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FLORIDA JETS
This giant sport jet was
designed by Alan
Cardash and impressively
flown by Ali Machinchy.
The "Big Boomerang"
demonstrated IMAC-type
routines.
to an almost stopped, high Alpha slow-flight demo that was amazing
to watch. All of this was performed within a small area and
below the low overcast deck.
VISUAL TREATS
Attendees of this event were also treated to a number of models that
were appealing from a purely visual standpoint, either because of
the subject itself or the unique way it was presented. Some of the
prettiest sport jets you can imagine were on hand, and it was clear
that these guys were more than willing to trade scale detailing time
for paint application and preparation hours. Typifying the breed
were the BVM Bandits by Vern and Larry Kramer, impeccably done
in "Red Baron" and "Miss Budweiser" schemes. Larry's "Red Baron"
has more than 325 flights on it, and it still looks better than many
newly finished models. The
finishes on some of these
jets were absolutely flawless,
and the color schemes were
exciting, dramatic, highly
visible and, in some cases,
practically works of art.
Pat McCurry's (PCM
Models) new AV8TR turbine
trainer might just be
the entry point for turbine
beginners. It features allwood,
simple construction
and fixed gear. Pat's prototype
was even MonoKotecovered.
Although it didn't
fly at the meet, I was told it
flies well and might end up
being the Ugly Stik of the
jet movement!
Erich Himmler and
Viktor Casut, both from
Switzerland, fielded a pair
of gorgeous D.H. Venom
4O MDDEL AIRPLANE NEWS
Mk.ls, which performed beautifully. The detailing was
superb, the finish was excellent and the flight speed was
just right; further proof that larger models, both sport
and scale, are becoming more popular.
Large, unorthodox and slippery-looking was the Rutan
ARES designed and developed by Kerry Sterner. This
Simjet 2300-powered model weighs just under 24
pounds and was one of two present; the other, by Jay
Smullen, was finished in matte black as it was in the
movie "Iron Eagle II." Since it has been around eight
years and has more than 150 flights, Kerry decided to
retire the prototype, but word is that it might be
released as a kit in the future.
CHANGING TIMES
Florida Jets is now in its sixth year, and this was the
third time I attended. All I can say is that the turbine
revolution that began three or four years ago is no longer a revolution,
but the norm in jet circles; so much so that I only saw
three ducted-fan models fly all weekend. This year, a variety of
engine manufacturers and importers were represented, including
RAM, JetCat, AMT, Simjet and SWB.
The introduction of the new, smaller turbines offers some great
opportunities for modelers who want to become involved in jets.
A lot of former ducted-fan fliers are letting their models go for very
attractive prices because they want to "step up" to the larger turbines.
But ducted-fan models' airframes are ideal for installing the
new generation of smaller, 11- to 12-pound-thrust turbines.
Above: Eric Rantet from France designed this Aviation Design F-16, and
Gustavo Campana finished It In the unique European "Tiger Meet"
markings. Below: the F-100F Is the newest model from the BVM factory.
If you think this Hun two-holer looks good, you ought to see ft ttyl