| | This aircraft was home built by a longtime family friend. I flew in it as a passenger in the early 70's. Judging by the photos of other MiniCab Hawks, the home build included several changes and enhancements, which is in character with the builder. As I recall the pre-flight briefing, the aircraft was equipped with a two-pitch self adjusting prop able to go to fine pitch for takeoff and climb and "return" to courser pitch at cruise. The aircraft was also equipped with retractable gear, operated by a crank in between the seats. He called the system "Virole" retract system, but I'm not sure it was patented or just self-designed and named. The canopy was dual clamshell, and overall, the "hawk lines" were much improved into a very sleek, flowing profile more suggestive of a Globe Swift than of a Hawk. I know of only one photo of the plane and am still trying to locate it. |
by John Ford @ CYRQ
by John Ford @ CYRQ