Originally published in 1999
By Leo Murphee Jr.
President, ECS
Did you see that strange contraption running up and down the taxiway and tarmac at our “50’s Hangar Party” held at the Texas Aviation Conference on April 8 in Austin? Is it a boat? Is it a plane? It is a combination of both.
A “Hovercraft” comes in many different shapes and functions in a variety of ways: from a 6-foot diameter circle platform with a lawn mower engine attached for riding on smooth parking lots, to a two-engine craft which can carry 4-6 people, or maybe a U.S. Navy marine craft to haul men and heavy equipment, such as armored vehicles and tanks. Hovercrafts fly on a cushion of air and and can travel on water as well as on land.
The Hovercraft at the hangar party rides approximately 9 inches above the ground with only the bottom edge of the skirts touching the ground. The function of the skirts is to trap the air underneath the craft to create lift. This craft is an integrated unit that will lift approximately 750 pounds, with estimated top speeds of 50-55 mph on land, and 30-35 mph on water. Moreover, this craft can be used for search and rescue operations, hunting and fishing, and other pleasure outings. I use my hovercraft mostly for promotional purposes, mainly to give people thrills at airshows, balloon festivals and other events with large crowds. I estimate I gave over JOO rides at the hangar party; Elvis sure enjoyed his ride!
Look for a free ride on my Hovercraft at the Airshow in Smyrna, Tenn., on Sept. 9-10.
Editor Note: Leo Murphee Jr., besides being so generous with his free rides in his Hovercraft, is also President of ECSElectrical & Construction Specialists, based in Greenwood, Miss. Thanks Leo for the free rides at our hangar party!