Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World - Chapter 265: Flight Test

Two months later, in the Axelsen & Nielsen Company Headquarters. Poul was overseeing the preparation for the first test flight of their piston-powered aircraft. The workers toiled diligently as they cleared the makeshift airfield on which the plane is going to take off.

Beside him was Timothy, who was doing some checklist for the upcoming test flight. Poul and Timothy had become an inseparable duo throughout the development process, working tirelessly to ensure every detail was accounted for.

“Timothy, how are we looking with the checklist?” Poul asked, his eyes scanning the bustling activity on the airfield.

Timothy double-checked his notes, his brows furrowed in concentration. “Everything seems to be in order, Mr. Nielsen,” he replied, a hint of excitement in his voice. “Fuel levels are optimal, control surfaces have been thoroughly inspected, and the engine is primed and ready.

Poul nodded his confidence about the upcoming flight test growing.

“But sir, you still didn’t answer my question yesterday.”

“About what?”

“Why are we using different fuel for the aircraft? Aren’t the automobile and the aircraft the same?”

Poul furrowed his brows, realizing that he had neglected to address Timothy’s question. He paused for a moment, contemplating how to provide a clear explanation.

“Timothy, you bring up an important point,” Poul replied, his tone earnest. “While both automobiles and aircraft use fuel, they are not exactly the same. The fuel requirements for aircraft are different due to the specific demands of aviation.”

He motioned for Timothy to join him in a quieter corner of the airfield, away from the bustling activities. They walked together, and Poul began to elaborate.

“Aviation fuel, commonly known as aviation gasoline or avgas, is specifically formulated to meet the unique needs of aircraft engines,” Poul explained. “It has a higher octane rating than automobile gasoline, which allows the engine to operate efficiently at high altitudes and under varying atmospheric conditions.”

“What does higher octane means?” Timothy asked, jotting down notes.

“Octane rating measures the fuel’s resistance to knocking or premature combustion,” he explained. “In simpler terms, it determines the fuel’s ability to withstand high compression ratios without detonating before the spark plug ignites it. Operating at higher altitudes puts more stress on the engine due to reduced air density, and the higher octane fuel helps prevent engine damage or loss of power in such conditions.”

“I see, thank you for answering my questions. Mr. Nielsen. Ever since we started working on the aircraft, my interest in it started to grow exponentially,” Timothy said with a wide smile, his eyes gleaming with newfound enthusiasm.

“Oh…you are moving to aviation huh? Well, not that I’m against it. You follow what you want,” Poul said.

“Mr. Nielsen,” a man called from behind. It was Walter. “The plane is ready.

“Really?” Poul clapped. “Then let’s get this show on the road, shall we?”

Poul and Timothy rushed back to the aircraft. The aircraft was based on the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, a legendary World War II fighter plane known for its robust design and formidable performance. It had a sleek, aerodynamic fuselage painted in a vibrant combination of silver and blue, with the company logo prominently displayed on its sides.

As they approached the aircraft, Poul couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride. The months of hard work and dedication had culminated in this moment. The plane stood tall, its wings stretching wide, ready to take to the skies for the first time.

“Sir, are you sure about this? You will be the one to fly the aircraft?” Timothy asked.

“Of course I am. I’m the one who designed this, so technically I know how to fly it better than anyone else,” Poul replied with a confident smile. “Besides, I trust our team’s workmanship. We checked every crook and cranny of this aircraft to make sure nothing fails.”

After saying that, Poul then hopped into the cockpit of the aircraft, settling himself into the pilot’s seat. He fastened his seatbelt and adjusted the control panel, familiarizing himself with the layout and instruments.

Poul glanced out of the cockpit window, making eye contact with Timothy. He gave him a reassuring nod.

With everything in place, Poul initiated the pre-flight checklist, going through each item meticulously. He double-checked the control surfaces, tested the communication systems, and ensured that all safety mechanisms were properly engaged.

The sound of the engine roared to life, sending vibrations through the airframe. The propellers began to spin, generating a gust of wind that rustled the surrounding dust.

The aircraft taxied along the makeshift runway, gaining speed as it approached the designated takeoff point. The moment had finally arrived, and the excitement in the air was palpable. The workers watched with bated breath, their eyes fixed on the aircraft, ready to witness history in the making.

Poul gripped the control stick firmly, his hands steady and focused. The anticipation built within him as he felt the power of the engine surging through the aircraft. He could sense the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, knowing that the success of this flight would have far-reaching implications for their company and the future of aviation.

As the aircraft reached the end of the runway, Poul pushed the throttle forward, unleashing the full power of the engine. The aircraft surged forward, accelerating rapidly. The wheels left the ground, and the plane lifted off, soaring into the sky with grace and elegance.

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as the aircraft climbed higher, leaving behind a trail of white smoke against the vibrant blue canvas of the sky. Poul felt a surge of exhilaration and pride coursing through his veins. The months of hard work and sleepless nights had paid off.

Poul made some maneuvers, testing the responsiveness of the aircraft. The controls felt smooth and precise, allowing him to execute turns and climb with ease. As he gained confidence in the aircraft’s capabilities, Poul decided to push it further, exploring its limits and pushing the boundaries of what it could achieve.

He performed a series of aerobatic maneuvers, delighting the onlookers below. The aircraft gracefully rolled, looped, and soared through the sky, showcasing its agility and performance.

And then, he conducted a low fly-by on their team. The aircraft zoomed past the spectators, the wind rushing through their hair as they watched in awe.

Thirty minutes later, Poul landed the aircraft smoothly on the makeshift runway.

As the propellers slowed down and the engine came to a halt, Poul opened the cockpit canopy and stepped out onto the wing. He was greeted with a sea of smiling faces and thunderous applause from the entire team. Timothy rushed forward, his eyes gleaming with admiration.

“Mr. Nielsen, that was incredible!”

Poul simply returned the gesture and celebrated among his team. This was the moment he wanted to experience. When he started his company, he wanted to expand on every avenue of industry, aviation is one of them.

“Let’s shock the world again,” Poul said.