News from WACO Aircraft
WHAT'S NEW AT WACO
July 2020
The Pinnacle of Aviation - FAA Certified
3-Blade Certification
The wait is over – After several years of engineering milestones and flight testing, we announce the issuance of full FAA Certification of the WACO YMF-5F, the new-production open cockpit biplane on amphibious floats.
Based on the Tailwheel YMF-5, the Amphibious YMF-5 is handcrafted by our team of specialized artisans in Battle Creek, MI. In order to be worthy of the seaplane title, several modifications had to be made. A wing walk & step box have been added to the right side and grab handles have been integrated into both lower wings for effortless docking from either side. The frame receives an epoxy coating to prevent corrosion, and all hardware & cabling are stainless steel – ideal for both freshwater & saltwater operation. It is also the only WACO with landing gear controls and doesn’t required a tailwheel endorsement!
Each YMF-5F is well-equipped with a zero-time 300 Horsepower 7-cylinder Jacobs radial engine, a composite constant speed propeller by MT, Aerocet 3400 Composite Floats and all-LED Lighting. Three people can enjoy the luxurious heated cockpits which can be outfitted with Premium Leather, Teak & Holly Flooring, and a full Garmin Glass Cockpit. Two Garmin G5’s, a Garmin Aera 760 GPS, a Garmin GTX-345 ADS-B In/Out Transponder, and a JPI 930 Engine Analyzer are also included in the standard equipment.
Completion of the first Amphibious YMF-5 occurred in late 2017, which has been used as a company demonstrator and test article for the certification process. Delivery of the first certified YMF-5F, S/N 155, took place on Tuesday May 26, 2020. Delivery of the second, S/N 156, took place on Monday July 13, 2020.
Initial performance testing of take-off distance and climb rate have been conducted for the certification of the 3-Blade propeller on the Great Lakes with positive results. Document preparation is currently underway for submittal to the FAA - once reviewed, official flight testing will take place. We anticipate full certification by the end of October, which will allow for 3-Blade installation on new-production Great Lakes, as well as previous variants.
Great Lakes Delivery
Alongside the certification and production of the two first certified Amphibious YMF-5’s, our dedicated team has also completed and delivered the latest Great Lakes on June 19, 2020! This marks the 14th Great Lakes produced by WACO, and is the first to feature the latest avionics package, including a Garmin G5!
Increasing Production
New supply chain and manufacturing processes have been integrated into our entire operation in Battle Creek – Doing so has allowed us to reduce aircraft production time from 16-18 months down to 8-10 months! Additional production square footage provided by our new facility, along with continuous process improvements will allow for further time reduction.
Three YMF-5 Super’s, two Amphibious YMF-5’s and three Great Lakes are currently active in our production process.
Expanding
During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Stay-at-Home Orders, construction of our new campus at KBTL came to a halt. As we are slowly returning to a new normal, and Stay-at-Home Orders have been lifted, the construction team is actively moving forward while maintaining strict procedures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Electricity has been connected, restaurant equipment has been delivered, exterior signage has been installed, and hangar doors are being assembled. We will be gaining occupancy in stages, starting with our new fabrication shop within the next few weeks. FBO and restaurant occupancy is on track for the end of September.
Stay tuned to our website and social media for updates and Grand Opening information!
Restorations
Centennial Aircraft Services is an award-winning antique & vintage aircraft restoration center. Our dedicated team of experienced A&P’s specialize in Airframe Welding, Fabric Repairs & Recovering, Wood/Wing Reconstruction, Painting and Interior Restoration.
Upper wings and the center section of a 1929 WACO RNF are currently being restored, a complete restoration of a 1984 Great Lakes is underway, as well as recovering and painting of a 1977 Great Lakes.
COVID-19
After 7 weeks of closure due to the COVID-19 Stay-at-Home order, our team is extremely excited to be back at the factory to continue sharing our passion for creating unique aircraft with the world.
As a precaution to the safety of our employees and guests, a series of daily screening procedures have been implemented before being allowed to enter our facility. Each individual is required to complete a detailed questioneer, and a facial-recognition kiosk has been installed to check-in, measure temperature, and ensure the use of masks.
Events
With the unfortunate (yet necessary) cancellation of AirVenture, Reno Air Races and NBAA, we are thrilled to announce our participation with US Aircraft Expo. Our team and entire fleet of aircraft attended the USAE event in Chicago (KPWK) on July 24th & 25th. With three new-production open-cockpit biplanes, a full-size display wing and giveaways – WACO Aircraft captivated the entire show audience!
Extremely positive feedback was received at the event, and we plan to represent our brand at the following upcoming USAE events:
Addison, TX (KADS) | 9/18 – 9/19
Santa Ana, CA (KSNA) | 10/2 – 10/3
White Plains, NY (KHPN) | 10/16 – 10/17
Scottsdale, AZ (KSDL) | 11/13 – 11/14
If you are interested in joining us at either of these events, please register at usaircraftexpo.com!
