With this in mind, several companies began introducing their own airplane design in a kit form. The amount of time needed for completion is a factor in building an airplane from a set of plans. Plans for composite airplanes could be purchased and then materials for each phase of construction could be obtained on an as needed basis. Supply companies began offering material kits to builders to simplify the building process. It was during this period of time that aircraft "kits" were first introduced. During the 1980’s, several other designs were introduced to sport aviation enthusiasts as popularity of this type of construction heightened. The VariEze was very successful inspiring Rutan to develop the Long-Eze. This airplane design included a more comprehensive type of composite construction using moldless techniques. Burt Rutan also introduced the VariViggen that featured some composite construction. Composite technology has certainly changed the entire aviation industry and in particular sport aviation.Īmateur-built composite airplanes were actually introduced during the 1970’s when Ken Rand introduced the KR-1. Of course we now see many airplanes that are constructed almost exclusively out of composite material. Fiberglass construction has been and continues to be used in manufacturing a number of parts found on most airplanes. Composite construction is yet another advancement for the aircraft industry. As each type of construction was introduced, design improvements were made in strength and aircraft performance. Beginning with wooden structures that were covered with fabric, technology then advanced to welded steel frameworks and on to aluminum. Throughout aviation history, advances in design have been made. Gliders have been constructed using fiberglass for many years. How are they built? What does the word "composite" actually mean? Are they safe? How difficult are they to build?Īctually, composite aircraft construction is not a new idea. To many of us these airplanes are somewhat mysterious. Certainly when we attend a large fly-in we see rows and rows of composite aircraft. These airplanes, composed largely of fiberglass, are becoming more and more popular. Within the sport aviation world, the term "composite aircraft" is synonymous with sleekness of design and speed.
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