Great Machines: Aircraft - Lancair Columbia 350
June 2, 2003
The 550-cu-in, 310-hp Continental engine gives strong climb performance on takeoff, and it allows the fixed-landing-gear Columbia a usable cruise speed of over 185 knots (214 mph). It is among the fastest single-piston-engine aircraft, in spite of its fixed landing gear. Its 98 gallons of usable fuel allow a cruising range of over 1,100 miles.
In flight, the side stick control has a reassuring feel of stability, making this aircraft a fine instrument platform. Pitch-and-roll control inputs are nicely balanced, and control forces are trimmed via a single thumb button on the side stick.
The avionics suite of the Columbia demonstrator features dual GPS systems coupled with a large display panel showing all navigational criteria, including en route and instrument approach charts. An S-Tec autopilot with altitude preselect, Stormscope weather avoidance, and Bose headsets complete the package.
With its excellent handling qualities, superior speed, and simplified non-retractable landing gear design, the Columbia 350 makes an excellent first aircraft for the pilot looking for fast transport and freedom from airline delays. As equipped, the Lancair 350 is priced at $346,000.
Lancair Certified Southwest, 888.526.2247, www.lancairsw.com
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