long ez john denver

Long EZ: The Plane John Denver Died In

The Long EZ is an experimental, homebuilt aircraft, notably recognized as the aircraft John Denver piloted when he tragically died in 1997. Designed by Burt Rutan, the Long EZ is known for its distinctive canard design and fuel efficiency.

What is a Long EZ?

The Long EZ is a two-seat, homebuilt aircraft designed by Burt Rutan. It is a derivative of the VariEze, another popular Rutan design. The “EZ” in the name refers to its relatively simple construction compared to conventional aircraft. It uses a canard configuration, meaning it has small wings (canards) in front of the main wings. This design improves stability and fuel efficiency.

John Denver and the Long EZ

John Denver, the famous singer-songwriter, was an avid pilot. He owned a Long EZ aircraft that he had recently purchased. Sadly, on October 12, 1997, Denver crashed his Long EZ into Monterey Bay, California, resulting in his death. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report, the probable cause of the accident was the pilot’s failure to maintain control of the aircraft because of his unfamiliarity with the aircraft and inadvertent application of right rudder while attempting to actuate the fuel selector valve which was difficult to reach from the pilot’s seat.

The Canard Design

The canard configuration is a key feature of the Long EZ. Instead of a traditional tail, the aircraft has small wings (canards) located at the front. These canards provide pitch control and contribute to the aircraft’s stability. According to Wikipedia’s Long-EZ article, this design offers advantages such as improved stall characteristics and greater fuel efficiency compared to conventional aircraft designs.

Characteristics of the Long EZ

The Long EZ is known for its long range and fuel efficiency, making it popular for cross-country flights. It typically has a cruising speed of around 200 mph and a range of over 1,000 miles. Builders can customize the aircraft with different engines and avionics, allowing for a wide range of performance capabilities. It’s also valued for its comfortable cockpit and stable flight characteristics.

FAQs about Long EZ

What kind of plane was John Denver flying when he died?

John Denver was flying a Long EZ experimental aircraft when he died in a crash in 1997.

What is a canard aircraft?

A canard aircraft has small wings located in front of the main wings, providing pitch control and stability.

Is the Long EZ a safe airplane?

While the Long EZ can be safe when properly built and maintained, as an experimental aircraft, its safety depends heavily on the builder’s skill and adherence to design specifications.

How fast does a Long EZ fly?

The Long EZ typically has a cruising speed of around 200 mph.

Where can I find plans to build a Long EZ?

Plans and kits for the Long EZ are available through various aviation resources and online communities. However, please be aware the original designer, Burt Rutan, doesn’t support or endorse current Long-EZ building.

Summary

The Long EZ is a unique homebuilt aircraft known for its canard design, fuel efficiency, and long range. While it gained notoriety due to John Denver’s tragic accident, it remains a popular choice among experimental aircraft enthusiasts for its performance and customizable features.