The wings are back but it took longer than expected (big surprise?). Problem is that the surface is full of tiny holes that turned out hard to seal. Surface texture sucks up to much matrix therefore the holes. When discussing remedies we even touched the possibility of using gelcoat in the future. Our resistance to gelcoat originates from our perception that it drives the weight and is prone to crack, something we are not so sure about right now. The wings are not fully assembled (something we plan to do while the fuselage is in the paint shop), but preliminary weighing gives figures on or slightly above the target weight of 30 kg (66 lbs). Four kilos of surface treatment on each wing!! What keeps me from going crazy is the look of it, just pure glossy beauty.

Looks like the paint will consume some of the weight saving achieved so far.

 

We will try to keep the paint scheme a secret until the Roll Out and therefore may not show pictures of ready parts. Sounds like it will be mainly words in forthcoming PR’s, but don’t worry, we are just talking two months.

 

The Jabiru engine including cooling scoops imposed a redesign of the upper engine cowl. Believe it or not but the new shape is nicer and is also to what we can understand better aerodynamically, lessening the risk of premature flow separation just up-streams the propeller.

 

Almost everything is about detailing these days, adjusting control systems, cabin interiors, trimming wheel pants and the like. The oncoming Roll Out has some impact on what to prioritize and even if the Seagull will not be ready to fly at that time, it should of course look as ready as possible.

 

Speaking about Roll Out, the pending date right now is 1:st of March 2007. There are many components that need to be considered, not just our ability to be ready in time.

As soon as the date is fixed, we will let you know.

 

In these final days of the year we all at Flygfabriken wish you

 

A Happy and Prosperous Year 2007!

 

Thanks for your interest

Lage

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