Albastar A1
| A1 | |
|---|---|
| Role | Motor glider |
| National origin | Slovenia |
| Manufacturer | Albastar Ltd |
| Designer | Pavel Potočnik |
| Status | Production completed |
| Unit cost |
€39,900 |
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; 196 kn (225 mph)
- Maximum glide ratio: 40:1
- Rate of sink: 0.58 m/s (114 ft/min)