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Date: Tue, 24 Nov 1998 19:26:09 -0600
From: Snowbird <snbird@ibm.net>
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Subject: Re: useful load
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Mark D Jones wrote:
 
> On Tue, 17 Nov 1998 18:49:44 GMT, gcunning@my-dejanews.com wrote:
> >For instance, for a Cessna 172 - the useful load would be 935 lbs. 
> >based on the specs below (2300-1365).

That's a "book empty weight" based upon factory specs. for a plane
with minimal equipment and 1 coat of paint.  The typical C172s I
encountered had actual useful loads ranging from 800-850 lbs (the lower
figure for a full IFR plane, the higher for a VFR plane equipped w/ 
only 1 radio and a transponder).

When looking at published useful loads, as a rule of thumb lop off
100-150 lbs to estimate at the actual useful load in the planes 
you'll find on the ramp--and always check the W&B for the plane
you're actually flying.

> >Just curious as to how much plane you'd really need to take weekend 
> >trips with the wife and kids...

Depends upon the amount of baggage and the size of the kids.  I
have friends with two small children who fly all over NE in a C172,
others consider a C182 or a Piper Cherokee 6 minimal to the job.
Often people who fly smaller planes fly shorter hops and trade 
fuel for payload.

> Most of the figures in your book are at gross weight but
> consider all aircraft performance figures to be wildly optimistic and
> you'll live longer.

AMEN!

Snowbird


