The Pilot: Michael Vaknin

Michael’s passion for flight started at the age of 18, as a paratrooper, and later as an airborne instructor. In his 4 years of service, Michael has performed hundreds of static line jumps, sky-dives from C-130's, DC-3's and more.

Passion for aviation led Michael to take flying lessons and earn his commercial pilot and flight instructor certificates. Instructing at local flight schools Michael logged hundreds of hours helping new pilots achieve their goals in aviation.

The affair with aerobatics started immediately after earning the private pilot certificate, a short ride in a ZLIN Z-242 and Mike was hooked.

Today Michael is an active IAC Competitor and an ICAS member, performing at air shows around the Country.

Michael’s style brings precision, speed, head dazzling Gyroscopic and high G maneuvers to airshow center. 

To maintain proficiency during the contest and air show seasons, Michael flies twice a day, five days a week.   

Michael is currently employed as a commercial pilot with American Airlines

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The Airplane: EXTRA300L

AIRFRAME

Two-seat, tandem arrangement, low-wing aerobatic monoplane with

conventional (taildragger) landing gear.

ENGINE

Lycoming AEIO-540 L1B5, Modified 400 hp 6-cylinder Engine, 400 Horse Power/ 2700RPM/ Sea level.

PROPELLER

Muehlbauer, MTV 9-B-C / C200-15, 3-blade Propeller.

DIMENSIONS

Wingspan ..............................................................26 ft 3 in / 8 meters

Length.............................................................. 22 ft 10 in / 6.9 meters

Height ...................................................................8 ft 7 in / 2.6 meters

Wing Area ..................................... 115.2 sq ft / 10.7 square meters

FAA Certified Load Factor ..................................................... +/- 10 g

Michael Vaknin Extra 300