The F.8L Falco is a two-seat aircraft with comfortable side-by-side seating
for two large adults and provisions for adding a third seat for a 90-pound
child in the luggage compartment behind the pilot and passenger's seats.
The modern instrument panel provides for a complete IFR installation.
A true dual-purpose aircraft, the Falco offers an unbeatable combination
of high-speed cross-country travel with complete aerobatic capability.
Powered with a fuel-injected 160 hp Lycoming, an engine of legendary
reliability, the Falco will cruise at 190 mph. The fuel-injected 180 hp
Lycoming may also be used, providing a cruise of 198 mph and a dramatically
higher rate of climb.
Forty-gallon tanks provide an ultimate range of about 1,000 miles. All
that speed means fuel efficiency -- specifically about 25 miles per gallon.
Normal landings and takeoffs require only 1,150 feet to clear a 50-foot
barrier. The flaps are very effective and allow for steep approaches. The
landing gear is very rugged and is suitable for rough-field operation. The
maximum permissible speed in a dive is 240 mph.
The gross weight of 1,880 pounds provides a useful load of 668 pounds,
ample for two people, full fuel and luggage. The aerobatic weight provides
for the ability to carry two people, one hour of fuel and parachutes.
The Falco is much stronger than a normal airplane, and this added strength
means it is capable of taking loads far in excess of those that a normal
aircraft could stand. Operational limits are +6 g's and -3 g's
at aerobatic weight. The ultimate load factor is 7.8 g's at full gross -- 9
g's at aerobatic weight. The ultimate load factors provide a margin of safety
of 50% over the normal operational load factors.
With a power-to-weight ratio that is lower than most singles, the Falco
accelerates quickly on takeoff. At 1,150 feet per minute, the rate of climb
is brisk. You'll be able to climb rapidly through weather to smooth clear
air on top. |
