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G. Michael Huffman
Sport Aviation Specialties, LLC

1512 Game Trail
Lawrenceville, GA 30044

770-548-1206

Copyright © 2005 - 2021
G. Michael Huffman
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Disclaimer: FAA regulations, orders, policies, ASTM publications, and other documents are subject to change and interpretation. Any information on this site that pertains to those documents is for reference only. It is the responsibility of visitors to verify all such information with the FAA or ASTM.

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Windecker Eagle

The Windecker Eagle was the first type-certificated all-composite aircraft in the U.S. Built in Midland, TX in the late 1960s, it was a four-place Bonanza-class aircraft with a Lycoming IO-520, constant-speed prop, and retractable gear. Mike Huffman was Chief Inspector during the type certification program.

Because its composite construction produced a small radar return, one of the Eagle prototypes was leased to the U.S. Air Force for radar testing, which was the beginning of stealth technology.

The company ceased operations in the 1970s and through the years various attempts were made to revive production. In 2014, the type certificate was puchased by a Chinese investor who has plans to manufacture the airplane in China for use there. He has had one of the original 1970s airplanes restored, complete with the engine upgraded to an IO-550, a full, modern glass panel, new seats, and even an air conditioner. The airplane is slated to go to China at some point; we were fortunate to be able to visit it in North Carolina at the restoration facility.