|
|
The L-39 team flys four Boeing/Aero-Vodochody
L-39C.
| The first of the Patriots Jet demonstration aircraft were
purchased in 1999 with additional L-39 Jets purchased through
2002. The aircraft were disassembled and shipped via truck,
rail and sea in a 40' container from Europe to the United
States. After painstaking restoration by the Airshows America
team, The Patriots L-39 jets were modified for use on the
air show circuit with upgraded avionics systems for navigation
and communications, removal of excess weight for better
air show performance, addition of a 25 gallon smoke oil
system, and removal of their previous paint scheme. First
debuting in 2003 as a two-ship team, the 2004 season saw the addition of a third aircraft creating even more
fun and excitement at air shows. With the success of the 2005 season, the Patriots added a forth jet for the 2006 season bringing the performance to an entirely new level. Sponsored
by Fry's Electronics and Hot Line Construction, the Patriots L-39s have electrified
spectators with fast paced formation flying, choreographed four-ship diamond formation aerobatic maneuvers and and their signature
"Tail Slide" where the aircraft actually
slides backwards toward the ground, something not performed by any other jet demonstration team. Performances highlighted by computerized red, white and blue smoke system are flown by lead pilot Dean "Wilbur" Wright, right wingman Vlady "Mig" Chetverous, left wingman John "Boards" Posson and slot pilot Paul “Sticky” Strickland. |
|
|
Boeing/Aero-Vodochody L-39C
|
|
|
Engine:
AI-25TL 1720 kg (3800 lbs thrust) twin-shaft turbofan jet engine |
|
|
Dimensions:
Span
Length
Height
Wings area
Weights and loadings:
Basic empty weight
Clean A/C takeoff weight
Basic fuel capacity
Total fuel (incl. 2 x 350 l drop tanks)
Fuel consumption (during air shows)
Performance:
Maximum speed
Stall speed (with flaps)
Maximum rate of climb
Service ceiling
Maximum range (10 % reserve)
Maximum range (with drop tanks)
Maximum endurance (internal fuel)
Take off run (sea level)
Landing run (sea level)
Maximum load factor
|
31 ft
41 ft
16 ft
202 ft
7200 lbs
10075 lbs
2160 lbs
3360 lbs
500 gph
560 mph
105 mph
4330 fpm
35000 ft
700 mi
1000 mi
3 hr
1575 ft
1970 ft
+ 8 / - 4 G’s
|
|
