But Nemesis NXT Malfunction Doesn't Appear To Have Been Design Flaw

Team Nemesis launched their assault on the Reno National Championship Air Races on Saturday September 11th, 2004, just two months after first flight of the NXT aircraft. The plane rose into the still air of their home field in Mojave (CA), bound for Reno with pilot Jon Sharp at the controls and his wife Patricia in the right seat – her first flight in the NXT. The trip to Reno’s Stead airfield was relaxing for Jon, exciting for Patricia, and a flawless performance by the airplane.

Jon took NXT for it’s first run at the pylons during Monday’s slot for Sport Class planes, posting a moderate unofficial speed of 287 mph in extremely bumpy conditions.  During Tuesday’s flight in calmer air, Jon opened the throttle a little more and entered the course on his first qualifying run. He posted an official time of 324.755 mph - with plenty of throttle travel remaining! Unfortunately, NXT experienced a left main gear malfunction on landing and was unable to fly again. Jon was unhurt.

The cause of the gear failure is under investigation and preliminary indications point to a malfunction of a purchased part rather than a design flaw. While disappointed that he couldn’t finish this year’s air races, Jon continues to express complete confidence in the aircraft and is looking forward to Reno 2005. He believes NXT is one of the best handling, easiest to land, and most breathtakingly fast aircraft he’s ever flown. He’ll just have to wait until next year to prove it.

FMI: www.nemesisnxt.com