"In May 2014, both Thrush planes were flown from the U.S. across the Atlantic Ocean to Airborne’s hangar."
How common is it for single engine single seat aircraft to be flown across large oceans? Does the Thrush 510G have sufficient fuel capacity?
How common is it for single engine single seat aircraft to be flown across large oceans? Does the Thrush 510G have sufficient fuel capacity?
It is routine. SOCATA deliver their popular single-turboprop TBM aircraft from their factory in southern France via Ireland, Iceland and Canada to US customers. Likewise Pilatus stage PC-12s through Scotland as the first hop.
Spotters at Keflavik in Iceland have a great variety!
Cessnas flow in the other direction, though less frequently. Even a little piston-engined C172 has made the eastbound delivery journey and he skipped Iceland!
Usually the flights are made by contracted ferry pilots, from companies such as Southern Cross
I'm no expert nor have I done the calculations, but 12 hours sounds like enough time to cross the Atlantic. What I don't know is whether the fuel tank was expanded/replaced.
Typical cruise speed is 160mph and ferry range is only 800 miles, meaning it's taking the northern route across Goose Bay, Greenland, and Iceland.