I wrote to Glasair about the plane I blogged about in Rants and Revelations » Now this is an intriguing idea. Here are some answers I got:
Q. When you say “two weeks to taxi”, what exactly is left before the plane is flying?
A. You will start up your engine and taxi your airplane while here. But, we recommend you do some simple steps for safety before you launch on your maiden flight. All you really need to do is a thorough safety inspection equivalent to a detailed annual inspection, weigh the airplane, complete your weight and balance calculations and then the last step is your FAA inspection, sign off to get your airworthiness certificate. Then you will start your flight test program.
We will provide you with all the detailed check lists for the final safety checks, W & B calculations and flight-testing.
Q. Do you provide familiarization training in the aircraft?
A. You will receive several hours of transition training included with the purchase of the airplane and the program.
Q. What about floats? Do you sell them as well? Can they be added there at the customer build center?
A. We do not sell floats, but we can refer you to a couple companies that make a float that will work well on the Sportsman. We cannot install floats in our program but we can put some of the attachment fittings on while you are here should you make a deal with one of the companies and they can get us the parts.
Q. I’m planning on going to Oshkosh. Is there any chance I could get a flight in a Sportsman, or just a look around one?
A. We will be at Oshkosh, and we invite you come to our booth and see the
airplane. However getting a demo flight there is not as good as getting one here at the factory. Because of the high density of traffic, we cannot allow you do to take offs and landings in that environment, and we simply do not have the time to go to another airport to get you that kind of demo flight. Additionally, we are so limited on the number of flights we can conduct, we try to limit them to people who are so close to making there decision to purchase, that it is the last thing they need to do before placing an order.Therefore, we always recommend that prospective customers come visit us here at the factory. We are near Seattle. Not only will you be able to fly in a more relaxed atmosphere, but you will also have the opportunity to tour our facilities, and see that we are a substantial and credible company that delivers on our promises.
We are even willing to contribute toward the expense of coming to visit should you place and order with us.
I don’t know about you, but I’m convinced. Where do I mail my deposit?
(Just kidding, Vicki.)