{"id":21478,"date":"2020-12-28T14:45:23","date_gmt":"2020-12-28T18:45:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hartzellprop.com\/?p=21478"},"modified":"2020-12-28T15:32:17","modified_gmt":"2020-12-28T19:32:17","slug":"choosing-an-airplane-for-backcountry-flying","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hartzellprop.com\/choosing-an-airplane-for-backcountry-flying\/","title":{"rendered":"Choosing an Airplane for Backcountry Flying"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Backcountry flying is growing in popularity as more pilots discover the rewards of flying into remote areas accessible only in a light airplane. As any adventure-seeking pilot will tell you, there\u2019s nothing like the joy and freedom of escaping the world of paved runways to fly over the wilderness, land on a grass airstrip, and camp under the stars.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re new to backcountry flying, you might be wondering what airplane is best. While you don\u2019t necessarily need a tailwheel or STOL airplane to experience this type of flying, there are some factors you should consider before embarking on a backcountry adventure.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Location, location, location<\/strong><\/h2>\n

There are hundreds of backcountry airstrips spanning the country. Where will you go? If you need ideas, check out the Recreational Aviation Foundation\u2019s Airfield Guide<\/a> to explore out-of-the-way airports and unique places that most pilots don’t know about. You\u2019ll find detailed, up-to-date information about each airfield, including photos, recommended approach and departure procedures, and activities to do once you get there.<\/p>\n

While some airstrips are limited only to airplanes that can land on rough terrain and very short distances, many areas are accessible in a standard single-engine piston. The key is to choose a backcountry airstrip that aligns with your skillset and your airplane\u2019s performance envelope. As you plan your flight, find all the information you can about the airstrip\u2019s surrounding terrain, runway length, elevation, slope, and surface condition to help you make a safe, smart decision.<\/p>\n

Backcountry upgrades and modifications<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The right upgrades can help transform your airplane into a true backcountry machine, allowing you to get into more challenging and remote airstrips. Common modifications for backcountry flying include:<\/p>\n

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  • Bushwheel tires. <\/strong>Also called \u201ctundra tires,” these tires are large and low in pressure to allow safer operations on uneven or rocky terrain.<\/li>\n
  • Short takeoff and landing (STOL) kits. <\/strong>These kits are designed to provide better lift and low-speed handling by altering the leading edge and changing the camber of the wing.<\/li>\n
  • Vortex generators (VGs). <\/strong>VGs are small tabs that stabilize airflow over the wing. Adding VGs lowers stall speed and improves slow-speed handling, allowing for higher angle of attack.<\/li>\n
  • Climb propellers. <\/strong>Once you get into a remote landing area, you have to be able to get back out. For this reason, many backcountry pilots opt to upgrade to a climb prop, a propeller that\u2019s designed specifically for low-speed thrust, takeoff, and climb performance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\t\t