Came home from Vietnam a paraplegic and needed something to bring me back to life. A friend offered me a ride in his Cessna 150. After the flight I saw this cute little airplane for sale and found out it didn't have any rudder pedals. I bought the Ercoupe had to modify the brakes. My Ercoupe N87101 was the very first Ercoupe to have disc brakes with a FAA STC. I flew that little plane during some of the best times of my life. After 15 years I failed my FAA physical due to high blood pressure and lost my medical card. My wife and I also had two kids to raise. That little plane is a big reason I didn't end up a drunk, or on drugs or dead.
In 1968 My father bought a 1947 Ercoup while he was serving on a B-52 crew at Blytheville AFB in Arkansas. When we drove out to see it for the first time it was sitting in weeds 6 ft. tall and needed a lot of work. He paid $900 for it and boy were we excited to own an airplane. In 1969, my brother and I squirmed into the seat next to our father and flew it to N.C. when our dad left the Air Force. And as time went by we worked to perfect this aircraft into a better than new example. In 1974 my dad and I flew her from NC to Oshkosh, Wisconsin where we won Best Ercoup. My dad's name was Mitch Cooke and he flew this plane out of Twin Lakes airport in Mocksville, NC. We had a lot of fun with this project, and now looking back I think these were the best times spent with my dad. He served our country and he had a great time flying. And I had fun with the easy to fly Ercoup. What a great airplane. I hope N-3265H is still out there somewhere. My dad is passed away and I'm almost 60, but those memories will never fade.
I ran the N number and it says your dad sold it in 1975 and it went to Canada. Without knowing it's Canadian registration, I cannot determine it's history since.
A friend from Iowa gave me my first Ercoupe ride, in a 'G' model around 2008. I earned my sport pilot license, in a 'C' model (N3174H) in 2011. By the way, I'm disabled - from polio - and can't walk. But thanks to Fred Weick, and the Ercoupe, I can fly.
Congratulations my friend!!!! Flying sets you free & I’m sure that’s what it’s done for you!!! you make me smile today!! also my heart 💙 & wings go out to you Michael!!!!!
@Neil Carpenter I remember an Oscar Brand album of aviation-themed songs from back in my childhood. In one song, "Light Planes On Parade", the Ercoupe (by then renamed the Aircoupe) is mentioned: *"The Aircoupe's just a flying car, except it's got no doors;* *It's made with built-in bravery they never sell in stores.* *It doesn't have any pedals, so it drives your feet insane;* *That's the reason why, if you want to fly, you can always find a plane!"* ua-cam.com/video/kqvMR4Q4kLk/v-deo.html
Hi Don My Uncle, Flight Lieutenant Harold Newton DFC Flew an Ercoupe Across the Tasman Sea from Australia to New Zealand after WW2. I believe it may have been the first single engine crossing. Harold by the way flew The DeHavilland Mosquito after transitioning from the Bristol Beufighter. An interesting story of Harold flying the plane from Europe across the top of Africa and The East, down to Australia. Harold passed away some years ago but His family had tracked down and bought the plane and restored it.
Glad I found this! I used to ride my skateboard to South Columbus Airfield and watch all the time. One day an older gentleman was trying to pull his plane out of the hanger but couldn't get it past the door guides. He yelled over to me, Hey Kid! Can you come give me a hand? I was about 15 or so and gleefully said yes. He showed me where to grab on the prop and we pulled it out easily. He asked if I would like to go for a ride and I yelled yes! Soon thereafter we were doing circuits over my neighborhood. He let me fly it some too! This was around 1979 or so. South Columbus airport was very active for a while, and I pretty much watched planes in the pattern over my house all day. Thanks for this memory and preservation of a legendary aircraft.!
My dad flew me and my mom from west Texas to San Francisco when I was about 2 (I'm 72 now and he's 96). He told me I spent a lot of the time on the floorboard under my mom's feet during the trip. Another thing I remember is him telling me how he had to circle and circle to get over the mountains. He flew F6F's in the Pacific and owned at least 3 other planes the I can remember (Cub, Tripacer, 182). Thanks for your story.
After 43 years in aviation, this is one of the best documentaries I've seen on a light aircraft model. Thank you Don and your team, for putting this all together and making it available for us all to enjoy, I learned a lot about, and have a much greater respect for, an aircraft that I always felt was pretty darn cool. 😊👍🏼🙏🏻
My first flight, at the age of 14, was in an Ercoupe. In my memoirs, I describe the takeoff thusly: The transition was magical. One instant we were a high-speed tricycle, rumbling and jouncing across the pasture. The next we were a graceful aluminum bird floating through the air, wings dipping slightly back and forth, nose climbing above the horizon, the rush of air around the canopy accompanied by the constant drumming of the engine. I looked out the right side and watched as the ground sank away under the wing, the fence and power lines at the end of the pasture passing beneath us. I was flying! And I was hooked for life.
I loved my Ercoupe. I believe it would be worth mentioning that the fuel system was operated by pumping fuel from the wings to the center gravity flow center tank. If you lost a fuel pump, you still had a full center tank. Thanks for a wonderful video.
This video brought back some wonderful memories. My father owned a 1946 Ercoupe and taught me how to fly at 8 years old. His Ercoupe is still around today. I researched the tail number and found its location. Thank you for this wonderful video.
Great video. I learned to fly in a Champ and retired as a 747 Capt. Any Ercoupe is a welcome site on my airport. They're an important part of General Aviation history.
Indeed! Years ago my brothers and I were at the EL Toro MCAS, I believe...don't think it was at March AFB, for the annual air show. Jets and warbirds spanned the tarmac. We found a beautiful polished aluminum Ercoupe, a sight of joy! Just had to go for a close long look. My father flew with all of us in N3134H, a 1946 415-C, when we were wee lads. Seeing a pristine Ercoupe that day was beautiful. The owner was surprised at our excitement over his bird.
My father had one. I flew in it many times. When I was 10 he would let me fly it all the time. In a good headwind you could go backwards over the ground. Dad used to joke the Ercoup didn’t have an airspeed indicator it only had a clock.
Great story! I first flew this plane In 1948 when I was 8 years old. My first flight. I was forever hooked on aviation and now after 25,000+ hours starting with the Navy and then United airlines have this airplane to thank. JC
Wow!!! I'm (almost) speechless. Tremendous research about a lesser known craft that still flies in safety today. Way ahead of its time, beautiful in a vintage 1950's sort of way, a classic craft treated poorly by the GA community at large. It really is a designed safety craft that MANY of its ideas should have been incorporated into newer craft over time. Thank you so much for a well covered history of the 'lil Ercoupe- past due recognition for an airplane ahead of its time!
I enjoyed this. Thank you! I was born in 1940 and grew up near a private airport, Pearson airport, in my hoimetown of Vancouver, Washington. Seeing the special look of the Ercoupe flying over is one of my tender childhood memories. Thank you again!
My first "ride" was in a Ercoupe around 1964, hung out at the local airport and was able to get rides from time to time. I still remember that first ride and from then on I was hooked at 12yoa. and have had a lifelong passion for flying. Great story on the Ercoupe.
Thanks for making this documentary of the Ercoupe. It brings back fond memories of flying both examples (with and without rudder pedals) as a kid. We had both at the FBO where I worked as a line boy and my boss would let me fly them pretty much whenever since they were a “blight on the industry “ and no one else wanted to. I thought they were a blast to fly and I enjoyed every minute! Thanks again for the memories of a really beautiful little plane.
BRAVO!!! Excellent video! As an aircraft maintenance engineer in Canada, I had the pleasure to annually inspect only one of these treasures, but gained an appreciation for the simplicity and ruggedness of the design. I'm retired now, but remember the 'coupe fondly.
My dad had an ercoupe . At the age of 3 I remeber him blowing up balloons amd throwing them outside via the open canopy. He has a tight grip on the back of my pants as was standing on the seat. With no rudder pedals i could fly around and pop all the balloons! Once we had one foul the oil cooler and had to land. It was a simple fix but my mom put a stop fo it... Ill never firget my dads face as i fold her all about it. I remember his ercoupe had its wings changed to metal from fabric and he would navigate with something called a superhomer. Thanks so much for this great video. Blue skies!
I'm not a pilot but am an avid airplane enthusiast. To me, the Ercoupe has the most pleasing to the eye lines of any light aircraft. I've built two models of it. Excellent video!
Were they flying models? I'm returning to building models after a 30 year layoff. Stick and tissue, rubber powered and now I'm going to look for some plans.
I did very much enjoy this video. I have been a type 1 diabetic since 1966 and fell in love with the Ercoupe at the Santa Paula, CA airport. They had one for sale and I was making arrangements to purchase it in 1985. The sales rep said you should call the FAA and see if you can get a license. I did and they just laughed at me. Things have changed since, thank goodness. Light sport aviation has been created and I almost bought a Rans Coyote II just 2 years ago. With no hangar space available I walked away. Whenever I see an Ercoupe I try to get a ride.
So happy I found this video, my Father was the CFO at Alon in McPherson I have fond memories of being 12 years old and washing the plane. I have 8mm home movies - now digital - of the day they released the 4 seater plus some black and white photos of the 4 seater. That 4 seater was one of the most beautiful airplanes ever made....
Thanks Mr. Abbott for the wonderful video. I learned to fly and soloed in a Mooney Cadet in 1975 and didn't know until watching your fine video that its production was tied to Ercoup. I loved the Cadet. The best part was that I was paying $15/hour wet!
Owned and flew N99391 twenty years ago. 350+ hours in coupes! Gave Paul Prentice a ride in my coupe one beautiful winter day in Bowie TX and also had the opportunity to meet Mr. Fred Weick back in the 80's at a FLA Ercoupe fly in. Blue skies!
The Ercoupe was the first plane I flew in (as a passenger) when I was 14 years old. It was owned by a friend of my dad, in Havana, an experience that I will always remember, my father as an aviation fanatic, was in love with this little plane. Thank you for putting together this historic documentary.
Great documentary, Mr. Abbott. As a pilot with more than 17,000 hours I've never had the opportunity to fly or ride in an Ercoupe. But in 1948 my then 28 year old dad was involved in a publicity stunt to encourage flying lessons and promote aviation. He was a friend of the operator of Knight's Airport in Vallejo, California. His friend advanced the idea of my dad soloing with a bare minimum of training. The aircraft was an Ercoupe. So, after an hour and fifteen minutes of instruction, he was sent off on his own to solo. The flight apparently went off without a hitch. There was an article in the local newspaper and photo talking about the "record" that had been set for the shortest period of training before soloing and how easy it was to learn to fly. I'm not sure if he ever flew again but recently I found his medical certificate and student pilot certificate. After I'd been flying for years he confided in me that he only had :45 minutes or so of instruction. His instructor said that sounded too low so they boosted it up to the hour and fifteen time. Truly a testament to the Ercoupe's abilities.
Well done video. A number of years ago, I put down a deposit on my first airplane purchase...a ‘46 Ercoupe 415C. About 2 weeks before I was to pick it up in Ohio and fly it back to Chicago, my wife was diagnosed with cancer. Obviously the need for all available funds for treatment of her illness necessitated asking for my deposit back, thus cancelling the sale. My wife made a full recovery, and Ill always remember the flight I took in that Ercoupe, which , at the time, convinced me to buy it. As a 2-service veteran (Both Marine Corps AND Navy), Ive been around many interesting aircraft, and as a pilot I have logged time in a dozen or so different planes, but none captured my personal flying interest quite like the Ercoupe, and I still have a Polaroid photo on my desk of the one I almost owned.
My brother John Rogers was a great fan of the ercoup. I can remember flying with him in the late 50's in his 1950 ercoupe. He later sold it but when he found it crashed in an Alaska airfield he recused and rebuilt it. He made many a modifications to his plane. All were approved by the FAA. One paticular one was adding extra fuel tanks in the wings to give extend range when he lived in Alaska. He want more range because of longer distances that Alaska challenge all aircraft . His wife, a retired FAA inspector Betty still has the plane.
It's possible that you have accidentally misspelled it but I've always pronounced it that way. I don't know of a Bear Cubs born to fly but an aircraft equipped with a steering wheel and no Rudder pedals is to me; an Air Coupe. I did however, mispronounce Bombardier for a long while.
Excellent video and greetings from an Alon care taker. I remember the fly-ins in Talequah and at Bowling Green when I was a kid. I and had the privilege of meeting Fred and Dorthy, and remember a time when almost every airport I flew into had at least one Ercoupe/Aircoupe on the field.
I completely rebuilt one myself years ago. Its done very little time since then. Has 100hp and fuel injection too. Amazing little plane. Thanks to all who made this very informative documentary.
If I had, had the money in 1959 I would have been an Aircoupe owner. I loved the aircraft, but couldn't raise enough money to swing the deal. I still love them. Thanks for this video.
I was present, as a spectator, at the national Ercoupe/Aircoupe fly-in in Newton Kansas in the very early 1990s. I grew up in Wichita, but had never seen an Ercoupe/Aircoupe until that fly-in. What a machine! Reminded me of my 1963 Corvette that I had sold a few years prior to finance dental school. The Ercoupe/Aircoupe owners were very happy to share their knowledge and flight experiences. It was a great weekend in Newton! Thank you for this enlightening video history.
My first aircraft was a 1946 Ercoupe. I loved it. Sunny Sunday, 90 mph, canopy open and elbow on the frame. Remember one time landing at Battle Creek. Looked over to see two F-15s and two A-10s holding short waiting for me to putt putt in for landing. Bet they used more fuel waiting than I did the whole time I owned it. I went on to an L-17 after that. High performance, retractable, variable pitch...what a difference. Weick was a genius with the ‘coupe design!!
I knew a physician in Parker, Arizona, 30 years ago, who had his 1946 all-metal Ercoupe hangered at the airport, about 2 miles from where I worked. He showed it to me, one Saturday, as I remember. It was a real beauty.
I grew up hearing my father talk of the safest most forgiving aircraft ever built... the safest he ever flew... the Ercoupe. Thank you for producing this fine movie about an amazing airplane.
My dad never told me that his introductory flight and first 5 lessons in April 1948 were in an Ercoupe. I just bought one last week, and wish my dad a former ATP pilot with over 15000 hours could be here to see it. Unfortunately he passed away in 2010. I feel like buying this plane and teaching my son how to fly is a family tradition. God bless!
@@leelafarlett4401 I bought one now over a year and a half ago. We are getting close to graduating her from Hangar Queen to Flying Girl. My son has helped me a lot and is looking forward to learning to fly.
With all due respect, if your father never told you his introductory flights were in an Ercoupe, then how did you find this information out? Genuine question. Thanks.
So well done. My first airplane ride was in an Ercoupe that my cousin had just recovered the wings. Later in life I was able to get my Aand P ticket, my private and commercial licensealong with, flight instructor ticket. . I logged about 1100 hours teaching and 1500 total hours before retiring from that adventure. Never got another ride in an Ercoupe!
Dad flew me around in one of these when I was a kid. Good times. I remember him explaining the unique control system. This brings back good memories...
What a great documentary! My first airplane ride was in a 1947 Ercoupe (Dallas, 1977). In the eighties, I met Alverna Williams at an airshow in Fort Worth.
@@dryan8377 Sorry for the late reply, I just saw your comment. I flew with a friend in a 152 and that was the most terrified that I have ever been in a plane. Meadow Lake airport, at 6877 feet doesn't lend itself well to under powered aircraft, and we weren't getting much in the way of lift. We were however, quickly running out of runway...
I don't fly airplanes, but I've always been interested in the subject. This video has to be one of the most fascinating videos, on a particular airplane, that I have ever had the privilege to watch. Thank you for making it.
I bought my first aircraft in 1974 ... a 1946 Ercoupe 415C with rudder pedals, 85hp continental and extended baggage compartment for $3900 ... I loved that plane and would buy another today if the chance ever came up.
I have always loved the look of the Ercoupe. It reminds me of a WW 2 bomber. When I was a student pilot I found an Ercoupe at a private runway. I was amazed and stunned at how exactly beautiful that plane was. I would love to have one and fly it as often as possible. Thank you this special
Excellent work, Don. My first airplane was N99495, a 415 C/D. Loved it, and learned firsthand how you could, with effort, steer yourself into something that resembled a groundloop in a strong crosswind.
Got my private license at 21 (soloed at 16) in a Cessna 150... almost 60 years ago... I had seen Ercoupes and generally had the attitude that is was a "cheater aircraft" for disabled individuals. I finally got to ride in one sometime in my 50's. I always had an appreciation for it for the reason I thought it was created... great idea for some physically disabled but discounted it as not being a "real" airplane. Over the years I've flown Cessnas, Pipers, and Areo Cammanders I never considered owning or flying an Ercoupe. After seeing this presentation, I can see what a part of history and an amazing aircraft I have missed because of my stupid prejudice for something I knew nothing about nor had the impetus to learn. It's too late for me now as I can't fly any longer but I certainly appreciate everyone that has kept the Ercoupes flying and maintaining a very important part of aircraft development alive for all to know and better understand as well as enjoy. Thank you all...
Just an FYI, back in the mid 1980's I worked for Forney's as their chief forklift driver (located on Laporte Ave. in Fort Collins, Colorado). There were many old buildings at the time, some of which were filled with various products Forney's made but eventually quit selling. In one of the warehouses tucked way back in a corner were pallets of Ercoupe propellers and steering wheels, along with other parts. It might be worth investigating whether those parts are still there.
My very first ride in an airplane was in a 1948 Ercoupe. I was about 10 years old, and the pilot kindly allowed me to steer it across the wide apron to the taxiway. Having grown up around aviation, I knew about the basic controls of an airplane, and the pilot explained to me the virtues of the pedal-free Ercoupe. I'm vision-handicapped and can't fly myself, but I'll always have a soft spot for the wonderful little twin-rudder ship that imbued me with a lifelong love of flying.
I'm really glad I watched this video, it should be a 2 hour History Channel special. I learned a lot, and have a much greater appreciation of this aircraft. Now I wonder how many people will walk by one at a Airshow,and never know what a contribution it made to some of the warbirds.
VERY WELL DONE! EXCELLENT HISTORICAL COMPILATION OF WHICH I LEARNED A TON OF INFORMATION. THE FAA OR EAA HAS A COMPETITION GOING ON RIGHT NOW FOR A DESIGN OF AN AIRCRAFT THAT "ANYONE" CAN OPERATE. WELL, THAT HAS ALREADY BEEN ACCOMPLISHED BY ERCOUPE! I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED THIS VIDEO AND THANK YOU FOR POSTING IT!
I really enjoyed the video. My dad got his private pilot's license in a Cessna 172 when I was about 12 years old. Some time later when I was about 14 he told me he was going to buy an "Aircoop." He located one in another state and told the seller if he would fly it to Houston he would buy it at an agreed price. I asked him if he was concerned about buying an airplane he had not seen or flown before if he was concerned about it's safety. He said "son if he is willing to fly it here it must be safe." He enjoyed it for a few years. He let me fly it once it was in the air. He kept pointing at the altimeter. I guess I was flying too high.
Been flying for nearly 54 years and have seen a lot of Ercoups/Aircoups but never had the opportunity to fly one. This story/documentary has given me a much better understanding of the "little airplane that could!" Thank you for putting this together, I very much enjoyed it!
Such a perfect design! Ercoupe's two axes controls is probably the most underrated aircraft innovation of that time. The only thing i would change there is adding a differential brakes for crosswind landings.
Great Video! I remember my first flight in a Ercoupe out of Hooks airport back in the eighties.. Wow what a great airplane. Thanks for the wonderful video.
25 years ago I was at an airport and an older gentleman wearing an Ercoupe ballcap came up to me to admire my RV-4 that I’d built. After answering his questions, I asked do you own an Ercoupe? When he answered yes, I asked if he was interested in swapping rides. We did. I’d always admired that “little B25” looking airplane. The ride he gave me did not disappoint. What a wonderful design!
Great video. When the footage gets to the Alon, one that was pictured there was N5475E, and that's the one that I got my PPL in during 1968-69. Great little airplanes.
As owner of the cockpit section of 1946 Ercoupe N3188H I have found this fascinating. I certainly learnt alot. 88H was written off when a pilot inexperienced on type fell foul of the limited flare and hit hard and short. Many thanks and Hi to all 'Coupe' owners and enthusiasts.
Excellent job! When I was learning to fly at the Bayport Aerodrome on Ling Island, as grass strip, there were probably a half dozen Ercoupes on the field, all of them were parked in a row on one side. It was kind of cool to see them all there, some never flew, others were meticulously maintained some flew once a month. Eventually they all disappeared and now there are none left.
Thank you for all the work on this great documentary . I think people should always choose safety and practicality over looking cool, after all it is your life.
I got my PPL at a small airport in New Holland PA in 1958. One of the 5 planes the owner had in the hanger was a 1946 415c Ercoupe, it was one of 3 planes we would fly until we soloed. This story brought back lots of fond memories especially taking my dates up for a ride at night. I remember when he put it up for sale for $1500 I wished I could have bought it but, that was beyond my reach.
I had a Ercoupe in the nineties, along with a Cessna 172, and a 175. The Ercoupe was the most fun, and cheaper on gas, it was also easiest to fly. Wish I could find it. Can't remember the N number expect that it had a H, a 0, a 7, and I think a 4. It left from Arkansas, and went to Texas painted white with a red stripe. I got to talk to Mr. Weick at a Ercoupe fly-in, just south of Russleville, Arkansas. Some called it "The Chicken Ranch Fly-in, because it was at a huge chicken ranch, complete with a Saturday night ho-down and all the fried eggs you could eat for breakfast. He was a very nice and interesting man to talk to, with a remarkable memory.
Came home from Vietnam a paraplegic and needed something to bring me back to life. A friend offered me a ride in his Cessna 150. After the flight I saw this cute little airplane for sale and found out it didn't have any rudder pedals. I bought the Ercoupe had to modify the brakes. My Ercoupe N87101 was the very first Ercoupe to have disc brakes with a FAA STC. I flew that little plane during some of the best times of my life. After 15 years I failed my FAA physical due to high blood pressure and lost my medical card. My wife and I also had two kids to raise. That little plane is a big reason I didn't end up a drunk, or on drugs or dead.
You can indeed fly without medical with Light Sports these days and some Ercoupe are certified as light sports, all you need is drivers license.
In 1968 My father bought a 1947 Ercoup while he was serving on a B-52 crew at Blytheville AFB in Arkansas. When we drove out to see it for the first time it was sitting in weeds 6 ft. tall and needed a lot of work. He paid $900 for it and boy were we excited to own an airplane. In 1969, my brother and I squirmed into the seat next to our father and flew it to N.C. when our dad left the Air Force. And as time went by we worked to perfect this aircraft into a better than new example. In 1974 my dad and I flew her from NC to Oshkosh, Wisconsin where we won Best Ercoup. My dad's name was Mitch Cooke and he flew this plane out of Twin Lakes airport in Mocksville, NC. We had a lot of fun with this project, and now looking back I think these were the best times spent with my dad. He served our country and he had a great time flying. And I had fun with the easy to fly Ercoup. What a great airplane. I hope N-3265H is still out there somewhere. My dad is passed away and I'm almost 60, but those memories will never fade.
I ran the N number and it says your dad sold it in 1975 and it went to Canada. Without knowing it's Canadian registration, I cannot determine it's history since.
A friend from Iowa gave me my first Ercoupe ride, in a 'G' model around 2008. I earned my sport pilot license, in a 'C' model (N3174H) in 2011. By the way, I'm disabled - from polio - and can't walk. But thanks to Fred Weick, and the Ercoupe, I can fly.
So proud of you Michael!!!! What a wonderful accomplishment!!!!!!!!
Congratulations my friend!!!! Flying sets you free & I’m sure that’s what it’s done for you!!! you make me smile today!! also my heart 💙 & wings go out to you Michael!!!!!
@Neil Carpenter I remember an Oscar Brand album of aviation-themed songs from back in my childhood. In one song, "Light Planes On Parade", the Ercoupe (by then renamed the Aircoupe) is mentioned:
*"The Aircoupe's just a flying car, except it's got no doors;*
*It's made with built-in bravery they never sell in stores.*
*It doesn't have any pedals, so it drives your feet insane;*
*That's the reason why, if you want to fly, you can always find a plane!"*
ua-cam.com/video/kqvMR4Q4kLk/v-deo.html
Neil Carpent
Congratulations! Truly a remarkable example of perseverance. 🛫❤
Hi Don
My Uncle,
Flight Lieutenant
Harold Newton DFC
Flew an Ercoupe
Across the Tasman Sea
from Australia to New
Zealand after WW2.
I believe it may have been the first single engine
crossing.
Harold by the way flew
The DeHavilland Mosquito after transitioning from the Bristol Beufighter.
An interesting story of Harold flying the plane from Europe across
the top of Africa and The
East, down to Australia.
Harold passed away some years ago but
His family had tracked down and bought the plane and restored it.
When I was a kid my father began to rebuilt an Ercoupe in our home parking, this video brought great memories. Congrats
Yes! I do remember our father’s Ercoupe project!
Glad I found this! I used to ride my skateboard to South Columbus Airfield and watch all the time. One day an older gentleman was trying to pull his plane out of the hanger but couldn't get it past the door guides. He yelled over to me, Hey Kid! Can you come give me a hand? I was about 15 or so and gleefully said yes. He showed me where to grab on the prop and we pulled it out easily. He asked if I would like to go for a ride and I yelled yes! Soon thereafter we were doing circuits over my neighborhood. He let me fly it some too! This was around 1979 or so. South Columbus airport was very active for a while, and I pretty much watched planes in the pattern over my house all day. Thanks for this memory and preservation of a legendary aircraft.!
My dad flew me and my mom from west Texas to San Francisco when I was about 2 (I'm 72 now and he's 96). He told me I spent a lot of the time on the floorboard under my mom's feet during the trip. Another thing I remember is him telling me how he had to circle and circle to get over the mountains. He flew F6F's in the Pacific and owned at least 3 other planes the I can remember (Cub, Tripacer, 182). Thanks for your story.
Was he on a carrier and which one?
@@jockellis Hormet VF11
arnoguy My Father was duty officer for VF-81 on the Wasp’s first cruise.
After 43 years in aviation, this is one of the best documentaries I've seen on a light aircraft model. Thank you Don and your team, for putting this all together and making it available for us all to enjoy, I learned a lot about, and have a much greater respect for, an aircraft that I always felt was pretty darn cool. 😊👍🏼🙏🏻
Thank you, AfricanFlightStar. You said it all much better than I could.
yes, very well done. THANKS
super
Well said and I totally agree!
I have watched this video at least five times and almost feel like I can tell the story to others verbatim! Thanks so much Don for making it!
My first flight, at the age of 14, was in an Ercoupe. In my memoirs, I describe the takeoff thusly:
The transition was magical. One instant we were a high-speed tricycle, rumbling and jouncing across the pasture. The next we were a graceful aluminum bird floating through the air, wings dipping slightly back and forth, nose climbing above the horizon, the rush of air around the canopy accompanied by the constant drumming of the engine. I looked out the right side and watched as the ground sank away under the wing, the fence and power lines at the end of the pasture passing beneath us. I was flying! And I was hooked for life.
I couldn't stop watching. Very well made and a fascinating story!
I loved my Ercoupe. I believe it would be worth mentioning that the fuel system was operated by pumping fuel from the wings to the center gravity flow center tank. If you lost a fuel pump, you still had a full center tank. Thanks for a wonderful video.
I have several hours in an Ercoupe. A truly unique flying experience. Flying with the windows down is a thrill.
This video brought back some wonderful memories. My father owned a 1946 Ercoupe and taught me how to fly at 8 years old. His Ercoupe is still around today. I researched the tail number and found its location. Thank you for this wonderful video.
Yes, I know where my '46 is today, over in Clearwater Fl & I go over once and a while and pet it...
Great video. I learned to fly in a Champ and retired as a 747 Capt. Any Ercoupe is a welcome site on my airport. They're an important part of General Aviation history.
Indeed! Years ago my brothers and I were at the EL Toro MCAS, I believe...don't think it was at March AFB, for the annual air show. Jets and warbirds spanned the tarmac.
We found a beautiful polished aluminum Ercoupe, a sight of joy! Just had to go for a close long look. My father flew with all of us in N3134H, a 1946 415-C, when we were wee lads.
Seeing a pristine Ercoupe that day was beautiful. The owner was surprised at our excitement over his bird.
My father had one. I flew in it many times. When I was 10 he would let me fly it all the time. In a good headwind you could go backwards over the ground. Dad used to joke the Ercoup didn’t have an airspeed indicator it only had a clock.
Or with really high headwinds, use a calendar!
Great story! I first flew this plane In 1948 when I was 8 years old. My first flight. I was forever hooked on aviation and now after 25,000+ hours starting with the Navy and then United airlines have this airplane to thank. JC
Wow!!! I'm (almost) speechless. Tremendous research about a lesser known craft that still flies in safety today. Way ahead of its time, beautiful in a vintage 1950's sort of way, a classic craft treated poorly by the GA community at large. It really is a designed safety craft that MANY of its ideas should have been incorporated into newer craft over time. Thank you so much for a well covered history of the 'lil Ercoupe- past due recognition for an airplane ahead of its time!
Thank you so much Mr. Abbott...you are a gentleman
I enjoyed this. Thank you! I was born in 1940 and grew up near a private airport, Pearson airport, in my hoimetown of Vancouver, Washington. Seeing the special look of the Ercoupe flying over is one of my tender childhood memories. Thank you again!
Pearson has some historical significance went there for a fly-in once.
My first "ride" was in a Ercoupe around 1964, hung out at the local airport and was able to get rides from time to time. I still remember that first ride and from then on I was hooked at 12yoa. and have had a lifelong passion for flying. Great story on the Ercoupe.
My 1st was somewhere around 1950. I use to go up with my dad, and anyone else at the local airport. i was 10.
Thank you, Don, and everyone associated with the Ercoupe. I hope I get to fly one day soon.
Thanks for making this documentary of the Ercoupe. It brings back fond memories of flying both examples (with and without rudder pedals) as a kid. We had both at the FBO where I worked as a line boy and my boss would let me fly them pretty much whenever since they were a “blight on the industry “ and no one else wanted to. I thought they were a blast to fly and I enjoyed every minute! Thanks again for the memories of a really beautiful little plane.
That was an epic documentary on this plane. Im 54 from South Africa & can't I have ever seen one live. I love its lines :) "SAXSY"
BRAVO!!! Excellent video! As an aircraft maintenance engineer in Canada, I had the pleasure to annually inspect only one of these treasures, but gained an appreciation for the simplicity and ruggedness of the design. I'm retired now, but remember the 'coupe fondly.
My dad had an ercoupe . At the age of 3 I remeber him blowing up balloons amd throwing them outside via the open canopy. He has a tight grip on the back of my pants as was standing on the seat. With no rudder pedals i could fly around and pop all the balloons! Once we had one foul the oil cooler and had to land. It was a simple fix but my mom put a stop fo it... Ill never firget my dads face as i fold her all about it. I remember his ercoupe had its wings changed to metal from fabric and he would navigate with something called a superhomer. Thanks so much for this great video. Blue skies!
I'm not a pilot but am an avid airplane enthusiast. To me, the Ercoupe has the most pleasing to the eye lines of any light aircraft. I've built two models of it. Excellent video!
Were they flying models? I'm returning to building models after a 30 year layoff. Stick and tissue, rubber powered and now I'm going to look for some plans.
Yes, old Comet rubber powered stick and tissue models. I still have the last one. Great hobby. Enjoy!
I did very much enjoy this video. I have been a type 1 diabetic since 1966 and fell in love with the Ercoupe at the Santa Paula, CA airport. They had one for sale and I was making arrangements to purchase it in 1985. The sales rep said you should call the FAA and see if you can get a license. I did and they just laughed at me. Things have changed since, thank goodness. Light sport aviation has been created and I almost bought a Rans Coyote II just 2 years ago. With no hangar space available I walked away. Whenever I see an Ercoupe I try to get a ride.
I was a Forney owner and club president
Loved reserecting & flying this splendid aircraft...
So happy I found this video, my Father was the CFO at Alon in McPherson I have fond memories of being 12 years old and washing the plane. I have 8mm home movies - now digital - of the day they released the 4 seater plus some black and white photos of the 4 seater. That 4 seater was one of the most beautiful airplanes ever made....
Well done! Thanks for preserving some very important aviation history.
Excellent documentary! The level of research, script and production proves it was a labor of love. Thank you for creating it and sharing on UA-cam.
Thanks Mr. Abbott for the wonderful video. I learned to fly and soloed in a Mooney Cadet in 1975 and didn't know until watching your fine video that its production was tied to Ercoup. I loved the Cadet. The best part was that I was paying $15/hour wet!
Owned and flew N99391 twenty years ago. 350+ hours in coupes! Gave Paul Prentice a ride in my coupe one beautiful winter day in Bowie TX and also had the opportunity to meet Mr. Fred Weick back in the 80's at a FLA Ercoupe fly in. Blue skies!
The Ercoupe was the first plane I flew in (as a passenger) when I was 14 years old. It was owned by a friend of my dad, in Havana, an experience that I will always remember, my father as an aviation fanatic, was in love with this little plane. Thank you for putting together this historic documentary.
BRAVO ZULU! 👏 Thank you for your wonderful account of the BEST airplane I've never owned. One of these days; one of these days...
Great documentary, Mr. Abbott. As a pilot with more than 17,000 hours I've never had the opportunity to fly or ride in an Ercoupe. But in 1948 my then 28 year old dad was involved in a publicity stunt to encourage flying lessons and promote aviation. He was a friend of the operator of Knight's Airport in Vallejo, California. His friend advanced the idea of my dad soloing with a bare minimum of training. The aircraft was an Ercoupe. So, after an hour and fifteen minutes of instruction, he was sent off on his own to solo. The flight apparently went off without a hitch. There was an article in the local newspaper and photo talking about the "record" that had been set for the shortest period of training before soloing and how easy it was to learn to fly. I'm not sure if he ever flew again but recently I found his medical certificate and student pilot certificate. After I'd been flying for years he confided in me that he only had :45 minutes or so of instruction. His instructor said that sounded too low so they boosted it up to the hour and fifteen time. Truly a testament to the Ercoupe's abilities.
Well done video. A number of years ago, I put down a deposit on my first airplane purchase...a ‘46 Ercoupe 415C. About 2 weeks before I was to pick it up in Ohio and fly it back to Chicago, my wife was diagnosed with cancer. Obviously the need for all available funds for treatment of her illness necessitated asking for my deposit back, thus cancelling the sale. My wife made a full recovery, and Ill always remember the flight I took in that Ercoupe, which , at the time, convinced me to buy it. As a 2-service veteran (Both Marine Corps AND Navy), Ive been around many interesting aircraft, and as a pilot I have logged time in a dozen or so different planes, but none captured my personal flying interest quite like the Ercoupe, and I still have a Polaroid photo on my desk of the one I almost owned.
My brother John Rogers was a great fan of the ercoup. I can remember flying with him in the late 50's in his 1950 ercoupe. He later sold it but when he found it crashed in an Alaska airfield he recused
and rebuilt it. He made many a modifications to his plane. All were approved by the FAA. One paticular one was adding extra fuel tanks in the wings to give extend range when he lived in Alaska. He want more range because of longer distances that Alaska challenge all aircraft . His wife, a retired FAA inspector Betty still has the plane.
Would that be John Rogers ??? He used to do the annual on my ercoupe. Hell of a good guy.
I’m ferry flying an aircoupe across Canada right now and I absolutely love it! What a great airplane!
It's possible that you have accidentally misspelled it but I've always pronounced it that way. I don't know of a Bear Cubs born to fly but an aircraft equipped with a steering wheel and no Rudder pedals is to me; an Air Coupe. I did however, mispronounce Bombardier for a long while.
My step-father had a 1946 ercoupe , I first rode in it in 1968 , great stuff .
It was crashed years after it left our family . GOOD OLD CF- VFF !
Excellent video and greetings from an Alon care taker. I remember the fly-ins in Talequah and at Bowling Green when I was a kid. I and had the privilege of meeting Fred and Dorthy, and remember a time when almost every airport I flew into had at least one Ercoupe/Aircoupe on the field.
I completely rebuilt one myself years ago. Its done very little time since then. Has 100hp and fuel injection too. Amazing little plane. Thanks to all who made this very informative documentary.
If I had, had the money in 1959 I would have been an Aircoupe owner. I loved the aircraft, but couldn't raise enough money to swing the deal. I still love them. Thanks for this video.
I was present, as a spectator, at the national Ercoupe/Aircoupe fly-in in Newton Kansas in the very early 1990s. I grew up in Wichita, but had never seen an Ercoupe/Aircoupe until that fly-in. What a machine! Reminded me of my 1963 Corvette that I had sold a few years prior to finance dental school. The Ercoupe/Aircoupe owners were very happy to share their knowledge and flight experiences. It was a great weekend in Newton! Thank you for this enlightening video history.
My first aircraft was a 1946 Ercoupe. I loved it. Sunny Sunday, 90 mph, canopy open and elbow on the frame. Remember one time landing at Battle Creek. Looked over to see two F-15s and two A-10s holding short waiting for me to putt putt in for landing. Bet they used more fuel waiting than I did the whole time I owned it. I went on to an L-17 after that. High performance, retractable, variable pitch...what a difference. Weick was a genius with the ‘coupe design!!
Simplicity really is precious, isn't it?
I knew a physician in Parker, Arizona, 30 years ago, who had his 1946 all-metal Ercoupe hangered at the airport, about 2 miles from where I worked.
He showed it to me, one Saturday, as I remember.
It was a real beauty.
I enjoyed this video very much. This was an excellent history of a remarkably unique airplane.
Great documentary about a truly unique airplane. Enjoyed every minute of it.
I grew up hearing my father talk of the safest most forgiving aircraft ever built... the safest he ever flew... the Ercoupe. Thank you for producing this fine movie about an amazing airplane.
DracoX for sure. Love watching you guys. Keep it up!
My dad never told me that his introductory flight and first 5 lessons in April 1948 were in an Ercoupe. I just bought one last week, and wish my dad a former ATP pilot with over 15000 hours could be here to see it. Unfortunately he passed away in 2010. I feel like buying this plane and teaching my son how to fly is a family tradition. God bless!
Are you going to buy one and teach your son how to fly, or have you?
@@leelafarlett4401 I bought one now over a year and a half ago. We are getting close to graduating her from Hangar Queen to Flying Girl. My son has helped me a lot and is looking forward to learning to fly.
With all due respect, if your father never told you his introductory flights were in an Ercoupe, then how did you find this information out? Genuine question. Thanks.
So well done. My first airplane ride was in an Ercoupe that my cousin had just recovered the wings. Later in life I was able to get my Aand P ticket, my private and commercial licensealong with, flight instructor ticket. . I logged about 1100 hours teaching and 1500 total hours before retiring from that adventure. Never got another ride in an Ercoupe!
Fantastic Documentary! Thanks for posting it!
What a GREAT video of this AMAZING little plane. This is one video I'll NEVER tire of. Thanks for loading this.
Dad flew me around in one of these when I was a kid.
Good times.
I remember him explaining the unique control system.
This brings back good memories...
I’ve always loved the design of the Ercoupe. In fact as a young boy, my first model plane build in 1952 was an Ercoupe!
What a great documentary! My first airplane ride was in a 1947 Ercoupe (Dallas, 1977). In the eighties, I met Alverna Williams at an airshow in Fort Worth.
I bought one in 1966 for $2200, great airplane and N67M is still flying. Mine was a 1946 'Erco' 415C Aircoupe w/ metal wings and 75HP.
As late as the early '80s I could have bought one for $5000. But being 6'5", I would have had to fly with the canopy open. :)
@@MrWaalkman omg so right! You can't get two adults into a C150 for years now! Merica got fat! Well, tall too, so there's that.
@@MrWaalkman >>> So there IS an advantage to being *5'5"...😝*
@@Allan_aka_RocKITEman From up here, yeah. :) I also can't fit in a Triumph Spitfire either, which is a car that I've always wanted to own.
@@dryan8377 Sorry for the late reply, I just saw your comment.
I flew with a friend in a 152 and that was the most terrified that I have ever been in a plane. Meadow Lake airport, at 6877 feet doesn't lend itself well to under powered aircraft, and we weren't getting much in the way of lift. We were however, quickly running out of runway...
I don't fly airplanes, but I've always been interested in the subject. This video has to be one of the most fascinating videos, on a particular airplane, that I have ever had the privilege to watch. Thank you for making it.
I bought my first aircraft in 1974 ... a 1946 Ercoupe 415C with rudder pedals, 85hp continental and extended baggage compartment for $3900 ... I loved that plane and would buy another today if the chance ever came up.
Not a pilot but was fascinated to learn about this unique aircraft. Thanks.
You are a first class gentleman thank you for making that I have never watched something that was so informative and well put together thank you
It is such a great video and so much work to collect and present all the information included in this video!
Great video . Thanks for reinvigorating my desire for an affordable plane !
I have always loved the look of the Ercoupe. It reminds me of a WW 2 bomber. When I was a student pilot I found an Ercoupe at a private runway. I was amazed and stunned at how exactly beautiful that plane was. I would love to have one and fly it as often as possible. Thank you this special
I hope you find one. It is about as close to being a bird as humans get. Best to you. Don
Great Video, I am buying an Ercoupe for my first plane! I am super excited.
Excellent work, Don. My first airplane was N99495, a 415 C/D. Loved it, and learned firsthand how you could, with effort, steer yourself into something that resembled a groundloop in a strong crosswind.
Excellent video. Thank you for your efforts - very worthy work, indeed.
Got my private license at 21 (soloed at 16) in a Cessna 150... almost 60 years ago... I had seen Ercoupes and generally had the attitude that is was a "cheater aircraft" for disabled individuals. I finally got to ride in one sometime in my 50's. I always had an appreciation for it for the reason I thought it was created... great idea for some physically disabled but discounted it as not being a "real" airplane. Over the years I've flown Cessnas, Pipers, and Areo Cammanders I never considered owning or flying an Ercoupe. After seeing this presentation, I can see what a part of history and an amazing aircraft I have missed because of my stupid prejudice for something I knew nothing about nor had the impetus to learn. It's too late for me now as I can't fly any longer but I certainly appreciate everyone that has kept the Ercoupes flying and maintaining a very important part of aircraft development alive for all to know and better understand as well as enjoy. Thank you all...
Just an FYI, back in the mid 1980's I worked for Forney's as their chief forklift driver (located on Laporte Ave. in Fort Collins, Colorado). There were many old buildings at the time, some of which were filled with various products Forney's made but eventually quit selling. In one of the warehouses tucked way back in a corner were pallets of Ercoupe propellers and steering wheels, along with other parts. It might be worth investigating whether those parts are still there.
My very first ride in an airplane was in a 1948 Ercoupe. I was about 10 years old, and the pilot kindly allowed me to steer it across the wide apron to the taxiway. Having grown up around aviation, I knew about the basic controls of an airplane, and the pilot explained to me the virtues of the pedal-free Ercoupe. I'm vision-handicapped and can't fly myself, but I'll always have a soft spot for the wonderful little twin-rudder ship that imbued me with a lifelong love of flying.
I'm really glad I watched this video, it should be a 2 hour History Channel special. I learned a lot, and have a much greater appreciation of this aircraft. Now I wonder how many people will walk by one at a Airshow,and never know what a contribution it made to some of the warbirds.
VERY WELL DONE! EXCELLENT HISTORICAL COMPILATION OF WHICH I LEARNED A TON OF INFORMATION. THE FAA OR EAA HAS A COMPETITION GOING ON RIGHT NOW FOR A DESIGN OF AN AIRCRAFT THAT "ANYONE" CAN OPERATE. WELL, THAT HAS ALREADY BEEN ACCOMPLISHED BY ERCOUPE!
I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED THIS VIDEO AND THANK YOU FOR POSTING IT!
That was the best Aviation video I have ever watched
I really enjoyed the video. My dad got his private pilot's license in a Cessna 172 when I was about 12 years old. Some time later when I was about 14 he told me he was going to buy an "Aircoop." He located one in another state and told the seller if he would fly it to Houston he would buy it at an agreed price. I asked him if he was concerned about buying an airplane he had not seen or flown before if he was concerned about it's safety. He said "son if he is willing to fly it here it must be safe." He enjoyed it for a few years. He let me fly it once it was in the air. He kept pointing at the altimeter. I guess I was flying too high.
Been flying for nearly 54 years and have seen a lot of Ercoups/Aircoups but never had the opportunity to fly one. This story/documentary has given me a much better understanding of the "little airplane that could!" Thank you for putting this together, I very much enjoyed it!
Enjoyed from start to finish, will do more reasearch on this engineer and the design
Such a perfect design! Ercoupe's two axes controls is probably the most underrated aircraft innovation of that time. The only thing i would change there is adding a differential brakes for crosswind landings.
An excellent biography of a aircraft that should be remembered in aviation history. Thank you for posting this to youtube.
Great Video! I remember my first flight in a Ercoupe out of Hooks airport back in the eighties.. Wow what a great airplane. Thanks for the wonderful video.
25 years ago I was at an airport and an older gentleman wearing an Ercoupe ballcap came up to me to admire my RV-4 that I’d built. After answering his questions, I asked do you own an Ercoupe? When he answered yes, I asked if he was interested in swapping rides. We did. I’d always admired that “little B25” looking airplane. The ride he gave me did not disappoint. What a wonderful design!
THANK YOU FOR THIS WONDERFUL VIDEO, I FIND THE ERCOUPE TO BE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL LITTLE AIRPLANE!!GOD BLESS!!
Ree
What a great documentary ! I used to fly one 25 years ago and always loved flying it ! Great little airplane !
Great video. When the footage gets to the Alon, one that was pictured there was N5475E, and that's the one that I got my PPL in during 1968-69. Great little airplanes.
When I was growing up, and my father ran the airport in Jacksonville NC, I loved that airplane. As a child, and even today as a 64 y.o. old fart.
As owner of the cockpit section of 1946 Ercoupe N3188H I have found this fascinating. I certainly learnt alot. 88H was written off when a pilot inexperienced on type fell foul of the limited flare and hit hard and short. Many thanks and Hi to all 'Coupe' owners and enthusiasts.
Excellent job! When I was learning to fly at the Bayport Aerodrome on Ling Island, as grass strip, there were probably a half dozen Ercoupes on the field, all of them were parked in a row on one side. It was kind of cool to see them all there, some never flew, others were meticulously maintained some flew once a month. Eventually they all disappeared and now there are none left.
GREAT GREAT VIDEO!! ENJOYED IT ALL!
Fantastic film... Congratulations from Santiago , Chile.
Thank you for all the work on this great documentary . I think people should always choose safety and practicality over looking cool, after all it is your life.
Fantastic video. Thank you very much. God Bless you.
My father had one and I got to fly it frequently. Flew great and I am a big fan. Thanks for the great video.
I got my PPL at a small airport in New Holland PA in 1958. One of the 5 planes the owner had in the hanger was a 1946 415c Ercoupe, it was one of 3 planes we would fly until we soloed. This story brought back lots of fond memories especially taking my dates up for a ride at night. I remember when he put it up for sale for $1500 I wished I could have bought it but, that was beyond my reach.
Well produced and edited video. Thanks for the great info.
Fabulous and fascinating! Thank-you.
I had a Ercoupe in the nineties, along with a Cessna 172, and a 175. The Ercoupe was the most fun, and cheaper on gas, it was also easiest to fly. Wish I could find it. Can't remember the N number expect that it had a H, a 0, a 7, and I think a 4. It left from Arkansas, and went to Texas painted white with a red stripe. I got to talk to Mr. Weick at a Ercoupe fly-in, just south of Russleville, Arkansas. Some called it "The Chicken Ranch Fly-in, because it was at a huge chicken ranch, complete with a Saturday night ho-down and all the fried eggs you could eat for breakfast. He was a very nice and interesting man to talk to, with a remarkable memory.
Outstanding video, thank you! 👍
Mr. Abbott, thank you so much for putting together this great video about the Ercoupe and it's history. This is an awesome documentary!
What a wonderful airplane, and what a wonderful documentary! Thank you for your passion and commitment.....