Finally yesterday 23rd of February weather conditions were perfect for John to maiden his scratch build B52 PSS glider. Winds were gusting to 30mph on the East facing slope of Slieve Gallion and wind chill factor felt like -30 , man it was so cold up there !
John called for me at 11am and of we headed to Ian Robb’s home to collect the Big B52. John was hangering her at Ian’s as it has out grown his work shop. We arrived in Ian’s yard, Pete , Chris, Ian and Kenny were all smiling with delight, poor John was extremely quiet for a change ! butterflies in the tummy I think.
We loaded up the big Lady into Petes Van of of we headed to Moneymore.
Few words were spoken in Johns car and I knew how he was feeling.
A short time later we were on top of the East facing slope and winds were perfect. After a quick chat on were the best landing site was John set about assembling the Big 52.
Ian and Chris were delegated to be the launchers , disclaimer notices were given by both of them, and a wee smirk from John said it all.
Ian and Chris carried out some launch rehearsals and after John had another pee it was time to go to the slope.
The rest is history !
The B52 was a big puppy and John was in heaven. John set the first flight down at the bottom of the slope and once retrieved , he checked her over and set the trims back to center plus adjust the CG aft and away again for some ridge running.
After 15mins John made a pre landing approach and then once he had the feel of her speed he made a perfect landing in the well frozen grass.
Pete has put together a fantastic video , so sit back and enjoy,
I have never seen John P so happy in my life.
WELL DONE JP
