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How Skywriting Works

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Author's Note: How Skywriting Works

Not all of today's skywriters are intent on keeping the lost art's secrets. Some pilots and contractors seem to share pretty openly. Still, there appears to be something to Steve Oliver's comments about secrecy. I had a hard time finding detailed information on the smoke-producing "machinery" and the exact composition of the "paraffin-based fluid." And it's worth noting that Oliver gave a warning about the information that is out there: In the past, he said, skywriting pilots were known to provide false information to throw off their competitors. I believe I got it right. But if Oliver is to be believed, who knows. Or maybe Oliver is providing false information about providing false information ...

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