High Altitude Flying

[Mike Sullivan]

When I was in the inquiring stages, one of the questions I asked Todd was about the availability of a turbo in an IO470 engine. Flying over the Tehachapi's the other day at 9500 full throttle produced only about 20 inches of MP. I know many of you have (do fly) the Rockies and that's what I want to do, but now there is some question in my own mind if my plane will be able to climb to the 13500 or 14500 feet I'll need to make some of the crossings. Obviously I haven't tried to get her up that high yet but am thinking about it.

Any comments or insight?

Mike

[kwmoore]

I have had my 260se to 12,500 several times, even in summer, with no difficulty. It performed very well, never less than 600-700 fpm getting there and low-mid 140s KTAS cruise. We were at least 250 lb below gross, our typical departure weight. I myself noticed a few altitude symptoms, mostly feeling "slow" mentally. I also got rather thirsty during these flights.

Glen is a high-flier in 2099X, 15000+ I hear. Jonathan Dubrovner has cruised Dean's 21396 at 17000+. Perhaps they can offer their experiences.