josok wrote:
Hi Jos,
> If you search to eliminate all risk, you will end up with
> something that does nor fly anymore.
I search to minimise the risk. Not eliminate, but minimize. So I will
still fly, but without non closeable fuel sight leaking sources around
me, and with no other fuel paths (and potential leaks) than what is
really necessary to keep the engine running.
I understand this is a sensitive topic for you. By no means I want to
suggest that you should have build or act differently than you did. But
of course, an "event" like yours reminds us about the risks of fire. I
think it is no coincidence that we currently see discussions about
Halon, one way fuel valve's, etc. The positive thing is that we are now
looking how to minimize the risk. Personally, I never thought about
installing a one-way valve in the fuel return line, until reading about
your accident. Your accident may one day save my life.
> The Europa, as designed, is a
> safe plane. The rest is risk management.
When I started building my Europa, I went through a lot of builders
archives, to see how other people built their Europa, and to pick up
good ideas. Later I started reading the forum. I became quite shocked
when I read that some of the people who were an example for me are no
longer with us. I had been digging through all your build pictures too,
and then some time later you became involved in an accident as well. It
might be true that the Europa is a safe plane, but every accident is one
too much. The builders archives are good for inspiration, but the
accident archives are good for enhancing safety. Both are valuable
sources to improve your plane.
BTW, how are you doing? Are you recovering well?
--
Frans
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