Saturday, June 07, 2008

Auckland Quick Visit #3: Thunder Mustang

Third in this Auckland Quick Visit series, and my second big stop was to catch up with Rob Burns in Kiwi Thunder's hanger at Ardmore. Rob Burns is one of the record setting pilots who set the Auckland to Christchurch speed record in its class last year. I left Auckland about 2.5 years ago, and this has been my first opportunity to get up and personal with this stunning aircraft.

Even after a couple of years flying this aircraft looks immaculate in all respects. In many ways, it could have just come out of the showroom. Obviously, being hangered helps a lot with this, although I imagine that they must also have an attitude of [almost] no expense spared.

Rob allowed me to sit in the cockpit, and this was the first big challenge - how do I get in? It's a snug fit [to say the least], but still very comfortable. I was surprised by the visibility from the front seat [Rob says that the back seat vis is even better]. You'll see from the cockpit shot that everything is well laid out. BTW - that hole at the bottom of the panel is the hole for the GPS.

The second big challenge was to avoid looking stupid when my photo was taken. The helmet didn't help... Well, I got into the cockpit ok :-)

All in all, a very good evening, good drink and great conversation and catchup! Thanks Rob!

Thunder Mustang Hanger DoorsThunder MustangThunder MustangThunder MustangThunder Mustang

3 comments:

Nicks BIGSKY Aviation said...

We heard it go over the other day close to the Mountain. Brett E was doing a type rating in it so he can give type ratings in it.

In Short Stratford CFI called Brett and Brett said ya wanna come for a ride. Well he was in that car of his and of to Bell Block in record time........ Wouldn't you.

Chris Nielsen said...

Rodney: I dunno if you will get this note seeing as the post is quite old, but... I was hoping you could put me in touch with the Thunder Mustang guys - we were hoping to have one or two of them speak at our annual dinner and I thought you might be able to point me in the right direction

Rodney said...

Hi Chris,

Yep, I get to see commentson all posts, no matter how old :-)

I will send you an email once I have talked to someone. Do you have my email? I can't seem to find yours :-)

Cheers,

Rodney