Finally managed to get the scanner to play ball, so here are all the measurements we took yesterday.

After cutting up the fuselage we attacked it with a tape measure and a pair of scales.  I genuinely think that we now know more about the cockpit than the designers do!

We decided that the best place to cut the fuselage was was behind the wing root.  I can tell you, we got some funny looks when we drove past one way with a whole glider and back the other with half!!

The chances are, if you've found this blog, then you're a glider pilot.  If you're a glider pilot, then you're probably aware of the Blanik L-13 situation.  If you're not heard about this, then here is a rapid summary.  Basically, in June 2010 a wing spar failed during flight, resulting in the loss of life of both pilots.  There are several explanations, but in essence, all Blanik L-13's are permanently grounded until they have had an expensive wing spar modification.  Unfortunately, my club cannot afford it, so both our Blaniks were going for scrap.  Until I had a cunning plan.  What if the cockpit could be converted into a simulator for training use?  Everyone tentatively agreed, and I was left with the entire glider on its trailer to do what I could.  Now, I don't think their expectations are very high, so I'm determined to put my A-level DT skills to good use and end up with a quality product.  I'll keep this blog updated, and if anyone else has a Blanik that they don't know what to do with, then be inspired!!