Luton Buzzard
| Buzzard | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Luton Buzzard (G-ADYX), Barton-in-the-Clay, August 1936 | |
| Role | Ultralight |
| Manufacturer | Luton Aircraft Limited |
| Designer | C.H. Latimer-Needham |
| First flight | 1936 |
| Number built | 1 |
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The Luton Buzzard was a 1930s British single-seat, open cockpit ultralight aircraft built by Luton Aircraft Limited.
History
The Buzzard was a single-seat ultralight of wooden construction, fitted with split flaps and an all-flying tailplane, and powered by a 35 hp Anzani inverted Vee air-cooled engine. The Buzzard was designed by C.H. Latimer-Needham, and built by Luton Aircraft at Barton-in-the-Clay, Bedfordshire in 1936. The only Buzzard, registered G-ADYX and designated the Buzzard I first flew in 1936. On 16 November 1936, it was damaged during landing at Christchurch, Hampshire.[1]
In 1937, it was rebuilt as the Buzzard II with short-span wings, enclosed cockpit and an orthodox tailplane. On 8 May 1938, it was damaged beyond repair while being demonstrated at a Royal Aeronautical Society 'garden party' at Great West Aerodrome. In 1943, the aircraft remains were destroyed when the company's Phoenix Works at Gerrards Cross burnt down.[1]
Variants
- Buzzard I
- Prototype open cockpit ultralight, one built.
- Buzzard II
- Buzzard I rebuilt with enclosed cockpit and other modifications.
Specifications (Buzzard II)
General characteristics
- Crew: 1
- Length: 21 ft 6 in ()
- Wingspan: 35 ft 6 in ()
- Height: ()
- Empty weight: 400 lb ()
- Max. takeoff weight: 600 lb ()
- Powerplant: 1 × British Anzani 35hp air-cooled inverted V-twin, 35hp ()
Performance
- Maximum speed: 95 mph
- Range: 180 miles ()
References
External links
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