. However, this same feature which I like on general aviation aircraft intended to cruise in a straight line made formation flying for photography somewhat harder. This resulted in several pages being added to the plans and a positive response from builders. Ailerons may be a bit fast for some less experienced pilots. He flies the 37-hp version of the Half VW produced by Casler. He reported a loss of power when he was attempting to land. Its also different from the Rotax 912 series, which run at nearly twice the revolutions. Half-VW engine or equivalent 4-stroke. The aircraft is supplied as a kit or plans for amateur construction or as a complete ready-to-fly aircraft. ORIGINAL STORY: One person was injured when a homemade aircraft crashed in Zephyrhills on Monday afternoon, according to crews that responded to the scene. Engine access comes only after removing cowl. Precision turns to headings were straightforward. Fly Hummel. Flight control continuity was confirmed, but with numerous flight control surfaces separated from the cockpit controls, consistent with impact overload. Hours. The wreckage path angle of decent was about 60 degrees, heading approximately 290 degrees, and the wreckage came to rest in a dense thicket approximately 200 yards from the western edge of the airport property, approximately midfield. Kate passed away in 1989 after suffering a stroke. I knew God had spared my life for a reason. had installed a "mock up" piece in place of the 3/4x3/4x1/8 6061 to allow him I had help along the way from my dear wife Myra and friends. Flying wing as cheap and simple option for basic fun flying. The Hummel Aircraft Company is not involved with any classified ad sales, only promotion and display. "A 30-page step-by-step manual is very complete with all materials listed. James Morris Hummelwas born on August 5, 1915, in Bryan, Ohio. All parts are pre-cut, pre-drilled, and designed to make construction easy and streamlined for new and experienced builders. [1][3][4], The Ultracruiser features a cantilever low-wing, a single-seat open, or optionally enclosed, cockpit that is 23.5in (60cm) wide, fixed conventional landing gear, or optionally tricycle landing gear and a single engine in tractor configuration. The Ultracruiser is a development of the heavier Hummel Bird, designed to comply with the US FAR 103 . "I'm just glad he's not hurt any worse than he is," Porter said, noting he has seen less-damaging plane crashes that still proved to be fatal. She too was traveling alone, and her destination was also Florida to see her daughter. I was told it burns about 2 gallons per hour, which makes it one of the most fuel-efficient engines you can install on an ultralight. -Terry Hallett, MORRY HUMMEL, AGE 85, FLYING HIS ULTRACRUISER, HUMMEL AIRCRAFT COMPANY AQUIRES HUMMEL AVIATION : HISTORY OF HUMMEL CONTINUES. Great builder and test pilot. Hummel is also known for use of VW engine conversions. Pros Half VW engine provides surprising pep on takeoff runs, which are about 150 feet. He received a letter from the FAA shortly thereafter, requesting that he no longer fly a certified aircraft, as he had never renewed his medical after his heart surgery. Cons Rudder response is weaker than ailerons (suggesting harmony shouldnt be as good as it feels). His workmanship was fantastic. The pilot then saw the wing fold. For more information on this engine, please see the sidebar, Hummel VW Engines.. Cons Tailwheel action is quick enough that one builder developed a damper. Accident occurred Tuesday, December 18, 2012 in Calhoun, GA, Aircraft: RUSSOM ROY G HUMMEL H5, registration: N156FH. Q: How many Ultracruisers are flying? Ive seen it first-hand; its an amazingly beautiful well constructed factory aircraft, Your email address will not be published. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed for the local personal flight which was operating under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Roy The Hummel Aircraft Company plans on continuing this legacy of excellence. NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report. Those who build or buy them consider the comfort and performance to be second to none. Four-point seat restraints were appreciated. It simply sounded like a VW Beetle engine running at low revolutions and was a pleasant change from a 2-stroke whine or the higher-rev noise produced by the Rotax 912 series. The UltraCruiser is a joy to fly. In my several trials, they always broke through, dropping the nose, but it was nothing too radical. Designed around 4-stroke power, which many pilots prefer. Contact below for more information. The UltraCruiser was born under rather unusual circumstances. Flight control continuity was confirmed, but numerous flight control surfaces had separated from the cockpit controls, consistent with impact overload. Morrys older Hummel Bird was noted for its ability to roll 360 in 3 seconds. Even the Rotax 277 with its single cylinder produces 28 hp and the lightweight 2si engine yields nearly the same power with many fewer pounds. Hummels harmonized controls were delightful to use and I adjusted to them quickly, finding the UltraCruiser very desirable to fly. Takeoff roll start is surprisingly energetic for a small 4-stroke engine. Myra quickly rolled up her sleeves and dove into the business to help Morry with Hummel Aviation. Anyone have any insight? When a Half VW engine powers the UltraCruiser, it can employ 28 to 37 hp. But Scantlen adds, It has light plane characteristics, in a low-drag airplane.. The aircraft is extremely versatileand maneuverable. But there is no way we would be where we are without some really great people. We are excited to see how far Hummel can go and cant wait to see everyone at OshKosh 2021 (booth 946 in Ultralight Area). I'll be. The aircraft is small and efficient yet rugged, rated for 6G's. The Hummelbird was designed to use a 1/2 Volkswagen. 37HP Hummel Engine with MGL ASV-1. Hummel Aviation also offers the UltraCruiser Plus for pilots weighing more than 200 pounds and taller than 6 feet. The left ventricular wall measured 1.2 cm (normal). Cosmetic appearance, structural integrity, achievement of design goals, effectiveness of aerodynamics, ergonomics. She is the best. Like all other aircraft in the Hummel fleet, the Hummelbird is an all metal construction. If you choose from Hummel Aviations optional parts you will increase your investment in dollars while decreasing your investment in labor hours. Hummel Aircraft Company in Michigan will continue to offer the same quality products for the Hummelbird, Ultracruiser, and H5. The Hummel Ultracruiser (also variously called the Ultra Cruiser and UltraCruiser) is an American amateur-built aircraft, designed by Morry Hummel and produced by Hummel Aviation. No preexisting mechanical anomalies were found that would have precluded normal operation. Circumstances prevented me from flying one of the intriguing little aircraft in the past, but when factory helper Jon Jacobs brought the UltraCruiser to Floridas South Lakeland Airpark, I was ready. CALHOUN, Ga. - Authorities confirm that a small plane crashed at the Tom B. David Airport in Calhoun on Tuesday afternoon. The plans have similarities to those from Fisher Flying Products in that many parts are drawn in full size so you can build directly on the plans to ensure greater accuracy. A spokesman for Pasco Fire Rescue says the crash happened on Paddock Lane near Simmons Road on Monday around 2:30 p.m. Deputies say the pilot reported that he lost power while attempting the land the aircraft and ended up crashing it into a tree. to 75 feet from External Antenna with coax and control stick PTT, Yaesu FT-450L Radio, Kolb KA1 Headset. 37 HP 1/2 VW engine with. He got his pilots license on February 20, 1960. Seat Cushions. Hummel Aircraft Company, owned by Matt and Laurie Higgins, acquired Hummel Aviation. As the first few UltraCruisers neared completion, the plans were redrawn to incorporate changes and improve clarity. Required fields are marked *. I try to avoid it now, though Ill accept such a start from someone who doesnt mind the threat. "Very thankful he's still living," said Harley Hargrove. The pilot/airplane owner plans to recover the airplane for further examination of the airframe and engine. No preexisting mechanical anomalies were noted by the inspector. Hummel Half VW 4-stroke engine, cantilever wing, monocoque construction, mostly enclosed cabin, detachable wings, steerable tailwheel, all-metal coverings. This, combined with the affordability of the UltraCruiser, makes it the most popular among the Hummel Aircraft Company fleet. I once considered a Zodiac as my first kit plane. Quality and quantity for: Coordination; Authority; Pressures; Response; and Coupling. Long before the Rotax 4-stroke became available, the VW engine conversion powered light aircraft. He had used a piece of 2024 .016 sheet Ran well. The private pilot was fatally injured. News & Video on Light-Sport Aircraft, Sport Pilot Kits, and Ultralight Aircraft, February 17, 2004 by Dan Johnson 5 Comments. On returning to his mile-high airport, Hugus found that the UltraCruiser is easy to land and wantsto [land in a] three-point [attitude].. Info on Morry's 1/2 VW Conversions: Casler Telephone: 419-335-2147 Info packs for engines are $2. He installed a canopy on his Mini-Max and put a VW engine in it. Though most customers will regard the UltraCruiser as scratch kit meaning you must obtain many raw material items and fabricate them to the plans Hummel Aviation doesoffer a selection of prefabricated parts. - Vertex Standard Radio with PTT switch also included. Messages that harass, abuse or threaten other persons, such as threats to cause bodily harm, or that contain obscene or otherwise objectionable content, may result in the loss of your posting privileges. Pilots as tall as 6'2" have been able to fit into the airframe. . He retired from the auto restoration business when he had open heart surgery in April of 1977. It was during this hospital stay that he dreamed of the UltraCruiser, Gods Gift,an all metal ultralight. Even with the wind blowing 45 to 60 to the runway, the UltraCruiser was still very manageable, a significant statement for an aircraft he says weighs 249 pounds empty. Is Florida getting another Buc-ees location? The experimental amateur-built airplane was completed about 4 months before the accident and had been flown less than 4 hours by the pilot/builder. Did Brady play his last game at Raymond James? This new design was named the UltraCruiser Plus. wing fold. He located and maneuvered for a forced landing to a field, but allowed the airplane to slow too much, which resulted in an inadvertent stall. All-aluminum airframe, formed aluminum wing ribs, small steel parts. The throttle and mixture controls were at their full power positions, and the carburetor heat control was in the full cold position. The 37-hp UltraCruiser, as tested, possesses the light feel of a genuine ultralight. Stall recovery and characteristics; Dampening; Spiral stability; Adverse yaw qualities. The aircraft was designed with safety in mind, and with it's "G" rating of 4, it proves to be one of the strongest ultralight aircraft around. There is currently approximately 40 H5's flying. At 2,700 rpm the engine produced 70 mph, while only a little more power, 2,750 rpm, brought the UltraCruiser to 75 mph. My fingers and arms are too important to me to risk losing them in an improperly executed prop start. Those keen on remaining within Part 103s low regulation environment can also consider Hummel Aviations CA-2 model. Though the tailwheel lifts quickly and easily, I found that the UltraCruiser showed no tendency to overlift the tail. Celebrating Kwanzaa in Tampa Bay: history, culture,, Everything you need to go sledding this winter, FHP searching for Dade City driver who killed bicyclist, NJ authorities seeking owner who abandoned alligator, Garbage truck strikes woman, 71, critically injuring, Man missing at sea after huge fish pulled him overboard, DeSantis aims to expand COVID-19 protections in FL, Fla. Lottery launches 4 games with over $540M in, Hotbins: Tampa shoppers go wild for resale store. M O S A I C [1][3][5], By December 2011 100 examples had been completed and flown. Some builders will yearn for more panel space for goodies. For detailed history of the UltraCruiser, please view our About page. Once I got down in ground effect, an earlier feeling that the UltraCruiser was sinking rather fast disappeared. ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. (WFLA) - UPDATED STORY: A Tampa pilot is recovering after the plane he built by hand crashed into a Zephyrhills cow pasture. Black Max brakes with dual master cylinder for differential braking. He was bruised all over but he was still coherent and able to talk to us.. The incident was reported at about 3:19 p.m. The crash occurred during the 3rd circuit. In 2003, the Ultracruiser plus was modified to incorporate new changes that made the aircraft easier to build, and more closely match the rest of the Hummel Fleet. Building times are reported to be between 320 and 600 hours depending on what kit the builder is building. But, like all pilots, I make my share of mistakes. The Ultracruiser Classicwas designed to use a 1/2 Volkswagen. Facebook Youtube Google-plus. An autopsy was conducted on the pilot by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Division of Forensic Sciences, Decatur, Georgia, with cause of death determined to be "blunt force trauma of head, torso, and extremities.". Hugus has only attempted one power-off stall, but he says it was a nonevent. Obeying his wifes commands, the owner sold it and Morry had a new project. Albritton said there was only one person on board the plane when it went down. Then if you back far enough, we had Mike Ingram and Tammy Sperling. No word yet on what caused the plane's engine to cut off. I promised God I would tell the world about Jesus. All parts are pre-cut, pre-drilled, and designed to make construction easy and streamlined for new and experienced builders. 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