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Gehrlein GP-1
American glider From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The Gehrlein GP-1 is an American mid-wing, single seat FAI Standard Class glider that was designed by Jay and Rod Gehrlein and first flown in July 1968.[1][2]
Design and development
When their father, glider pilot Larry Gehrlein was on an extended vacation, his two sons, Rod and Jay decided to design and build a new glider as a surprise for his return. The resulting GP-1 was designed and built in under a year, between the summer of 1968 and the summer of 1969.[1][2]
Unlike Larry Gehrlein's earlier Gehrlein Precursor, the GP-1 is an original design and uses no Schweizer Aircraft parts in its construction.[2]
The GP-1 is an all-metal aircraft, with a 15 m (49.2 ft) wingspan. The wing is of a constant 30 in (76 cm) chord and employs a Wortmann FX-61-184 airfoil. Glide path control is via a set of scissor-type spoilers and air brakes. The design was intended to be simple to construct. Kits were at one time offered for sale with at least five aircraft being completed.[1][2]
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Operational history
In May 2011 there were still four GP-1s on the Federal Aviation Administration registry.[3]
Specifications (GP-1)
Data from Sailplane Directory and Soaring[1][2]
General characteristics
- Crew: One
- Wingspan: 49 ft 3 in (15 m)
- Wing area: 120 sq ft (11 m2)
- Aspect ratio: 20:1
- Airfoil: Wortmann FX-61-184
- Empty weight: 458 lb (208 kg)
- Gross weight: 662 lb (300 kg)
Performance
- Maximum glide ratio: 35:1 at 60 mph (97 km/h)
- Rate of sink: 120 ft/min (0.61 m/s) at 50 mph (80 km/h)
- Wing loading: 5.5 lb/sq ft (27 kg/m2)
See also
Related lists
References
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