Tom Martin
Well Known Member
I know that this has likely been discussed before but the RV14 is a bit different then the other RVs in regard to the canopy release. It would be nice to have a discussion about what will happen if you feel the need to pull that emergency canopy release.
Should this be done only at very low airspeeds, just before touch down?
Do you release the main canopy latch first?
Assuming that the unlatched canopy rises a few inches, as has been demonstrated with other models, when you pull the emergency release what are the chances that this thing will come back and hit the occupants.
What if you release the forward pins before the aft latch? Would the canopy then lift up and flip back without hitting occupants?
Under what circumstances would you pull the release and why?
Smoke or fire in cockpit?
Water landing?
Having a release handle in an aircraft comes with some responsibilities. One would really regret making your outcome worse by pulling the handle!!
I worry about some kid or child like adult just pulling the handle because it looks like something that should be pulled. To that end I have added some brass safety wire from the handle to the panel. I have tested it and it takes a sharp pull to break the wire but it might stop a random curiosity or accidental pull of the release.
Should this be done only at very low airspeeds, just before touch down?
Do you release the main canopy latch first?
Assuming that the unlatched canopy rises a few inches, as has been demonstrated with other models, when you pull the emergency release what are the chances that this thing will come back and hit the occupants.
What if you release the forward pins before the aft latch? Would the canopy then lift up and flip back without hitting occupants?
Under what circumstances would you pull the release and why?
Smoke or fire in cockpit?
Water landing?
Having a release handle in an aircraft comes with some responsibilities. One would really regret making your outcome worse by pulling the handle!!
I worry about some kid or child like adult just pulling the handle because it looks like something that should be pulled. To that end I have added some brass safety wire from the handle to the panel. I have tested it and it takes a sharp pull to break the wire but it might stop a random curiosity or accidental pull of the release.