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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 Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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