Sitting on the Dock on the Bay

One of the most anticipated moments for the Murphy Moose has finally arrived. This past Tuesday, the factory demonstrator powered by the Russian M-14P radial engine and mounted on the new 3600 Series of floats from Murphy Aircraft, took to the water starting water trials.

Chief Pilot Robin Dyck eagerly anticipated the performance of the Moose while the SR3500 was delivered to the water. Once ready and everything checked and re-checked, Robin started the radial engine and taxied out. If anyone was wondering how the Moose would perform, they didn't wonder too long as the Moose quickly jumped onto the step of the floats with application of full power. Once on the step, speed was quickly gained and take-off occurred, all in about 10 seconds, solo.

All the water tests and floatation tests went very well and President Darryl Murphy was smiling all afternoon with the results. Testing with four adults aboard was also done with very favorable take-off times. Once some figures are in, they will be published here.

For some early pictures of the development of the floats and mounting kit, click here.