Project Notebook: Retirement Dream

Monday, March 21, 2016 at 06:51 PM ET

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The SkiGull quickly converts from landplane to seaplane to skiplane through a never-before-seen retractable landing-gear system. Courtesy Burt Rutan

Key Takeaways:

Legendary aircraft designer Burt Rutan developed SkiGull, his 47th aircraft, as a versatile retirement vehicle for global travel.
SkiGull features an innovative retractable landing gear system that allows it to convert rapidly for operation on land, water, or snow.
Initial flight tests in late 2015 confirmed excellent flying qualities, but Rutan is implementing modifications to address issues such as unacceptable stall characteristics and airspeed errors.

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When legendary airplane designer Burt Rutan announced his retirement in 2011, a collective gasp rang through the aviation industry.

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.