A1
Role Motor glider
National origin Slovenia
Manufacturer Albastar Ltd
Designer Pavel Potočnik
Status Production completed

The Albastar A1 is a Slovenian mid-wing, T-tailed, single-seat motor glider that was designed by Pavel Potočnik and produced by Albastar Ltd.[1]

Design and development

The A1 is a self-launching glider, with the standard 30 kW (40 hp) Rotax 447 mounted in tractor configuration on a retractable pylon behind the cockpit. When retracted the engine is hidden behind two doors. The German importer of the glider equipped his aircraft with a Hirth engine instead of the Rotax powerplant.[1]

The A1 is of mixed composite construction and is built from a combination of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer, kevlar and PVC foam. The 15 m (49.2 ft) span wing features winglets and produces a 40:1 glide ratio. The landing gear is a retractable monowheel gear. The price of the A1 in 2003 was €39,900.[1]

Specifications (2003 model A1)

Data from World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2003-04[1]

General characteristics

  • Crew: one
  • Wingspan: 15 m (49 ft 3 in)
  • Wing area: 12.26 m2 (132.0 sq ft)
  • Empty weight: 300 kg (661 lb)
  • Propellers: two-bladed wooden

Performance

  • Stall speed: 63 km/h (39 mph, 34 kn)
  • Never exceed speed: 362 km/h (225 mph, 196 kn)
  • Maximum glide ratio: 40:1
  • Rate of sink: 0.58 m/s (114 ft/min)

See also

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 Bertrand, Noel; Rene Coulon; et al: World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2003-04, page 53. Pagefast Ltd, Lancaster OK, 2003. ISSN 1368-485X
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