Embarking on the Upgrade:
The sun had just begun to paint the sky with the hues of dawn when we, a dedicated team of aviators, gathered around the sleek lines of the GB 1 aerobatic aircraft. Known for its agility in the skies, this taildragger had one significant ground-based flaw – its limited forward visibility during taxi. This was the day we decided to remedy that, embracing modern technology to enhance the classic beauty of tailwheel aircraft.

The Vision of Enhanced Safety:
We knew from experience that taxiing a conventional gear aircraft like the GB 1 involved constant S-turns, a dance of vigilance to avoid unseen obstacles. The idea of installing a taxi camera wasn’t just about convenience; it was about safety, about transforming every taxi into a smooth, confident journey rather than a cautious zigzag.

The Installation Begins:
Our journey started with the aircraft’s inherent advantage – it was pre-wired for this very upgrade. However, the wires were merely dangling behind the panel, disconnected and awaiting our touch. Warren from Cilliers Aviation, our go-to guru for all things mechanical in our fleet, led the charge. With his expertise, we knew this wasn’t just an installation but an elevation of our flying experience.
First, we tackled the wiring. The GB 1’s design was forward-thinking, but it left us with the task of connecting the dots. Soldering BNC connectors for video input and ensuring power was fused correctly was meticulous work, but vital. Each connection was a step closer to that clear view ahead.

Mounting the Camera:
Next, we moved to the aircraft’s underbelly, where visibility was most needed. The camera was to be mounted on the leading edge of the right landing gear strut. Here, precision was paramount. We used a specialized drilling tool to make a clean passage for the camera wire, ensuring no damage to the aircraft’s structure.
The camera’s bracket required exact positioning, involving the drilling of holes for screws that would hold it steadfast. But it wasn’t just about drilling; it was about ensuring the camera would stand the test of time and turbulence. We glued clip bond nut plates inside the strut with care, using silicone rubber adapters to keep the glue out of the screw threads, a small detail with significant implications for the camera’s longevity and reliability.

Testing the Waters:
With the camera in place, the moment of truth approached. We powered up the system, our eyes on the screen where our new field of vision would appear. Adjustments were made; the camera needed to be level, its view optimized for the pilot’s needs. We tested it by taxiing down the runway, where previously we’d have been weaving back and forth, now we could see the path ahead clear as day.
The camera didn’t just show us the immediate vicinity; it transformed our understanding of the ground environment, turning what was once a blind spot into a well-lit path. Yet, we were mindful – this was no tool for flying, just for taxiing. Its wide-angle lens was perfect for spotting nearby hazards but not for navigating the skies.

The Final Touches:
Our installation wasn’t complete without ensuring the camera blended into the aircraft’s aesthetic. A paint job to match was in order, though we chuckled at the initial color mismatch – a reminder that perfection often requires a second look.

Conclusion – A New Era of Ground Operations:
As we wrapped up, the sun now high in the sky, we reflected on the journey. Installing the taxi camera wasn’t just about adding a piece of technology; it was about redefining safety and efficiency for our GB 1. It was a story of how innovation can respect tradition, ensuring that even as we soar into the future, our roots in aviation remain strong.
This camera would now accompany every taxi, every ground maneuver, a silent guardian against the perils of blind taxiing, ensuring that each journey begins and ends with clarity and confidence.