The VSKYLABS DC-3 is equipped with landing gear skis. In real world, the skis are being installed for operations on snow and ice covered terrain. In the VSKYLABS DC-3, the skis system is an integral part of the aircraft, but can be switched on and off (default state is OFF). Installing/uninstalling the skis is done by using a ski selector handle which is installed below the left-hand side window.
Skis Takeoff:
- Ski takeoff is similar to the normal wheel takeoff. The run may be longer depending upon surface condition. It is recommended to lower the wing flaps to 1/4 DOWN.
- To avoid nose-over, the entire ground run should be made in a 3-point or tail low attitude. Excessive back pressure on the yoke will cause the tail wheels to dig-in and increase friction. To get the aircraft as soon as possible to the air, normally 45 inches MP is used.
- After becoming airborne, relax back pressure immediately and continue accelerating until a safe airspeed is attained. The flaps should be retracted slowly (with short pauses) between 70 and 95 KIAS (speed may vary due weight).
- Note: X-Plane is not simulating true snow/ice when the aircraft is 'off-runway', and takeoff run may be longer when trying to takeoff from a point which is located off-runway (not on an X-Plane 'snow air strip')
- Real life tip (currently not practicable in X-Plane...) - Depending upon snow conditions, it may be advisable to prepare several tracks along the planned takeoff path by taxiing over the length of the run several times prior to takeoff. This procedure is assisting in shortening the takeoff run.
Skis Landing:
- Expect a much shorted landing slide than a normal landing. A reference point should be picked up to aid in maintaining direction.
- It is recommended that half flaps be used.
- All skis landing should be made tail low, and slightly above stalling speed. Immediately upon touchdown, reduce power, hold the control column full back and raise the flaps as soon as possible.
- When landing with low visibility and no horizon, depth perception is difficult when no visual reference points are available. Under these conditions, it is necessary to establish a constant rate of descent and attitude with the use of power and "fly on" at a slow sinking rate until contact with the surface is made in the tail low (3-point) landing attitude).
- Under average load conditions with gear and skis down and half flaps, a descent of approximately 300 feet per minute at an airspeed of 78 to 85 KIAS is recommended.
