Stéphane Lee

P3X is my code name for a homebuilt airplane project. It can fly three times faster than a car and without getting a speed ticket. I am still studying and researching my options in building an airplane. Before starting the project, I must know that I can finish it and in how many hours. With the advancement in technology, I do not want to fly an airplane that is as old as or older than me (30+). The basics of aerodynamics remain the same. But a thirty-year old sheet of metal is quite old although they are properly maintained and safe. I have compiled a short list of airplanes that fit my profile and that are sold in kit: 2 or 4 seats, single engine, fixed landing gear, 700-900 lbs useful load, min. 100kts cruise speed (185 km/h), 800-1000km range. The kit provide only the body. You have to add an engine, the electric and avionics equipment. It is literally your choice.

I’ve made some notes on things to have or to do:

• Take rudder building class. The rudder is the initial component that you usually build.
• Talk with fellow builders in the area.
• Remain with proven aviation engine. Do not use auto engine. Used, overhauled Lycoming engine OK for example.
• Panel: Auto-pilot, GPS, angle-of-attack indicator, engine cylinder monitors, oil heater, night VFR (IFR optional), long range fuel tank, audio intercom panel. No oxygen.
• Prime internal parts with non-cancerigenic material.

I am fairly confident in the basic mechanical building process (cleco, rivet, deburring…) now but I am less familiar with the engine, avionics and electrical system so far (I did not know what was a cleco six months ago).

This project will be re-evaluated regularly during 2008. I have more to read and research.

The taxiway was quite busy with up to 4 planes lining up for takeoff and other planes in the pattern wanting to land. It was my maiden flight in a small Cessna 150L in which I feel cramped (for my size). The wind was gusting up to 20 knots (37km/h) and there was only one active runway. I did not get the opportunity to take more pictures in flight since I was the pilot in command and we experienced some turbulence. I have to evaluate if I want to spend 50 hours in this plane.

Saturday, I’m supposed to clean the garage and paint the floor with epoxy. It should be nice and clean. In the morning, I’ll call some ppl so check the ppl courses and rates. Evening, there’s the LM party (20th anniversary). We’ll see how the Mauricana people have progressed since.

Project 3X is the codename of a new project I’m starting. Very few people know about this (so far). I think it is the ultimate geek project. I am actually in the feasibility and planning phase.

Project 3X will need about 1500 man hours, electronic components, some light mechanical tools and some principles learned in Physics class, and it will be 3 times faster. Due to the amount of resources to be invested (manpower and money), I have to study all the implications and establish a modus operandi (clever word for mode of operation).

To be continued…