V-Tail Bo

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author retrieved their V35K Tail Bo aircraft, praising its "sweet" performance and economical operation after their crew chief was reluctant to return it.
  • The article highlights the aircraft's impressive capabilities, including cruising at over 160 knots in comfort, while also being highly economical.
  • The author suggests that the excellent value and performance of older aircraft like their 1959 V Tail contribute to poor sales of new airplanes, as vintage models offer more for less money.
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I picked up the V35K Tail Bo today and flew it back to St. Augustine. Haven’t had it home for a few weeks because my crew chief Tim had it in Ocala. He’s such a hoarder and didn’t want to give it back. After flying it again, I realize why. It’s sweet!

The airplane has such great performance and is so economical. Why doesn’t everyone have one of these in their garage/hangar? It also makes me realize why new airplane sales are not doing well. Why buy a new airplane when you can own a 1959 V Tail for a lot less, and cruise at 160 plus knots in comfort?

pwagstaff

Patty Wagstaff is a six time member of the U.S. Aerobatic team and a three-time U.S. National Aerobatic champion. She flies for the California Department of Forestry during the summer months. In Patty’s monthly column, Let It Roll, she shares observations and philosophical meanderings in and beyond the air show arena as a flight instructor, life adventurer and experience-seeker.
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