Cargo Pods and Motorcycles

[SkyTraveler]

Hello everyone,

I'm working on a composite cargo pod to carry a REAL motorcycle beneath my airplane. "REAL" refers to a reliable 4-cycle motorcycle with electric start, 2-up riding and highway performance. After landing, it takes only a few minutes to extract the motorcycle, unfold the handlebars and ride away. Rental car and taxi services are only available at 1/3 of airports so I plan to reach more places on the motorcycle and add some fun to my cross-country flights.

Some aircraft owners have expressed interest in the pod/motorcycle combination and others are interested soley in the pod for additional cargo volume. I've posted a survey to better understand what pilots are looking for and how they might use a pod. Your participation would be very helpful!

Online Survey

More Info

Sincerely,
David Shelton

 

[whatkindoffreshhell]

Per IATA regulations you will have a problem carrying gasoline in that bike as cargo.

Good luck!

 

[SkyTraveler]

Per IATA regulations you will have a problem carrying gasoline in that bike as cargo.

Good luck!

I met with FAA engineers at the Aircraft Certification Office. The gasoline in the motorcycle was one of the first subjects that we discussed. While larger aircraft have fire detection/supression systems, they seemed pretty satisfied with the proposed design.

The motorcycle tank is of course already DOT certified. They were primarily concerned about the possibility of fuel leaking out of the tank and onto the floor of the pod. First, the motorcycle tank is vented through an 8-oz catch-can to help prevent leaks in the first place. Second, the pod is ventillated (NACA duct) and equipped with drain grommets in the floor to evacuate spilled liquids.

-David