In this impromptu episode recorded at Sun 'n Fun, host Gabe Muller interviews Levi B. Noguess Sr., an experienced STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) pilot and flight instructor. Levi shares insights about flying a replica World War II Fiesler Storch Fi 156 in the STOL demonstration at Paradise City. The conversation covers backcountry flying, safety considerations for off-airport landings, and the historical significance of the Fiesler Storch, including its role in Mussolini's rescue during WWII. Levi also discusses his experience as a tailwheel instructor and his approach to teaching safe backcountry flying techniques.

Sound Bites:

Valuable Quotes

1. "The best safety device is you... number one is be proficient in the operation of your airplane."
2. "Most pilots that I found find it odd that you land anywhere but a paved runway."
3. "What we do is we take it to the next level and we just try to find places that are fun to fly."
4. "Thinking you can make it there is not a good plan."
5. "Fly it till you tie it."

Key Takeaways

Safety Protocol for Backcountry Landing:

• Perform high reconnaissance passes
• Evaluate approach and escape routes
• Conduct low passes to assess surface conditions
• Only commit to landing when all factors are evaluated

Wind Assessment Techniques:

• Use constant bank turns to determine drift
• Observe water ripples, trees, and smoke
• Consider uphill/downhill requirements
• Be willing to abort if conditions aren't favorable

Legal Considerations:

• BLM land often allows landing in western states
• River sandbars between banks are typically legal landing zones in Texas
• Private property requires permission
• Public use areas vary by state and region

Aircraft Maintenance and Performance:

• Regular maintenance is crucial for backcountry operations
• Know your aircraft's true performance capabilities
• Book performance numbers are often conservative
• Aircraft must be properly equipped for intended use

Training and Proficiency:

• Regular landing practice is essential (15-20 landings per hour)
• Tailwheel proficiency is valuable for backcountry operations
• Understanding approach and landing limitations
• Continuous evaluation of pilot and aircraft capabilities

Important Links

https://www.flywithlevi.com - Levi's website for flight instruction

Social Media: "Levi Noguess" on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram

https://nationalstol.com/

https://www.smokehousepilots.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hanger Flying Podcast

00:59 Exploring STOL Flying and Its Community

04:22 The History and Mechanics of the Storch Aircraft

07:18 Personal Experiences in Aviation and Tailwheel Flying

10:08 Safety Considerations in Backcountry Flying

14:25 Connecting with the Aviation Community