canopy Latch

[brendanw]

Does anyone know about any requirements that back seat passengers be able to open the canopy? I suppose it would relate to the need to get out after a crash where the pilot is incapacitated. Does anyone have this feature incorporated into their latching system?

[Wayne Hicks]

Debbie Iwatate published a book of mods that included a canopy latch that could be released by one or more rear seat passengers. It featured a cable running from the canopy latch release to just aft of the forward satback. Pulling the cable released the capture device and released the canopy handle. Originally intended as a modification to the Long-EZ canopy latch, one could use this same design on the Cozy.

 

See Cozy Builder's FAQ 18.14. The FAQ is pretty old, but the book may still be available.

[brendanw]

The bottom line seems to be that a small handful of builders have made access to the latch or the location of the latch a consideration for use by passengers in the back seat but NOBODY has stated that there is a requirement to do so. Therefore, do it or don't do it, your choice.

[argoldman]

A back seat latch may be a good idea, but-------

 

If your back seat pax is not a sophisticated flyer of these birds, consider the scenario in which he/she panics due to a relatively minor, or even major situation and because of the knowledge and proximity, pops the canopy. Not too much of a prob for front hinged persuasion, however the side saddles may have a problem created by this seemingly safety orientated solution.