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Post by mstokes on Sept 28, 2009 20:48:57 GMT 12
I suppose the issue is for the operators is what will replace the rebuilt fletchers/hybrids and Cresco's when they run out of hours or simply can't be parts supported anymore? I am struggling to think of a new build small topdresser available at reasonable cost anywhere that would be suitable. And what I mean by production line is the reactivating of the jigs and tools
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Post by fletcherfu24 on Sept 28, 2009 21:14:53 GMT 12
No reason the Fletchers can't carry on for another 50 years.... Of course they could also reactivate the Fletcher production line,a tidied up 300hp wouldn't be a silly idea.But of course there would be a problem with numbers to make it viable,I think theres only around 100 or less active ag aircraft in NZ.
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Post by mstokes on Sept 28, 2009 21:22:55 GMT 12
Yeah... another 50years would be great... actually as long as they can see out my lifetime then I will be happy ;D
I am a big 300 fan, so I would love to see the retro fletcher back... can I place 75 options to get the line going ;D
The truth is though, I will probably get a ride in a brand spanking new fletcher before a Boeing 787...
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Post by Dave Homewood on Sept 28, 2009 21:50:20 GMT 12
I hope you guys are not divulging confidential and sensitive information that should not be in the public gaze regarding these proposed developments. If you are breaking confidences here of a commercial nature, remember you are responsible for the consequences and not the forum.
Did anything ever come of the commuter airliner design that Ossie James was touting to try to get built for Pacific Ilsand ops and places like that? It was in the 1990's, and he was sure he was onto a winner and it would be produced in Hamilton. From memory it was twin-engined. This was a little before the PAC750 came on the scene.
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Post by mstokes on Sept 28, 2009 22:35:31 GMT 12
Nothing I have stated is of a confidential nature Dave, most operators are aware of the issues and some of the proposed developments are influenced by the operators. I just prefer to keep names of those I speak to confidential, as they have never stated to me these comments with the knowledge they could be published, and my journalistic ethics dictate that those who do not go on the record should not be named.
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Post by Fletcher400 on Sept 29, 2009 1:32:23 GMT 12
Love to see the fletcher re introduced, time will tell I guess. Maybe they will once existing ones airframe hours have expired. But for some reason I have a feeling they wont. Excellent overall design, although some tail end alterations will need to be revised structually. I bet once all the fletchers have gone the new design in the future will still be fletcher based. Its proven, it works. Dont monkey with it.
I have heard though, that they still will make one for you on a special consignment order. Although if they think they will get away with charging what they do for a Cresco then they are dreaming. Its little wonder why operators are holding onto existing aircraft as well as the current economic climate. Even so though, its sadly been dying since the subsidy removals of the 80s.
I agree with Mike, the x/stol is a great aircraft - Ugly as hell but good for what it does. As time goes by and governments change and economics to primary producers vary, this will be the main underpinning issue regarding the future of agricultural aviation in NZ and future designs, As long as the manufacturers dont let greed get in the way and keep it realistic.
In the meantime Im very happy to have grown up in the era to witness the original piston engined fletchers working.
Cheers.
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Post by vgp on Sept 29, 2009 9:27:24 GMT 12
3 News item
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Post by mstokes on Sept 29, 2009 18:03:00 GMT 12
That news article was quite good I think. Lovely to see all those aircraft there to celebrate EMX's birthday ;P
I certainly hope that NZ and the aviation manufacturing can take off (pun intended), rather like South Africa (car industry... where all our Merc's, BMW's and VW's come from) we could offer first rate manufacturing in quality and workmanship with a good cost differential compared to European and American markets.
I hope PAC and other NZ manufacturers have a very bright future. I should be able to slip that fletcher order in at about prospecitve order number 838 and find out how I will pay for it in the next six years ;D
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Post by corsair67 on Sept 29, 2009 19:08:15 GMT 12
Maybe by the time the last Fletchers are ushered into retirement, all ag work will be able to be undertaken by aerial ag UAVs?
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