Lockwood AirCam

Experimental aircraft have gotten complicated with all the kit options and marketing claims flying around. As someone who has logged time in an AirCam and talked with builders who spent years constructing theirs, I learned everything there is to know about this remarkable aircraft. Today, I will share it all with you.

I remember the first time I saw an AirCam in person at Sun n Fun – just stood there with my jaw hanging open. Two engines, completely open cockpit, and a view that makes you feel like youre floating on a magic carpet. Thats what makes the AirCam endearing to us aviation enthusiasts – its pure, unfiltered flying.

History and Development

Heres the backstory that still gets me: In the early 1990s, Phil Lockwood got a phone call from National Geographic. They needed an aircraft that could capture aerial photos over some seriously remote terrain in Africa – and nothing existing quite fit the bill. Lockwood, being the kind of guy who sees problems as puzzles, decided to build something from scratch.

Probably should have led with this, honestly – but the first prototype took to the air in 1995, remarkably fast considering what he was trying to accomplish. That initial flight showed everyone that Lockwood had nailed it: excellent performance, rock-solid reliability, and exactly the photo platform National Geographic had dreamed about.

Design Features

The twin-engine setup is the first thing most pilots notice. If one engine decides to take a nap mid-flight – and it happens – youre still flying. That peace of mind is worth everything when youre puttering along at 1,500 feet over backcountry rivers looking for wildlife.

But that open cockpit is really what makes the AirCam special. Im apparently addicted to wind-in-your-face flying, and theres nothing quite like the 360-degree unobstructed view you get up there. Nothing between you and the world below. Its why aerial photographers go absolutely crazy for this aircraft.

Performance Specifications

• Engines: Two Rotax 912 ULS engines, each producing around 100 horsepower.
• Max Speed: Approximately 90 mph – not winning any races, but thats not the point.
• Cruise Speed: Around 70-75 mph – perfect for taking in the scenery.
• Range: About 350 miles with reserves.
• Takeoff Distance: Roughly 300 feet – practically a helicopter.
• Landing Distance: Same deal – about 300 feet.

Safety Aspects

I keep coming back to the twin-engine thing because it matters so much. Redundancy in aviation isnt just nice-to-have – its what lets you sleep at night. The AirCam can stay airborne even if an engine fails, and thats a game-changer for backcountry operations where emergency landing options are limited.

The low-speed handling impresses me too. This bird flies stable at speeds as low as 55 mph – slow enough that youve got time to think, react, and recover if something goes sideways.

Customization and Kits

Heres where it gets fun for the tinkerers: you can build your own AirCam from a kit. I know guys whove done it, and they all say the same thing – the instructions are clear, the parts are well-made, and Lockwood Aviations support team actually picks up the phone when you call with questions.

Engine upgrades, avionics packages, modifications here and there – the customization options let you build exactly the aircraft you want. Most builders find the process genuinely rewarding. Theres something about understanding every rivet in your airplane that changes how you fly it.

Use Cases

Aerial photographers have basically claimed the AirCam as their own. The stability combined with that open cockpit creates photo opportunities you simply cant get any other way. Film crews love it for the same reasons.

But honestly? A lot of AirCam owners just use them for pure recreation. That wind-in-your-face feeling is addictive. Flight schools and adventure tourism outfits have figured this out too.

Community and Events

The AirCam community is tight-knit in the best way. The annual AirCam Owners Fly-In is one of those events where everyone knows everyone, modifications get shown off, and stories from the past year get swapped over cold drinks. Lockwood Aviation shows up at major aviation expos too, giving demonstrations that inevitably draw crowds.

Future Prospects

Lockwood Aviation keeps investing in the platform – new materials, better avionics, improved engine efficiency. The interest in these aircraft isnt slowing down. That unique combination of safety, performance, and pure joy of flight ensures the AirCam will remain a beloved choice for years to come.