Piper PA-25 Pawnee: VH-WGC

Pawnees are very good glider tugs, since they have good climb and descent rates and are rugged enough to land in paddocks for outlanding retrieves. The design was originally intended for aerial crop spraying. Tug pilots appreciate the clear view from the cockpit (important in a busy circuit area) and the aircraft's docile handling.

The Pawnees are capable of slow cross country flights. They have generally pleasant control feel. The cockpit is large and comfortable, if a little drafty.

VH-WGC was recently rebuilt, with much of the work being done by Waikerie Glider Maintenance. It has a 250 horsepower engine and impressive climb performance - over 1000 feet per minute when towing a single seat glider.

Performance
Best glide: about 1:1 at 75 knots
Rate of climb: towing a Twin Astir, 600 - 700 feet per minute at 70 knots, no thermal required

Specifications
Normal category powered aeroplane, conventional (tailwheel) fixed undercarriage
Engine: Lycoming O-540, 250 hp
Empty weight: 723 kg
Maximum takeoff weight: 1318 kg
Minimum pilot weight: 60 kg
Maximum pilot weight: about 500 kg
Maximum water ballast (with hopper fitted): about 500 kg

(Sorry, the club's tugs are not available for hire.)

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