I absolutely love how genuine and enthusiastic Mike is! He's the sort of person I'd love to be able to spend time with and learn about building airplanes. I'm sure I would learn more than I could ever dream of, and enjoy every minute. My only regret is that I have but one like to give.
Rocket Surgeon I DON'T KNOW HOW OLD YOU ARE BUT I AM ALMOST 70 YEARS OLD AND I CAN SAY THAT MANY OF THE PEOPLE AROUND LIKE MIKE I HAVE KNOWEN ARE NOT TRULY RUNNING ON JUST PASSION BUT ON DRUGS , OF ALL KINDS.
So cool. What's so great about these vids is... 1.) Mike seems like a super cool dude. 2.) To maintain the level of enthusiasm and sense of humor throughout such a big project is amazing. I've spent the last two months working on my truck and I'm pretty much ready to push it into the ocean while yelling obsenities at it. 3.) To have the resources to do so much custom work on your own personal project. EVERYthing is billet aluminum. EVERYthing is machined or laid up just right. 4.) How many modifications were done, how cool the modifications are, and how everything is overbuilt and redundant. It's exactly how I would do every project if I had the fabrication skills and shop resources! It's like watching someone do a project EXACTLY the way I would do it. I'm not even an aviation guy but I watched most of these and will go back and watch the rest. Awesome work on a killer project. Great stuff. Keep it up.
I’m new to the world of Mike Patey and so happy I found his channel. Could not stop watching this beautiful build. Truly the worlds most interesting man!
I just watched all of the build videos for DRACO and I must say you have an amazing talent. More people would get into general aviation if they saw these videos. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Mike, I just spent the morning watching your Draco videos. What an Awesome Build, can't wait for first flight! A Thanks to Trent for the heads up on your channel.
I love how happy this guy is. He’s so excited through the whole build. This is just great. It’s so awesome seeing someone so passionate about something.
WOW! Hi Mike. I have been an aircraft mechanic for 30 years , I have worked on new aircraft production , airline line maintenance , turbine conversions etc. But this is hands down the best build / conversion I have seen. Your attention to detail and workmanship is amazing! I havent seen new aircraft that look as well finished. Bravo sir.
Dude, I literally see you comment on every video I watch - surprised to see you on a relatively obscure aviation channel such as this. I've been watching your content for close to a decade now, see you around ;)
Mike, I have been following you for only 6 months and just finished the entire Draco build series and I am just blown away. You are such an inspiration to me as a builder, father, aviator and one of the hardest workers I've ever seen. Can't wait to watch you for years to come Mike!!
I've gotta say Mike, this has been really inspirational. Its cliche but it made me realize that we can really do anything we want. If you would've asked me before I saw these videos if it's possible for a few guys to swap engines for a turboprop, build a custom panel, and do a crap ton of awesome carbon fiber work? I would have said no, but seeing this has made me realize if people doubt I can do something I can just think, "Well Mike made Draco fly"
Mike, I have to say this is the most impressive job I have ever seen. I retired from Gulfstream Aerospace with 42 years service as a Sr. Master Craftsman and your attention to details and workmanship is second to none. Outstanding job!
Your passion for aviation is contagious and your energy is unbelievable. I've been involved in or at least exposed to aviation since I was a toddler when my father bought a 1941 Luscombe and I was in airframe structural repair in the Army but I've never met anyone with the talents and skills you have. This was truly an incredible build, you have done an amazing job!
The best thing about your videos, is that the adhd style of editing videos keeps you interested. Even my 6 year old wants to watch all the videos....although red is his favorite color. Thanks for everything Mike! It shows what's achievable!
What a fantastic transformation. Congrats on all that hard work .... and you've got an unbelievable partner in life to back you up on these adventures. What a gal! Better take her out on the town. Looking forward to the "first" maiden flight of the New Draco. Best.
I'm so happy I found this channel! I have been an automotive technician and enthusiast for the past 20 years and because of these videos I am falling in love with aviation!!! I love watching and learning about the techniques involved in building and modifying aircraft and Mike's infectious, positive energy always brightens my day. Can't wait for more videos to watch!!! Thank you so much for sharing your projects and all of your experience and knowledge! Really, really love what you're doing with these videos!
Mike, thank you for taking us along for the ride of building this plane. Your skills, energy, and enthusiasm, is contagious !!! CONGRATULATIONS !!! You have inspired me to set a goal of building a KitFox and come fly with the 'Flying Cowboys' !!!
Breathtaking build... People swarming all over the cockpit as you ready for Oshkosh - can't wait for Draco 17. No news from Trent as he leaves without you!
Just binge watched all your videos. As an ex-electro-mechanical engineer, and current pilot, I appreciate your genius and enthusiastic work ethic. I really enjoyed this. Well done, dude.
Mike you just have accomplished a marvelous feat of 1 man engineering ,design and construction in such a short time that not words can described it. Simply awesome and amazing.
just found you this morning. I found the air show first then I binged 1-16. I must say that's not usual for me. You really got something good here, very good. But I think the best is you're instilling you craft and work ethic in your children. I would of loved to grow up with a Dad like you. God bless you and may he watch over your flights.
Man Mike i enjoy your positive enthusiasm and "REAL HAPPINESS" thank you Mike youve helped create more joyfull fillings after losing my wife to stage 4 breast cancer recently, you make me feel happy, i have lost some hope in myself but i feel your videos can help. Sincerly, Marc G.
I saw footage of Draco arriving at Oshkosh Air show on another fellows youtube channel. He could not take the smile off his face as he walked you around the plane while you described everything you had done building plane. I then found your series on rebuilding this plane to its present configuration. Just amazing the skill you have, blending imagination, art and science.
Mike,I must qualify my comments by stating that I am not a pilot. Sailboats are my thing.However, your "Draco" upgrade is he most incredible build series I have ever seen. Your passion,skill and determination was a joy to behold. I loved every minute ! Thank you
I'm in awe with your skills! Mechanical, electronics, engineering, flying, you excell in it all! Just inspiring. Makes me wish I had finished my pilot training when I was a lot younger. Back in them days the training to 40 hr. was only $750..I was about to solo and quit. What a DA!
Mike Patey, you have just captured vision, passion, innovative engineering, relentless pursuit of a dream, entertainment, experimenting, spirit of EAA, bush pilot fantasy, goal setting, perseverance into an amazing journey. Thank you SO MUCH for sharing this so that we could come along for the ride and experience your journey. I hope to see Draco in person some day. I'm an hour flight away. Best of luck to you at OSH! I believe you'll steal the show. You deserve it. What a lot of work you did (and others).
Mike ! You are awsome man, one man show, truly jack of all trades, love watching your Wilga getting all the upgrades and flying, you are truly genious, I love when you involve your children, future engineers and pilots, what a beautiful family, stay safe
Mike, I cannot express how much you are an inspiration to me. I have turned many of my friends onto you and this channel. They are not even interested in aircraft, but I have expressed that your enthusiasm and positive attitude are something that we all need to capture and imitate. I have my wife and kids also now watching and loving the playlist about Draco. My daughter is a freshman at MIT studying Material Science Engineering. For her, this video is a GREAT example of real world working of material sciences and practical applications. This Draco playlist is a great life lesson. It shows how creativity, dedication, skill, knowledge and flat out hard work, all rolled up to create something far beyond what was thought possible. You do not have to even like airplanes to be inspired by the Draco playlist. I am not sure that even you can fully understand how important this project has been to us out here. I cannot wait to see what you have planned next as you alluded to in this last episode. Thanks again Mike.
I remember the first time I saw your plane, it was in one of Trent Palmer's videos and I was immediately intrigued. Your Wilga is a work of art and every part of it reflects something of you and your family's character. Started out watching Trent's videos and found the rest of you guys thanks to him. I am giving serious consideration to getting licensed and maybe one day owning a Kitfox before my time is up.
Mike it was a pleasure to watch your Draco build series. You sir are the embodiment of the American Dream. I wish you the very best in your future endeavors - just remember to video your future builds! Thanks for sharing.
Just wanted to congratulate you, Mike, on a truly sensational aircraft conversion. I've never flown an original or 2000 model Wilga, but I think if its designers saw Draco, they'd say that you've found the true heart of the aircraft, brought it out of its shell and probably created what they'd really envisioned for it. Simply magnificent. You do realize, though, that you've created a monster in more than name and airplane only? Because you're going to have guys selling their right nuts and camping on your hangar doorstep begging for conversions... :)
Mike, your passion, enthusiasm, discipline, and hard work are truly inspiring! Congrats on the finish, it has to be a truly amazing feeling to fly what you just built. I am a life long fan!
A man living out his dream............ ......the envy of millions. What a fantastic life. My hat is off to you sir. Congratulations to obtaining your current goals. This aircraft is simply AMAZING! to say the least. I admire your drive, excitement ........and your skills. Wow!!! Beautiful family with a great dad! Way to go. An inspiration to all to go after what you want as this man has done. This achievement is simply over the top!!! Whaaaaaaaat a unique aircraft. And thank you very much for the tutorials. They are much appreciated. You go man!!!
Mike Patey is next level awesome. I’m a young motorcycle builder and your craftsmanship, skill and knowledge is legendary sir. I’m so happy I found this channel. Taking inspiration from you on the daily. Keep it up please!
Mike, Your enthusiasm is amazing and Draco is amazing, your vision and your work ethic just blow me away. Having your knowledge/skills and all of your resources, a full fab/machine shop doesn’t hurt either…… can’t wait to see your next build, been a machinist/tool & die maker for 25 years+ so if ya need some help………. Now Get Back to WORK!!!!!!!!!! LoL…God Speed & Keep the Shiny Side Up
I've been doing composite layups for around 4 years now for Air Tractor and its so amazing seeing you make molds in a matter of minutes from start to finish! Such an amazingly talented person to watch work!!
Mike, you’re an amazing human!!! I’ve had the privilege of working with some exceptional people over the years but your transaction of the Wilga into the incredible Draco in the short timeframe you did puts you at the very top of my list!!! Trent, thanks for the video introduction to Mike and the Draco!
Mike you are an absolute genius, love this super nice well constructed airplane, one can tell you put much thought into your designs, and family oriented to boot, two thumbs up pal.
Awesome plane but what amazes me more is watching this guy. A ton of knowledge an he is so excited. You can tell what his passion is. I could see him designing a kit plane an selling it with all his knowledge.
Your enthusiasm is intoxicating. So glad I found your plane build series, beast of a plane man congrats on finishing! Been enjoying watching the series, thank you for taking us along on the ride!
Mike, thank you for doing these videos on the Draco, not only is it one of the absolutely coolest aircraft I have ever seen, but your energy and excitement is contagious, keep up the videos, can't wait to see it in action in the bush 👍
Thank you for videos. Man, those Wilga's are awesome aircraft. The cuts you had of just rolling over things, what a hoot! Thank you for your videos and inspiration.
Sir I hope you get a chance to read this. I just stumbled over your channel and I have to say I'm in awe. I'm a glider pilot and got towed by the PZL 104 Wilga in Eastern Europe where it's very popular with glider clubs. I'm used to seeing them do their regular take off runs, and just saw one of your take offs on Air Show Stuff's channel. I'm still adjusting my brain to the reality that a Wilga can have such a short take off run and such a steep climb angle. Also seeing winglets and a glass cockpit on a Wigla, is what us kids used to dream about jokingly back at the air club, knowing that even imagining it is somewhat unrealistic -- you've made it happen haha, thank you! Now I can share this with my flying buddies and we can all be in awe together. Lastly, I can't imagine what a wild ride it must be to get towed in a glider behind this beast! Have you ever considered that, and did yours ever come with a towing hook? Much love and respect from the other side of the planet! Suffice to say you got yourself a new subscriber LOL.
Dear Mike I don't know if you will ever read this but if you do you should be very proud of yourself that someone from nagaland which is a small state hidden in the northeastern part of India watches all of your videos and m very sorry for what happened to Draco but it's not the end of the world right,now can't wait to watch Scrappy doing something amazing.nywys love you God bless you and your family.love your humility and always keep doing what you do.
This video series has been so great on so many levels. Even if you never knew anything about planes, just the incredible ability to carbon fiber an aircraft into existence like that, from conception to creation in a few minutes in some cases, its enough to keep you watching. The knowledge and experience is so admirable. I wonder how many "traditional" pilots have decided to get into STOL aircraft because of these videos (and the whole Flying Cowboys experience really). Again, what a fun video series to watch! Good job!
It's a gorgeous plane Mike. I'm excited to see the performance! Thanks for sharing the engineering commentary for us engineering nerds who have stuff like this as a dream project.
I found your channel a few days ago and I have to say, I enjoyed all of your Draco videos. That plane is incredible as well as your amazing talents and engineering skills. I am in awe.
What a beautiful plane, absolutely one of a kind and your hard work attention to detail shows in this build.. you have earned all of the success this plane is going to bring you
That's man and machine at its finest right there! I believe this is my fourth time watching this series on Draco and I can tell you it never gets old. If you haven't watched the whole thing, do it otherwise you're missing out, its incredible and don't forget to subscribe! Thanks for putting these videos together Captain Mike!💺Also whoever else was involved helping you! 🛩
Wow! So awesome. I was at Spanish a few weeks ago and saw Draco in your hangar from a distance while taxiing by. So delightful to find your excellent videos. Thanks for producing them!
BIG Congrats to you Mike. Been watching your journey building your DRACO from start. Unprecedented !!!. I am in Awe. Thank you thank you and thank you -
Mike, Just want to say thank you for sharing. Just finished binge watching all the Wilga mod videos. Incredible journey and I’m a little jealous….No scratch that. A lotta jealous! Again, Thanks for sharing and have fun at Oshkosh.
So glad you made it but so sad no more build videos on the Draco!! I've watched them all in two rainy days! What a machine... With the passion you show building it nothing can go wrong. Enjoy your AirVenture and hope to see you there next year, I need to see this bird in real person!! All the best from Barcelona!!
Outstanding, Sir! And from the videos of Oshkost it flies as well as it was planned to. You are a true inspiration! Well done. Thank you for sharing this great series of videos. Peter Lloyd
I run a little technical service and engineering company and I am a student pilot. You are awesome! And quite an inspiration! Congratulations on completing your Wilga upgrades! Beautiful plane!
I just discovered this channel and i rarely ever binge watched an entire channel in one day but oh boy was it worth it. Can't wait for more videos on this one. And it's such a beautiful plane with a lot of character.
The Draco build series is incredible. Mike, you are definitely a Jack of all trades. I am currently getting my Com licence and you made me more keen than ever to do my AME course when I'm done to learn all the craftsmanship required to build an aircraft. Great job, keep it up !
But most importantly,,, whatever you do, do it with Mike attitude during a project. With that attitude a person can do anything set before them. Thanks for the vids and the 'tude Mike!
There are some elegant planes in that shed, both on the ground and on photographs hanging on the wall. Looking on the lines of those planes, I must say that these people are highly intelligent and they have a sensitive feel for dynamics and what is more they can build it all in practical terms, Congratulations to all and I like the sense of humour while this gentle man works his masterpieces with such dedication. Many years ago we had a go at building the Berkut and that was an eye opener for me in dealing with blue foam and other modern material and how we tried to use every nick and cranny to put extra fuel in it including the hollow spar . The Draco is beautiful plane with ample power. I wonder if it could use that exhaust to blow the tailplane/rudder so that on reverse pitch , the air mushroom that is created would not reverse on to them cutting their control abilities.
Mike, thank you for this fantastic series of videos. I have found your build fascinating and inspiring. Congratulations on your success with this airplane! Judging from the number of youtube videos, Draco was the sweetheart of Oshkosh this year. Well done, sir!!!
I am in awe. This series competes with or surpasses anything I've seen on public television in all my 63 years.
Dude, I came to your page because of Trent Palmer. I literally watched all 16 episodes in one night. Great job and beautiful aircraft.
Don’t lose this passion Mike....it feeds all of us👍🍻
I absolutely love how genuine and enthusiastic Mike is! He's the sort of person I'd love to be able to spend time with and learn about building airplanes. I'm sure I would learn more than I could ever dream of, and enjoy every minute. My only regret is that I have but one like to give.
Rocket Surgeon I DON'T KNOW HOW OLD YOU ARE BUT I AM ALMOST 70 YEARS OLD AND I CAN SAY THAT MANY OF THE PEOPLE AROUND LIKE MIKE I HAVE KNOWEN ARE NOT TRULY RUNNING ON JUST PASSION BUT ON DRUGS , OF ALL KINDS.
@@davidgrenis638 .....You think Mike's on DRUGS ????? Let's check your Medicine Cabinet.
So cool. What's so great about these vids is...
1.) Mike seems like a super cool dude.
2.) To maintain the level of enthusiasm and sense of humor throughout such a big project is amazing. I've spent the last two months working on my truck and I'm pretty much ready to push it into the ocean while yelling obsenities at it.
3.) To have the resources to do so much custom work on your own personal project. EVERYthing is billet aluminum. EVERYthing is machined or laid up just right.
4.) How many modifications were done, how cool the modifications are, and how everything is overbuilt and redundant. It's exactly how I would do every project if I had the fabrication skills and shop resources! It's like watching someone do a project EXACTLY the way I would do it.
I'm not even an aviation guy but I watched most of these and will go back and watch the rest. Awesome work on a killer project. Great stuff. Keep it up.
I’m new to the world of Mike Patey and so happy I found his channel. Could not stop watching this beautiful build. Truly the worlds most interesting man!
You are such a genuine guy. The world needs more of you.
I just watched all of the build videos for DRACO and I must say you have an amazing talent. More people would get into general aviation if they saw these videos. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Mike, I just spent the morning watching your Draco videos. What an Awesome Build, can't wait for first flight! A Thanks to Trent for the heads up on your channel.
I love how happy this guy is. He’s so excited through the whole build. This is just great. It’s so awesome seeing someone so passionate about something.
WOW! Hi Mike. I have been an aircraft mechanic for 30 years , I have worked on new aircraft production , airline line maintenance , turbine conversions etc. But this is hands down the best build / conversion I have seen. Your attention to detail and workmanship is amazing! I havent seen new aircraft that look as well finished. Bravo sir.
Beautiful plane. Love the color choice.
Dude, I literally see you comment on every video I watch - surprised to see you on a relatively obscure aviation channel such as this. I've been watching your content for close to a decade now, see you around ;)
Oh, you did not know? Taofledermaus is GOD! He sees EVERYTHING! And we all love him! Much hailings from Nigeria!
Mike, I have been following you for only 6 months and just finished the entire Draco build series and I am just blown away. You are such an inspiration to me as a builder, father, aviator and one of the hardest workers I've ever seen. Can't wait to watch you for years to come Mike!!
Thanks to all MEN like Mark who continue to innovate and push aviation forward!
I've gotta say Mike, this has been really inspirational. Its cliche but it made me realize that we can really do anything we want. If you would've asked me before I saw these videos if it's possible for a few guys to swap engines for a turboprop, build a custom panel, and do a crap ton of awesome carbon fiber work? I would have said no, but seeing this has made me realize if people doubt I can do something I can just think, "Well Mike made Draco fly"
Mike, I have to say this is the most impressive job I have ever seen. I retired from Gulfstream Aerospace with 42 years service as a Sr. Master Craftsman and your attention to details and workmanship is second to none. Outstanding job!
Your passion for aviation is contagious and your energy is unbelievable. I've been involved in or at least exposed to aviation since I was a toddler when my father bought a 1941 Luscombe and I was in airframe structural repair in the Army but I've never met anyone with the talents and skills you have. This was truly an incredible build, you have done an amazing job!
WOW! Insane and a beautiful beast. Can't wait to see her fly!
The best thing about your videos, is that the adhd style of editing videos keeps you interested. Even my 6 year old wants to watch all the videos....although red is his favorite color. Thanks for everything Mike! It shows what's achievable!
What a fantastic transformation.
Congrats on all that hard work .... and you've got an unbelievable partner in life to back you up on these adventures. What a gal! Better take her out on the town.
Looking forward to the "first" maiden flight of the New Draco.
Best.
I'm so happy I found this channel! I have been an automotive technician and enthusiast for the past 20 years and because of these videos I am falling in love with aviation!!! I love watching and learning about the techniques involved in building and modifying aircraft and Mike's infectious, positive energy always brightens my day. Can't wait for more videos to watch!!! Thank you so much for sharing your projects and all of your experience and knowledge! Really, really love what you're doing with these videos!
Holy Crap, That thing is absolutely gorgeous!
Mike, thank you for taking us along for the ride of building this plane. Your skills, energy, and enthusiasm, is contagious !!! CONGRATULATIONS !!!
You have inspired me to set a goal of building a KitFox and come fly with the 'Flying Cowboys' !!!
Breathtaking build... People swarming all over the cockpit as you ready for Oshkosh - can't wait for Draco 17. No news from Trent as he leaves without you!
I like this guy, he is so happy with his airplane. Unbridled enthusiam. Inspirational.
Just binge watched all your videos. As an ex-electro-mechanical engineer, and current pilot, I appreciate your genius and enthusiastic work ethic. I really enjoyed this. Well done, dude.
Mike you just have accomplished a marvelous feat of 1 man engineering ,design and construction in such a short time that not words can described it. Simply awesome and amazing.
Ralph Madera He is one super talented guy.
@@Mikepower1978 it is more about passion and tons of work rather then talent...
just found you this morning. I found the air show first then I binged 1-16. I must say that's not usual for me. You really got something good here, very good. But I think the best is you're instilling you craft and work ethic in your children. I would of loved to grow up with a Dad like you. God bless you and may he watch over your flights.
Man Mike i enjoy your positive enthusiasm and "REAL HAPPINESS" thank you Mike youve helped create more joyfull fillings after losing my wife to stage 4 breast cancer recently, you make me feel happy, i have lost some hope in myself but i feel your videos can help. Sincerly, Marc G.
I saw footage of Draco arriving at Oshkosh Air show on another fellows youtube channel. He could not take the smile off his face as he walked you around the plane while you described everything you had done building plane. I then found your series on rebuilding this plane to its present configuration. Just amazing the skill you have, blending imagination, art and science.
Mike,I must qualify my comments by stating that I am not a pilot. Sailboats are my thing.However, your "Draco" upgrade is he most incredible build series I have ever seen. Your passion,skill and determination was a joy to behold. I loved every minute ! Thank you
I'm in awe with your skills! Mechanical, electronics, engineering, flying, you excell in it all! Just inspiring. Makes me wish I had finished my pilot training when I was a lot younger. Back in them days the training to 40 hr. was only $750..I was about to solo and quit. What a DA!
Mike Patey, you have just captured vision, passion, innovative engineering, relentless pursuit of a dream, entertainment, experimenting, spirit of EAA, bush pilot fantasy, goal setting, perseverance into an amazing journey. Thank you SO MUCH for sharing this so that we could come along for the ride and experience your journey. I hope to see Draco in person some day. I'm an hour flight away. Best of luck to you at OSH! I believe you'll steal the show. You deserve it. What a lot of work you did (and others).
Mike ! You are awsome man, one man show, truly jack of all trades, love watching your Wilga getting all the upgrades and flying, you are truly genious, I love when you involve your children, future engineers and pilots, what a beautiful family, stay safe
Love your enthusiasm and fun you have.
Mike, I cannot express how much you are an inspiration to me. I have turned many of my friends onto you and this channel. They are not even interested in aircraft, but I have expressed that your enthusiasm and positive attitude are something that we all need to capture and imitate. I have my wife and kids also now watching and loving the playlist about Draco. My daughter is a freshman at MIT studying Material Science Engineering. For her, this video is a GREAT example of real world working of material sciences and practical applications. This Draco playlist is a great life lesson. It shows how creativity, dedication, skill, knowledge and flat out hard work, all rolled up to create something far beyond what was thought possible. You do not have to even like airplanes to be inspired by the Draco playlist. I am not sure that even you can fully understand how important this project has been to us out here. I cannot wait to see what you have planned next as you alluded to in this last episode. Thanks again Mike.
Mike for the past two days I've watched this series of videos. It has helped me get through kidney stones! Alwesome aircraft!!!
I remember the first time I saw your plane, it was in one of Trent Palmer's videos and I was immediately intrigued. Your Wilga is a work of art and every part of it reflects something of you and your family's character. Started out watching Trent's videos and found the rest of you guys thanks to him. I am giving serious consideration to getting licensed and maybe one day owning a Kitfox before my time is up.
I highly recommend it!!!
Love you man, your passion is infectious. And Draco is absolutely brilliant
Thanks Trent for sending me here! Very cool. I'm enjoying this build, especially the composites stuff.
Amazing how you can mix hightech engineering with down-to-earth manual works. Really an example. Congratulations.
Mike it was a pleasure to watch your Draco build series. You sir are the embodiment of the American Dream. I wish you the very best in your future endeavors - just remember to video your future builds! Thanks for sharing.
Just wanted to congratulate you, Mike, on a truly sensational aircraft conversion. I've never flown an original or 2000 model Wilga, but I think if its designers saw Draco, they'd say that you've found the true heart of the aircraft, brought it out of its shell and probably created what they'd really envisioned for it. Simply magnificent. You do realize, though, that you've created a monster in more than name and airplane only? Because you're going to have guys selling their right nuts and camping on your hangar doorstep begging for conversions... :)
Mike, your passion, enthusiasm, discipline, and hard work are truly inspiring! Congrats on the finish, it has to be a truly amazing feeling to fly what you just built. I am a life long fan!
I'm not really into planes, but your enthusiasm is infectious! Can't wait to see more of Draco.
A man living out his dream............ ......the envy of millions.
What a fantastic life. My hat is off to you sir. Congratulations to obtaining your current goals.
This aircraft is simply AMAZING! to say the least. I admire your drive, excitement ........and your skills. Wow!!!
Beautiful family with a great dad!
Way to go. An inspiration to all to go after what you want as this man has done. This achievement is simply over the top!!! Whaaaaaaaat a unique aircraft. And thank you very much for the tutorials. They are much appreciated. You go man!!!
Mike Patey is next level awesome. I’m a young motorcycle builder and your craftsmanship, skill and knowledge is legendary sir. I’m so happy I found this channel. Taking inspiration from you on the daily. Keep it up please!
Mike, Your enthusiasm is amazing and Draco is amazing, your vision and your work ethic just blow me away. Having your knowledge/skills and all of your resources, a full fab/machine shop doesn’t hurt either…… can’t wait to see your next build, been a machinist/tool & die maker for 25 years+ so if ya need some help………. Now Get Back to WORK!!!!!!!!!! LoL…God Speed & Keep the Shiny Side Up
totally awesome! congratulations Mike what a build!!!
I've been doing composite layups for around 4 years now for Air Tractor and its so amazing seeing you make molds in a matter of minutes from start to finish! Such an amazingly talented person to watch work!!
Mike, you’re an amazing human!!! I’ve had the privilege of working with some exceptional people over the years but your transaction of the Wilga into the incredible Draco in the short timeframe you did puts you at the very top of my list!!!
Trent, thanks for the video introduction to Mike and the Draco!
Mike you are an absolute genius, love this super nice well constructed airplane, one can tell you put much thought into your designs, and family oriented to boot, two thumbs up pal.
Awesome plane but what amazes me more is watching this guy. A ton of knowledge an he is so excited. You can tell what his passion is. I could see him designing a kit plane an selling it with all his knowledge.
That is a great idea!
What a project!!! This is the most badass restoration I've followed on TH-cam. Can't wait for the sights and sounds once the Beast is awakened.
I'm going through withdrawal.
I will watch anything you post, anything.
I feel ya maaaan I feel ya
Your enthusiasm is intoxicating. So glad I found your plane build series, beast of a plane man congrats on finishing! Been enjoying watching the series, thank you for taking us along on the ride!
Mike, thank you for doing these videos on the Draco, not only is it one of the absolutely coolest aircraft I have ever seen, but your energy and excitement is contagious, keep up the videos, can't wait to see it in action in the bush 👍
F-104 pilot : This is simply very very outstanding work by a very outstanding man,THANK VERY MUCH ...........! May God bless you and your family !
Thank you for videos. Man, those Wilga's are awesome aircraft. The cuts you had of just rolling over things, what a hoot! Thank you for your videos and inspiration.
One word........sick!!! Love this place!!!
Sir I hope you get a chance to read this. I just stumbled over your channel and I have to say I'm in awe. I'm a glider pilot and got towed by the PZL 104 Wilga in Eastern Europe where it's very popular with glider clubs. I'm used to seeing them do their regular take off runs, and just saw one of your take offs on Air Show Stuff's channel. I'm still adjusting my brain to the reality that a Wilga can have such a short take off run and such a steep climb angle. Also seeing winglets and a glass cockpit on a Wigla, is what us kids used to dream about jokingly back at the air club, knowing that even imagining it is somewhat unrealistic -- you've made it happen haha, thank you! Now I can share this with my flying buddies and we can all be in awe together. Lastly, I can't imagine what a wild ride it must be to get towed in a glider behind this beast! Have you ever considered that, and did yours ever come with a towing hook? Much love and respect from the other side of the planet! Suffice to say you got yourself a new subscriber LOL.
I used to work at Boeing so to watch you do this stuff is awesome. can't wait to watch them all. Keep them coming.
I thin I'm almost as excited as you to see Draco fly!! What an outstanding job you've done!
Dear Mike I don't know if you will ever read this but if you do you should be very proud of yourself that someone from nagaland which is a small state hidden in the northeastern part of India watches all of your videos and m very sorry for what happened to Draco but it's not the end of the world right,now can't wait to watch Scrappy doing something amazing.nywys love you God bless you and your family.love your humility and always keep doing what you do.
This video series has been so great on so many levels. Even if you never knew anything about planes, just the incredible ability to carbon fiber an aircraft into existence like that, from conception to creation in a few minutes in some cases, its enough to keep you watching. The knowledge and experience is so admirable. I wonder how many "traditional" pilots have decided to get into STOL aircraft because of these videos (and the whole Flying Cowboys experience really). Again, what a fun video series to watch! Good job!
This whole series was addicting...sat down and watched every single video! Absolutely beautiful airplane...Post anything Draco please!!!
It's a gorgeous plane Mike. I'm excited to see the performance! Thanks for sharing the engineering commentary for us engineering nerds who have stuff like this as a dream project.
I found your channel a few days ago and I have to say, I enjoyed all of your Draco videos. That plane is incredible as well as your amazing talents and engineering skills. I am in awe.
What a beautiful plane, absolutely one of a kind and your hard work attention to detail shows in this build.. you have earned all of the success this plane is going to bring you
Well done Mike, impressed by your selflessness and inspired by your family work! Long life to Draco and keep safe...!
That's man and machine at its finest right there!
I believe this is my fourth time watching this series on Draco and I can tell you it never gets old. If you haven't watched the whole thing, do it otherwise you're missing out, its incredible and don't forget to subscribe!
Thanks for putting these videos together Captain Mike!💺Also whoever else was involved helping you! 🛩
What a great work of ART, The best video's I ever seen, God has Blessed you with greatness!
My favourite channel for real brilliant engineering by far
Wow! So awesome. I was at Spanish a few weeks ago and saw Draco in your hangar from a distance while taxiing by. So delightful to find your excellent videos. Thanks for producing them!
Awesome. Great work Mike Patey. You are a person to look up too. Lots of respect from Europe and I wish you all the best.
You Sir, are my new hero. Fantastic craftmanship...watched all your build logs all the way through. Kind regards from the U.K
CH
Faaark dude, nothing scares you. An absolute pleasure to watch you work. And what an incredible piece of engineering! THE DRACO!!!!
my wife is out of the hospital, your video posted in my list, this is a great day !
That's awesome that your Family is involved with the build too. This is a great episode
BIG Congrats to you Mike. Been watching your journey building your DRACO from start. Unprecedented !!!. I am in Awe. Thank you thank you and thank you -
Mike, WOW!!! The Draco is a whole new breed of aircraft! Bravo!!!
Yes! So glad I was able to stop in during the progress. Can't wait to see it fly in person!
Mike,
Just want to say thank you for sharing. Just finished binge watching all the Wilga mod videos. Incredible journey and I’m a little jealous….No scratch that. A lotta jealous! Again, Thanks for sharing and have fun at Oshkosh.
You are an incredible engineer , constructor . Son of Einstein . Thanks for posting .
So glad you made it but so sad no more build videos on the Draco!! I've watched them all in two rainy days! What a machine... With the passion you show building it nothing can go wrong. Enjoy your AirVenture and hope to see you there next year, I need to see this bird in real person!! All the best from Barcelona!!
Can’t wait to see this beast in the air! I’ve been keeping my eyes to the sky, over here in Salem, hoping for a Draco sighting!
Outstanding, Sir! And from the videos of Oshkost it flies as well as it was planned to. You are a true inspiration! Well done. Thank you for sharing this great series of videos. Peter Lloyd
I run a little technical service and engineering company and I am a student pilot.
You are awesome! And quite an inspiration! Congratulations on completing your Wilga upgrades! Beautiful plane!
I just discovered this channel and i rarely ever binge watched an entire channel in one day but oh boy was it worth it. Can't wait for more videos on this one. And it's such a beautiful plane with a lot of character.
The Draco build series is incredible. Mike, you are definitely a Jack of all trades.
I am currently getting my Com licence and you made me more keen than ever to do my AME course when I'm done to learn all the craftsmanship required to build an aircraft.
Great job, keep it up !
Your kids are so lucky to have such a great happy dad.
Amazing. Your ingenuity, passion and joy are truly inspiring.
Thank you, so much, for sharing all your hard and impressive work.
What a fantastic end result!
Happy flying!
Dude - you're having way too much fun!! Outstanding!!
But most importantly,,, whatever you do, do it with Mike attitude during a project. With that attitude a person can do anything set before them.
Thanks for the vids and the 'tude Mike!
OK, let's get to work, I'm so excited. Mike is the definition of hard work, great!
There are some elegant planes in that shed, both on the ground and on photographs hanging on the wall. Looking on the lines of those planes, I must say that these people are highly intelligent and they have a sensitive feel for dynamics and what is more they can build it all in practical terms, Congratulations to all and I like the sense of humour while this gentle man works his masterpieces with such dedication. Many years ago we had a go at building the Berkut and that was an eye opener for me in dealing with blue foam and other modern material and how we tried to use every nick and cranny to put extra fuel in it including the hollow spar . The Draco is beautiful plane with ample power. I wonder if it could use that exhaust to blow the tailplane/rudder so that on reverse pitch , the air mushroom that is created would not reverse on to them cutting their control abilities.
What a positive and great energy you have . Humble man with great knowlegde.
God bless you man.
Mike, thank you for this fantastic series of videos. I have found your build fascinating and inspiring. Congratulations on your success with this airplane! Judging from the number of youtube videos, Draco was the sweetheart of Oshkosh this year. Well done, sir!!!
That’s some plane, Mike. Your enthusiasm is inspiring and now I want to fly.....