G.
Michael Huffman Sport Aviation Specialties, LLC 1512
Game Trail Lawrenceville, GA 30044
770-548-1206
Copyright © 2005 - 2021 G. Michael Huffman All rights
reserved
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. Site
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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. |