The Lockwood AirCam
The Lockwood AirCam
The Lockwood AirCam is an aircraft known for its unique design and versatility. Developed by Phil Lockwood and his
team, the AirCam was originally created for a National Geographic project. The goal was to build a plane that
could handle the rigorous demands of wildlife photography in remote African regions. It needed to be
lightweight, reliable, and capable of short takeoffs and landings.
The AirCam features a tandem-seat configuration, allowing for two occupants to sit one behind the other. This
design not only makes it narrow but also enhances visibility and balances weight more evenly. It’s a twin-engine
aircraft, powered by two Rotax 912 or 914 engines. These engines provide a good mix of power and fuel
efficiency.
Design and Construction
The AirCam’s structure is primarily made from aluminum, ensuring durability without adding excessive weight.
The wings are high-mounted, which gives it a high lift-to-drag ratio. This makes short takeoffs and landings
easier, an essential feature for remote and rugged airstrips. Its control surfaces, such as the ailerons, rudder,
and elevators, are highly responsive due to the aircraft’s lightweight frame.
Landing Gear
The AirCam comes equipped with robust landing gear. The fixed tricycle gear provides stability during ground
operations. The large wheelbase helps in handling different types of terrain, from grass fields to gravel runways.
Shock absorbers on the main wheels add to passenger comfort and aircraft longevity.
Photographic Advantages
The original purpose of the AirCam makes it particularly advantageous for aerial photography and videography. The
open cockpit design allows photographers to capture high-quality images without obstructive canopies. Its slow
flight capabilities grant photographers ample time to frame and take shots. The twin engines increase safety, an
essential factor when flying low and slow over challenging terrains.
Performance and Handling
The AirCam excels in both performance and handling. It boasts a maximum cruise speed around 90 mph and a stall speed
as low as 39 mph. This wide speed range gives pilots flexibility for various maneuvers and flight conditions.
Its climb rate is impressive, at approximately 2,000 feet per minute when both engines are operational. This
capability is crucial for quick ascents, especially in hilly or mountainous areas.
Pilots can expect a pleasurable flying experience due to its straightforward control systems. The aircraft employs
a stick-and-rudder setup, familiar to most pilots. The dual engines provide added security and redundancy; if
one engine fails, the aircraft can still maintain controlled flight. This redundancy is especially comforting
during over-water flights or remote operations.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel consumption is another area where the AirCam shines. The Rotax engines are known for their fuel efficiency
without compromising performance. Pilots report an approximate fuel burn rate between 3 to 6 gallons per hour per engine,
depending on the flight conditions. This makes long cross-country flights more feasible and cost-effective.
Versatility in Operations
The AirCam’s versatility extends beyond photography. It’s a suitable platform for scientific research, surveillance,
and even recreational flying. Variants equipped with floats can operate from water, further expanding its usability.
Its impressive payload capacity allows the transport of essential equipment and supplies to remote areas.
Maintenance and Support
Maintaining the AirCam is relatively straightforward. The use of commercially available Rotax engines ensures easy
access to spare parts and service facilities. The airframe’s aluminum construction minimizes corrosion issues
compared to other materials. Regular inspections and maintenance routines are simple to perform, making it an
ideal aircraft for operators in remote locations.
Lockwood Aviation Supply offers comprehensive support for AirCam owners. Their team can provide technical assistance,
parts, and documentation to keep your AirCam operational. This level of support is invaluable, especially for
operators who undertake complex missions in challenging environments.
Community and Networking
Owning an AirCam connects you with a vibrant community of enthusiasts and professionals. Numerous groups, forums,
and fly-ins are dedicated to AirCam operators. These gatherings offer opportunities to share experiences, gain
insights, and develop best practices. The community’s collective knowledge enhances the ownership experience,
making it easier to solve problems and learn more about the aircraft’s capabilities.
Buying and Building an AirCam
The AirCam is available in kit form, allowing buyers to build their aircraft. The kit includes detailed
instructions, all necessary parts, and support from Lockwood Aviation. Building your AirCam can be a rewarding
experience, offering a deeper understanding of its mechanics and performance. It typically requires several
hundred to over a thousand hours to complete, depending on skill level and available tools.
The costs involved are variable. The initial kit price covers the essential components, but additional options
like avionics, upholstery, and custom paint can increase the total investment. Financing options and pre-owned
AirCam market availability offer alternatives for those interested without committing to a full build.
Training and Flying
Lockwood Aviation and other specialized flight schools offer training programs for new AirCam pilots. These
courses cover everything from basic flight operations to advanced techniques specific to the aircraft. Given its
unique characteristics, obtaining proper training can significantly enhance safety and proficiency. Hands-on
training with experienced instructors helps pilots familiarize themselves with its handling and performance
envelope.
Innovations and Future Prospects
Lockwood Aviation continues to innovate, improving the AirCam design and introducing new features. Recent models
may include advanced avionics options, like glass cockpits and improved communication systems. These innovations
enhance operability and expand mission possibilities. The company’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures
that the AirCam remains a top choice for various specialized aviation needs.
The AirCam exemplifies how specialized aircraft can meet unique demands. Its design, performance, and versatility
make it an invaluable tool for photographers, researchers, and general aviation enthusiasts. With ongoing support
and a strong community, the AirCam continues to soar in both popularity and capability.