HUMMELBIRD
INTRODUCTION
The Hummelbird was designed by Morry Hummel in 1980. Like all other aircraft in the Hummel fleet, the Hummelbird is an all metal construction. The aircraft is small and efficient yet rugged, rated for 6G's. The Hummelbird was designed to use a 1/2 Volkswagen. Contact us for information about engine suppliers.
The aircraft, like it's sister planes, is extremely maneuverable and efficient. Unlike the Ultracruiser, it does not fall under Part 103 of the FAR (Federal Aviation Regulations). This means that the aircraft must be registered to the FAA, and comply with any airworthiness standards. This also means that the pilot in command must possess the appropriate licenses and medical certifications. The builder (you) must also complete 51% of the aircraft to comply with the FAA experimental light sport requirements. Luckily, the plans for this aircraft are easy to read and easy to finish. Most builders can complete the aircraft from scratch in 1200 hours. Although Hummel Aircraft Company only sells plans, and not kits for the Hummelbird, many parts are available for purchase.
For detailed history of the Hummelbird, please view our About page.
Read more below, or look at buying a kit on our store page!
AIRCRAFT FEATURES
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All metal construction
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Small footprint for easy storage
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Removable wings
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Stressed for 6 G's
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Very comfortable, maneuverable and responsive.
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Light aerobatics (no spins)
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High roll rate (excess 250 degrees/second)
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Plan built only, with many parts available for purchase
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Tri-gear and traditional (tailwheel gear) on plans
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Rigid and shock gear (for grass fields)
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Full size parts shown on plans
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An outstanding and economical sport pilot aircraft
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Great 1/2 Volkswagen engine performance
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Wingtips on plans, although not required
AIRCRAFT SPECIFICATIONS
DIMENSIONS & AIRFOIL
AIRFOIL : MODIFIED CLARK-Y
WING SPAN : 18 OR 21 FT
WING AREA : 57.2 OR 63.5 SQ FT
WING LOADING : 9.6 OR 8.6 LBS/SQ FT
LENGTH : 13 FT 4 IN
WEIGHT
EMPTY WEIGHT : 310 LBS
GROSS WEIGHT : 550 LBS
"G" RATING : 6
PERFORMANCE
HP (RANGE) : 32 - 45 HP
VNE : 145 MPH
CRUISE : 100 - 115 MPH
STALL : 42 MPH
TAKEOFF RUN : 300 FT
RATE OF CLIMB : 400 - 800 FT/MIN
LANDING DISTANCE : 800 FT
FUEL
FUEL CAPACITY : 6 GAL
FUEL BURN : 1.6 - 2.0 GAL/HR