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Ship #2 - Our Flyable Replica
The AIAA Wright Flyer Project is currently constructing a second replica of
the 1903 Wright Flyer at the
Zenith Flight Services facility in Riverside, CA. This is the replica we intend
to fly in honor of the centennial celebration of the Wrights' achievement.
We welcome visitors, but do
request that you contact us prior to
any visit.
Ship #1 - Our Wind Tunnel Replica
The first replica, that which went to the wind tunnel
is available for viewing by the public. It is hanging in the FAA building
in Lawndale, CA, and is subject to the new security measures, so walk in visits
are prohibited. Please contact us
if you wish to see it.
Flight Tests
As part of the continuing engineering analysis of the data obtained from the
1999 Wind Tunnel Test, the AIAA
Wright Flyer Project was supported by flight tests of a Learjet 24D Variable
Stability In-Flight Simulator aircraft modified to have the same handling
characteristics of the Wright Flyer. These tests have prompted several questions
as to how a 145 knot, jet airplane can possibly fly like a wood and fabric
covered 27 knot biplane. Here we offer a brief
explanation, oriented to the layman.
Nationwide Tour
The national offices of the American
Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics
is developing a tour schedule for our non-flyable replica.
As part of the
Evolution of Flight Campaign, AIAA will tour the 1903
Wright Flyer replica to various locations in the year leading up to December,
2003. If you are interested in seeing one of our airplanes, please make
plans to visit one of these events.
My name is Giovanni Tomasi and I was the anchor for the Wright Brothers' Flyer story. When we discovered that this historical reproduction treasure was coming to our area, my cameramen Ryan Kortmann and Dan Cryan decided that this would be an excellent student news story. Read more...
Copyright © 2001-2003, AIAA Wright Flyer Project, all rights reserved.