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>My calculations indicate that the standard fuel
capacity (header tank, wing tanks,  no extended tanks) should give about
500
miles, with an alternate 100 miles from the destination, allowing for 45
minutes of fuel remaining.  Is this in the ballpark?<

Assuming a Lancair 320/360, 200 knot cruise, 11GPH burn, 44 gallons of fuel
on departure, I get 550 nautical miles or 630 statute miles to the
destination.  Of course, you could slow down to 170 knots or run leaner and
go considerably further.  The FAA's "normal cruise" fuel consumption only
applies to the 45 minute reserve.  Also, an alternate 100 miles away is a
bit unusual.  I can usually find one within 50.

Another point is that an aircraft with a 100 knot cruise will only go 75
miles on the reserve while a Lancair 320/360 will go 150 miles. As a
result, I don't mind pushing the legal reserves in this fast machine. Also
an alternate is only required when the weather at the destination is less
than the 1/2/3 rule.

Your conclusion is very conservative but in the ballpark.  Three hours
continuous flying to the destination is enough for me.  My bladder would
really be hurting if I actually had to go to the alternate.  If you can
stand to sit longer and are willing to restrict payload, then more fuel
could be useful but not in my case.  This is a personal decision.

Jim Frantz  
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