BeechTalk - BT

Username Protected · **Posted:** 23 Apr 2025, 13:34

I saw this at the Spanish Fork Utah airport yesterday.

Anyone know what the heck it is?

Username Protected · **Posted:** 23 Apr 2025, 13:40

Looks like a Navion.

Username Protected · **Posted:** 23 Apr 2025, 13:44

whatever those "sails" are, the plane is registered experimental-exhibition

Username Protected · **Posted:** 23 Apr 2025, 13:47

Belongs to Flight Level Engineering in SPK.

https://flightlevelengineering.com/

Username Protected · **Posted:** 23 Apr 2025, 13:48

"Variable Stability Aircraft features full fly by wire control system that can simulate other aircraft. Operated by Flight Level Engineering and is used to train flight test pilots and engineers. Used to research advanced flight controls. www.N704VS.com"

Username Protected · **Posted:** 23 Apr 2025, 13:49

Even that plane’s mama would think it’s ugly.

Username Protected · **Posted:** 23 Apr 2025, 15:58

Maybe an optical illusion, but is the visibility down the wings blocked by the extra vertical fins?

I turn downwind to final... Good Luck Everyone!

Username Protected · **Posted:** 28 Apr 2025, 09:19

Back in 1985 or so, I saw this type of system installed in an Air Force C-131H (Convair 580). This NC-131H was operated by the USAF Flight Dynamics Laboratory and the CALSPAN corporation. The aircraft was transiting Luke AFB in Phoenix AZ on its way to Edwards AFB for X-29 (the swept forward wing test aircraft) flight control software testing before the X-29 flew.
I was very happy to have an opportunity to photograph this aircraft. I even got a personalized tour of the aircraft and systems from the aircraft's program manager!

What is this? SPK