Density Altitude

[Denis]

Hi,
I live near Denver and we routinely see density altitudes of 8,000 - 9000 ft in the summer here.  Can anyone give me an idea of how well the Double Eagle or Cabin Eagle would perform up here? Thanks

[Tom H]

Our DE Stubby lives at 700 ft MSL in Ky.  Summer temps can get into the 90's routinely, with high humidity.  Don't know what the density altitude of those conditions is off hand, but maybe 1500 - 2000 ft?

Stubby is heavy, but has a good running 2180 engine.  With pilot only, it climbs at around 500 - 600 fpm in summer, and, just a couple days ago, with temps around 60 degF, clear and dry, climb was 600 - 800.  Even got a couple 1200 fpm boosts from thermals.

We have not flown two persons yet, but hope to do some trials this fall/winter by adding weight to the right seat. 

At this time, we think the airplane will carry two with cool weather, but still think it would be border-line in the summer.

I have never gone 8000 ft in Stubby, so I can't say how it would perform at your altitude and conditions.

Les Homan in California has done some serious altitude flying in his LE, and pretty much shown that it should fly well at your altitude.

[Denis]

Thanks Tom.  I am considering getting the plans for the DE and have been trying to research it.  It seems like it would be a fun plane.  Unfortunately living up here restricts some of the models that would be viable for me.  I'd hate to spend the time and money on building something that I could only fly part of the year.   Might be only able to fly early in the morning or late evening in the summer here.