Volmer VJ-22 Sportsman   Now, you don’t see that plane taxiing around the airport every day.  So, what is it?  That was my question to the owner after it stopped in front of its hangar.  Well, it’s a 1950’s vintage, experimental, high wing monoplane, Volmer VJ-22 Amphibian flying boat nicknamed “Sportsman” with a 235hp Franklin engine, hydraulic brakes, and a two place, size by side, closed cabin.  Apparently, only about 100 have been built.  This particular airplane was built in 1994 hence the upgraded engine.  For more images of this beautiful plane, visit Volmer VJ-22 Sportsman | a 7 Image Story.

Just the Facts

• • Length: 24 ft
• Height: 8 ft
• Wingspan: 36.5 ft
• Empty weight: 1,000 lbs
• Useful load: 500 lbs
• Gross weight: 1,500 lbs
• Fuel consumption 5.0 gals per hour with a Continental C-85 engine
• Cruise: 85 mph
• Stall: 45 mph
• Climb: 600 ft/min
• Ceiling: 13,000 ft
• Wood hull aircraft mahogany plywood and spruce, fiber-glass covered
• Wings-Aeronca Chief or Champion, wood spar, ribs, fabric covered
• Landing gear-Main gear, swiveling tail wheel and water rudder manually retractable

Yeah, the glass display is an iPad which adorns a modern cockpit for a classy vintage plane. And, look at the wood floor; beautiful workmanship.   Hopefully, I’ll get another opportunity to capture more images of this gorgeous airplane.  Once again, the easy to carry, Nikon 1 V1 comes through, since it was in my vehicle as I was leaving the airport today.