We are flying during this winter and so can you!
Flying in the winter months can be lots of fun. If you already have a float plane, you can fly that plane on either snow or ice as well. Replacing wheels with skis takes about 15-20 minutes on average. DU-BRO makes a line of spring mounted and sturdy plastic skis that are ideal for up to .60 powered aircraft (their catalog # 827). A system of 2 skis sells for $19.99, and a single ski with all the parts goes for $10.99 (Tower Hobbies).
In many ways winter flying is easier than other times. There are fewer obstructions, and because of cold air being much denser, take-offs are very short. We currently have around a number of club members that fly in the winter.
When and where do we fly?
Early in the season we stick to snow covered fields, including Pebble Creek. As the ice on the lakes becomes thicker, we fly on several lakes, including the Eastern shore of Pewaukee Lake. We pick days where the temperature is in the 30s or warmer, with little or moderate winds, mostly on weekends. We dress warm and there are several options available to keep your hands reasonably warm. We monitor and track the weather very carefully and make the final decision to fly in the afternoon on the prior day. We currently communicate via phone but are moving towards emailing as well. If you would like to try winter flying, contact Holger Petersen (262-796-1123) or email at: hpandmbp@earthlink.net.
Setting-up in Winter, remember to dress warmly! A variety of models can be flown in the Winter
Toledo Special airborne - note the skis Pulse XT coming in for a landing - note the floats