Bearhawk in the backcountry

[Battson]

More flying pics from the weekend.

Interesting story here, one way airstrip about 250m (roughly 900ft) long, slightly uphill. We landed and took a walk around the local area, and when we returned a 15 knot tailwind had picked up for our take-off. Normally the Bearhawk is airborne by the halfway mark, but with the 15 kts on the tail it needed more like 75% of the available length. We decided it was safe enough, as the end of the airstrip is like a ramp, so it would be like flying off the end of an aircraft carrier.

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[rodsmith]

Beautiful country! I am continually amazed at how much NZ looks like Alaska where I lived for 21 years. I definitely need to visit sometime. I had a Maule M5 most of that time and used it much as you use the Bearhawk, lots of great memories.

[Battson]

A couple of photos from a backcountry fly-in over the weekend.
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[SimonNicholson]

A couple of photos from a backcountry fly-in over the weekend.
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Is the back country pilots quite active here?

[Battson]

Is the back country pilots quite active here?

Yes, the association has over 150 members and there are a lot of landings taking place, several thousand per year in total (estimated). We measure the ones on Conservation land, but not the rest.

[Battson]

Big rocks, short landing spot.

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[Persiles]

Some really great photos! Appreciate you posting them!

[svyolo]

Battson:
How does a BH or any plane with big (29 or 31) tires handle that? You have a new and very expensive prop. No worries?

[Battson]

Battson:
How does a BH or any plane with big (29 or 31) tires handle that? You have a new and very expensive prop. No worries?

Provided there's not much air in the tires, big rocks are not much of a problem. There is only a small concern for the tail / belly. The prop is at risk from very small stones, especially thrown by tire tread. The major concern is a much larger rock hidden among the rest, which can be very hard to see amongst a myriad of same-coloured rocks.

[svyolo]

It will be a while before I get that brave. Awesome pics though.

[Battson]

Time for some new video content, while I sit at home with a busted back - wishing I was flying!

[JimParker256]

I always enjoy your videos, Jon. On this one, you sounded so laid back and peaceful... Hope your back heals quickly.

[nichzimmerman]

I hope you heal fast! ...but not too fast that you don't have time to make another video first =)

-Nic

[Battson]

Thanks for all the kind words everyone!

[marcusofcotton]

Very nice, thank you - helps keep motivation up! Sorry to hear about the back, hope it's better soon.

[Nev]

Very inspiring Jon. Hope the back heals quickly ! (I know the feeling )

[Battson]

Not a sponsored post, but I want to provide a huge shout out to Matt Hayes (of NZ) for this collaboration on these photos: https://www.matthayes.co.nz

I would encourage anyone to reach out to Matt if you're interested in showcasing your aircraft.

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[JimParker256]

Likewise, I'm being asked for a password to view the photos.

[Battson]

Fixed the links, thank you.

[robcaldwell]

We can see them now... STUNNING Pics!!!

Love your Hoerner tips, Jon!

[Nev]

Very good. I like the profile pic too.

[Battson]

Thanks Nev!