Aero Commander 520 from Michigan to California.

This is the ferry flight of my 1953 Aero Commander 520 from KPHN in Michigan to Stockton, CA. We do a low pass for the former owner and our friend Peter before we head west.

16hrs of flying in one day, crossing both the Rockies and the Sierras. Headwinds in excess of 30kts most of the way. Fuel stops in Grinell, IA, Ogalalla, NE, Spanish Fork, UT and Eureka, NV. She behaved flawlessly.

Sorry for poor quality, was shot on phone. Also forgot to film a lot, so it's a bit patchy. What an adventure!

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• Aero
• Commander
• 520
• Aerocommander
• AC52
• AC520
• AC
• Twin
• Rockwell
• Multi
• Engine
• Ferry

[stratobee]

@tboltjohn

She did actually have a reg ending in B, but it was changed in the mid 60's.

[tboltjohn]

If this machine could talk..did it start out as a business exec? Did it have a former registration ending in B for Bravo? Many 520, 560 and 680's in the 50's did. Beautiful interior and love the original yokes. Bless you all for posting this great old bird, and may the Lord watch over those gearboxes!

[stratobee]

@andrewbridget

Yeah, it looks like a freaky rate of climb. She climbs well, but not that well.

[andrewbridget]

Great video--great plane! At around the 6 minute mark just after one of take-offs, I was surprised at the apparent nose-high attitude of the aircraft--seemed to be climbing like a bat out of heck...then realised it was the camera angle. Thanks for sharing.