Quote:
Originally Posted by Seahawk
It is a great design, near centerline thrust given the counter rotating props and excellent performance one engine out.
But, with all designs, there are trade-offs:
- Large tail area (empennage) with complex controls and large drag co-efficient. Design also needs to cool aft engine with inlets, adding to drag.
- Complex fuel system to feed for and aft engines.
- Noise and vibration if engines are not in sync.
- Cabin space can be compromised.
- Rough field landings can be tough without a tail.
I love the Skymaster, however. There have been adaptations, mostly in the experimental aircraft association.
Edit: Not a tremendous amount of cruise performance over a single, mostly in gallons per hour.
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I know I don to speak from experience our education, but:
- complex fuel system - why more so than a conventional twin?
- cabin space - isn't this easily remedied with newer designs?
With respect to losing one engine during takeoff, CAN the aircraft take off with just the remaining one?