War Birds at Work: The Yakovlev Yak-50
 
Aircraft are beginning to register regularly for the 2011 Wheels and Wings Show taking place at the Vail Valley Jet Center on Saturday, September 10 and in Vail Village on Sunday, September 11. One of the more unique aircraft recently registered is a Yak.
 
The Yakovlev Yak-50 (Як-50) aerobatic aircraft is a single-seat, all-metal, low-wing monoplane with retractable main wheels and exposed tail wheel. The control surfaces are fabric covered to save weight.The aircraft is not equipped with flaps.
 
The supercharged engine may be the Vedeneyev M14P (standard production line version), M14PF or M14R, producing between 360 and 450 hp and drives the propeller via a reduction gearbox. The landing gear, brakes and engine starter are operated by compressed air.
 
The Yak-50 has exceptionally fine handling characteristics enhanced by a relatively high power-to-weight ratio. It has a tough and agile airframe (rated at +9 and -5 Gs). The Yak-50 was a two-time World Aerobatic Champion. It has been used as a military trainer by several countries.
 
With activities for kids and adults alike and over 300 cars aircraft and motorcycles on display, the 2011 Wheels and Wings Show is sure to please! Sponsors include the Vail Valley Jet Center, the Vail Daily, Town of Gypsum, Wells Fargo, the Vail Valley Medical Center, Maximum Comfort Pool & Spa, Plum TV, TV8, Vail Honeywagon, The Busted Knuckle Garage, KZYR The Zephyr, Rocky Mountain Custom Landscaping, Matco Tools, Slifer, Smith & Frampton,  Meadow Creek Tire, Vail Mountain Coffee & Tea Company, the Hotel Gastoff Gramshammer, The Tivoli Lodge, Simba Run Vail Condominiums, the Westin Riverfront, Big Steve's Towing, Vail Chamber & Business Association, KTC Consulting LLC, Nichols Interactive, The Rodder's Journal, Vail Hangair, Liberty Skis, and Echo Vail Resorts.