Full Description
Based on experience with the earlier SZD-6X Nietoperz and SZD-13 Wampir tail-less gliders, the SZD-20X was an all wood flying wing, with the pilot sitting in a pod extending aft of the trailing edge on the centreline, and large swept fins & rudders at approx 2/3 span on each wing. The SZD-20X was associated with the number 15, having a 15m span, aspect ratio of 15 and wing area of 15m, whether this was by design or accident is not known. Early flight trials commenced with hops towed behind a car to test control responses, followed by an aero-tow launch on 9 September 1959, piloted by Adam Zientek. Flight trials revealed a marked sensitivity to turbulence resulting in flutter, and during trials at stalling speed, the SZD-20X entered a spin, which the rudders were unable to recover the aircraft from, only when the pilot shifted his weight as far forward as he could, did the SZD-20X recover from the spin.
Flying in the SZD-20X continued until 6 October 1959, when turbulence-induced flutter tore the aircraft apart, the pilot escaping with parachute.
Scale: 1/3
Wingspan: 5Mtr
Weight: 22Lb
Plan and Short Kit available from LaserCutSailPlanes.co.uk
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