The Windecker Eagle I has the distinction of being the first all-composite aircraft to receive FAA certification. The Eagle was the product of several years of experimentation by Dr. Leo Windecker and Dr. Fairfax Windecker, working with Dow Chemical Company, to develop lightweight fiberlass reinforced plastic structures for aviation use. A flexible, non-woven glass fiber material called "Fibaloy" was the result and led to the Windecker X-7 prototype.

In 1969, the Eagle I, a four-place, low-wing monoplane, received FAA certification only after building in a 20% over-designed airframe to make up for nervousness about the strength of composite materials. Six Eagles were completed but it was never able to break into the 1970s market that already held several well-established production aircraft. Nevertheless, it is a testament to the pioneering work in the field of composite materials.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Date

1969

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

CRAFT-Aircraft

Manufacturer

Windecker Research Inc.

Physical Description

White with gold trim; first all-composite aircraft certificated by FAA; fiberglass, resin structure; 1967.

Dimensions

Wingspan: 9.7 m (32 ft.)
Length: 8.7 m (28 ft. 6 in.)
Height: 2.9 m (9 ft. 6 in.)
Weight, Empty: 975 kg (2,150 lbs.)
Weight, Gross: 1,540 kg (3,400 lbs.)
Engine: Continental IO-520-C

Materials

Overall: fiberglass monocoque

Inventory Number

A19850619000

Credit Line

Gift of Tom Hairston and the Dow Chemical Company

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

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