The tens of thousands of fans of the turbine-powered super STOL Draco can breathe a big sigh of relief. Mike Patey, who crashed the bright red taildragger on departure after the Stihl National Championship Air Races in Reno this fall, has announced that he is working on a major restoration of the airplane. Patey initially thought the airplane was a total loss.
Super STOL “Draco” to be Revived
Key Takeaways:
- Mike Patey's acclaimed turbine-powered super STOL aircraft, *Draco*, crashed after a crosswind takeoff attempt in Reno.
- Although initially considered a total loss, Patey has announced plans for a major restoration of the unique taildragger.
- *Draco* was a heavily modified PZL-104 Wilga, renowned for its extreme short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, powered by a 680-horsepower Pratt & Whitney PT6A engine.
- Patey intends to rebuild *Draco* with numerous enhancements, promising improvements in power, range, speed, payload, and overall STOL performance.
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