We Don’t Need No Stinking Runways

By Chris Batcheller

The Sherpa K-650T stands above the miles of aircraft on display at Oshkosh 2009. The airplane is an 8 place bush plane that resembles a Piper Cub on steroids from a distance. Once you get close, it’s clear that this monster has swallowed the Piper Cub, a De Havilland Beaver and possibly a Pilatus PC-6. The airplanes spinner towers above your head and the tires resemble a cartoon from the movie Memphis Belle. 

Sherpa File Photo

The airplane is designed to deliver 3000 lbs of payload to short, rough strips in the middle of nowhere.  At full gross, the airplane can land in 240 ft and takeoff in 336 ft. At gross weight, the airplane climbs at 1400 ft/min and can cruise at 188 mph.  Maximum range is 1500 s.m. burning 36 gal/hr.

Glen Gordon, President of Sherpa Aircraft said “This is all bush plane, and it’s not just an Alaska bush plane” he said. The company has had interest in many other countries, particularly where the terrain is difficult. He went on to note that this airplane can be used effectively by law enforcement, and emergency personnel. Gordon noted that the Sherpa can move a medical patient faster, at a fraction of the cost of a helicopter.

Glen Gordon

Gordon has a plan to get this now experimental airplane certified. “We are going to have 12 experimental airplanes built by customers in our builder assistance center to help freeze the design” he said. Once the design is frozen, the company plans on certifying the beast of a bush plane. The builders must take a minimum of 10 hours of flight training on the airplane, because of the unique abilities of this airplane.

“People are very excited,” Gordon said. “We have been overwhelmed by the reception." The airplane will be offered in various packages.  The kit is expected to be offered for as little as $750,000 to $825,000 depending on avionics and engine.

FMI: www.sherpaaircraft.com