Fokker D-VIII Run-Up

Kermit cranks up the glorious 160-hp Gnome rotary engine in his Fokker D-VIII, which was truly music to our ears. Andy has chased out the last of the gremlins in the engine. Check out Rob Lock on the prop with Andy and Wayne on the tail—just to keep it on the ground for a full run-up. Listen to that rotary purr... then growl. Can't wait to see it fly SOON.

[Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

FWIW, I did NOT know the D.VIII even existed until sometime in the last ~10 years {2010-ish -- 2020}, and I *AM* a self-proclaimed lifelong aviation nutcase! 😜

[TheAlice]

I saw this plane fly at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome today!

[amenic]

Originally called the E V, the high-winged Fokker was initially plagued by quality control problems similar to those that had haunted the Fokker Triplane. When the structural problems were resolved, the aircraft was redesignated D Vllll. Top speed was 127 mph - amazing in a 110-horsepower engine.

[neomuttley]

This looks like the D-VIII that I used to enjoy up in Rhinebeck, NY. It has the most awesomest exhaust note of any rotary I've heard. It sounded like metal on metal when it was flying. Still brings a smile to my face :-)...

[gdebruin]

This plane was originally built by Brian Coughlin of Cazenovia, NY...

[luftwicker]

Gotta love that awesome, nasty rotary noise.

[BunchyFishin]

in a way it sounds like a ticked off water sprinkler.

[ufoengines]

Very Cool! One my favorite airplane designs. Wish I'd had the chance to have flown one.

[Crazy.Rocketman]

I see the problem, your prop is made out of rubber....HA HA Great looking aircraft!

[tomasinacovell]

Yes this it the way they all sounded, why the fuck can't the stupid movies do it?