To witness a combination of fireworks and aerobatics in action, you definitely have to visit the Sanicole Sunset airshow on Saturday 21 September, when the master of motorglider aerobatics returns to the Sanicole sky to showcase his exceptional skill: Bob Grimstead in his Fournier RF-4D Redhawk.
Bob is passionate aviator from England who has been displaying the Fournier around Europe for years, both in formation and as a solo act. His mastery of the aircraft is mindboggling, flying the aircraft to the limits of its capabilities. Recently, he added an extra bit of sparkle to his already jaw-dropping display by hanging pyrotechnics from his motorglider. This adds a whole new dimension to his display, set to music. Bob has flown in excess of 250 aircraft types and has been part of the airshow scene since the 1980s. In fact, his first display at Sanicole was 40 years ago. This is the first time he presents his solo Redhawk act at our show though.
The RF-4D is a lightweight single-seat wooden motorglider, designed by René Fournier in the 1960s. It features a sleek, low-wing design with a folding propeller, allowing it to perform both powered flight and efficient gliding. The aircraft is known for its long, slender wings and excellent soaring capabilities, making it popular among glider enthusiasts. The RF-4D combines the best of both powered and unpowered flight, offering versatility and graceful handling.
Fabrikant/Manufacturer:
Alpavia / Sportavia-Pützer
Tech Specif::
Maximum speed: 196 km/h
Maximum altitude: 5 800 m
Range: 640 km
Empty weight: 270 kg
Power:
1 × Rectimo 4 AR 1200 (VW) air-cooled flat-four piston engine, 29 kW (39 hp)
