Transitioning to the Cessna Cardinal

Moving into this new plane has presented a myriad of challenges. First, the Cessna 177 Cardinal is a plane I’ve never flown before and all of my flight training and most of my flying prior to this involved aircraft with the traditional horizontal stabilizer and elevator. The Cardinal has a “stabilator” which combines those features into one control surface. Technically, it is supposed to give you greater control forces because it moves more air.

Here’s the truth: I’m learning to fly her in Colorado. Field elevation is 6,874′ and once the temperature rises a little there’s significant density altitude to deal with. Add to this that my Cardinal has a Lycoming 0-320-E2D engine (150 base rated hp) and you’ll see that getting used to flying up here is, well, unique. The good news is that she has the Powerflow exhaust system which pick up an extra 23hp or so … but the bad news is that I’m already probably only putting out 130 horses at altitude so you can see that the Powerflow exhaust is helping, but not like 180 horses or more would.

It’s all good. She’s the plane I always wanted so I’m very happy with her. It’s just that I’m working three factors right now: new aircraft and type, mountain flying and high altitude. Other than that, “Gar” says I’m on track and since he’s cleared me for solo flight — I guess that I’m okay. It’ll still be a while before I’m totally comfortable, but as with all adventures, it takes a little time.