How Old Timer Bush Pilots built the First Strips!

In this episode, we dive into the thrilling experiences of landing on steep hills and the process of establishing new airstrips. Our guest shares a captivating story of landing on the bottom side of a steep hill, managing to stop within 50 feet with little tires on a tiny spot. This is a must-watch for enthusiasts of aviation, bush flying, and STOL landing techniques.
Highlights:
Establishing New Airstrips: Learn about the intricate process of scouting new locations by flying over creeks and mountains, making multiple passes to find the perfect spot, and evaluating it under different lighting conditions. This is crucial for any bush pilot looking to create a new bush landing site.
Challenges of Remote Landings: Hear about the multi-trip process involved in remote landings, from initial scouting to dealing with difficult approaches where once committed, landing is inevitable. Whether you're flying a Cessna or a Super Cub, these insights are invaluable.
Equipment Evolution: Discover how advancements in 35-inch tires and new gas shocks have changed the game, making previously unlandable spots accessible. These improvements have revolutionized STOL landings and takeoffs, especially in remote areas like Alaska.
Commercial vs. Recreational Flying: Understand the differences between recreational landings and commercial operations, including the need for longer, smoother strips for safe client transport. This is vital information for any bush pilot using their bush plane for work.
Tales from the Field: Listen to gripping stories of first-time landings in challenging terrains, including experiences with deep mud, glacier landings, and the meticulous work involved in maintaining usable airstrips. These stories highlight the reality of off-airport landing.
Legacy of Aviation Pioneers: Reflect on the legacy of aviation pioneers who braved tough conditions with less advanced equipment and how their innovations have shaped modern bush flying and STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) operations.
Guest Insights:
The critical importance of timing and precision in steep hill landings, especially when flying STOL capable aircraft.
Personal anecdotes of making new airstrips usable and the frustrations of finding them occupied by others. This is a common challenge in bush flying.
The evolution of aircraft landing gear from fragile setups to robust, reliable systems thanks to innovators like Atley Dodge, making STOL landings safer and more efficient.
#flying #bushpilot #bushplane

[@65gtotrips]

35” tires 🛞 !

[@richardturner6278]

Ok I'm showing my southern ignorance but what is a tusex and I probably am not even spelling it right? I assume it's a sinkhole of some sort.

[@AirplanesInTheWild]

Tusock definition:a small area of grass that is thicker or longer than the grass growing around it.
In alaska we are usually referring to bumps in tundra.