Long range flight with rear engine only

[SkyKing]

One other thing, even the "Performance - Specifications" on sheet number "ii" in the front of the POH specifies "Certificated Maximum Operating Altitude" as being rated as "Single OR Twin Engine" @ 20,000 feet, although the SE Service Ceiling is 18,700 feet.

Obviously, one of the great redeeming features of the Skymaster with its center-line thrust, is its abillity to fly on a single-engine. Why not take advantage of it, especially on a long-distance flight when time is not a factor?

As far as the Skymaster requiring a lot of power to maintain altitude, or needing to "worry" about what you would be doing to the engine, that would seemingly depend on how the airplane is loaded, and using proper piloting technique with the necessary amount of mixture and cowl flaps to keep things in the green. I just don't see how you'd 'hurt' the engine, all things considered.

SkyKing