The FAA categorizes skis as plain or combination — plain being straight fixed skis and combination being a ski mounted around a wheel. Combination skis are either retractable or penetration skis. Penetration skis are fixed around the wheel, which sticks out below to allow for landings on pavement. Skis are generally made from composite and metal, but there are also wood skis.
Airplane Skis
Key Takeaways:
- Aircraft skis are categorized by the FAA as plain (straight fixed) or combination, with combination types being either retractable or penetration skis.
- Straight skis are simple, inexpensive, and light, but ground handling can be difficult, and they require time for installation/removal.
- Retractable skis offer full flexibility for landing on runways, snow, or ice but are expensive (around $20,000-$30,000) and add significant weight.
- Penetration skis provide a compromise, allowing for good ground handling on both snow and pavement without excessive weight or maintenance, at a moderate cost ($5,000-$10,000).
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