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The Melsheimer FM-1 is an American single-seat, high-wing, FAI Open Class glider that was designed and constructed by Frank Melsheimer.[1][2][3]

FM-1
The FM-1 in its original prototype configuration with the T-tail
Role	Glider
National origin	United States
Designer	Frank Melsheimer
First flight	1968
Introduction	1968
Status	Production completed
Number built	One

Design and development

The FM-1 was first flown in 1968. The designation indicates the designer's initials.[1][2]

The FM-1 features mixed construction. The aft fuselage and wings are constructed from wood, with the forward fuselage made from welded steel tubing, covered in fibreglass. The wing employs a NACA 4400R airfoil. The aircraft was originally constructed with a T-tail, but this was later changed to a conventional low tail. The cockpit accommodation is one seat in a semi-reclining position.[1][2]

Only one example was completed and registered in the Experimental - Amateur-built category.[1][2][3]

Operational history

As of May 2011 the FM-1 was still on the Federal Aviation Administration registry.[3]

Specifications (FM-1)

Data from Sailplane Directory and Soaring[1][2]

General characteristics

• Crew: one
• Wingspan: 51 ft 0 in (15.54 m)
• Wing area: 125 sq ft (11.6 m²)
• Aspect ratio: 21:1
• Airfoil: NACA 4400R
• Empty weight: 500 lb (227 kg)
• Gross weight: 750 lb (340 kg)

Performance

• Maximum glide ratio: Estimated 35:1 at 60 mph (97 km/h)
• Rate of sink: 108 ft/min (0.55 m/s) at 40 mph (64 km/h)
• Wing loading: 6.0 lb/sq ft (29 kg/m²)

See also

Related lists

• List of gliders

References

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