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As we approach our national competition in Colorado, aeronautic events must wonder how the thin air in Colorado will effect their event.

Are helicopter teams in Colorado doing something differently than other teams having been in the air the whole season?

Will your copter even get off the ground or suffer from dramatic time losses?

Will thin air be an issue for helicopters in Colorado?

What will your team be doing to fight the thin air at NATS?

Kathi:

While I am not in Colorado, we are in NM, and also about a mile high. We are seeing times very competitive with those seen around the country, so I do not think there is much difference in performance. You should be prepared to make minor changes in rubber thickness, just in case. we have not run at sea level, so I cannot tell you what changes to expect, but our rubber widths and times are comparable to others around the country.

I know in Wright Stuff over the last few years there was little to no change even in rubber selection going down to lower elevation, which rather surprised me. I had expected significant changes.

So, yes, they will fly. I would plan on some testing, either in the hotel or at the venue.

Coach Chuck

For reference, the air pressure in Fort Collins is 80-85% of sea level.