Summary of the Weight and Balance, and The Drag Characteristics of a Typical Ultralight Aircraft

Since the entry of ultralight aircraft into the market in 1975, many changes have come about. With these changes, questions have arisen regarding the overall safety of these vehicles. This paper will show preliminary results of tests conducted to obtain an overall data base of a typical ultralight aircraft. These tests were conducted on an Airmass Sunburst Ultralight Model ‘C’ and include results from an experimental weight and balance as well as a theoretical drag analysis. The data base is viewed only as a starting point for allowing the ultralight industry to better understand the true characteristics exhibited by typical ultralight aircraft. This would allow for the design of safe ultralights under the current voluntary self-regulation program or any future programs that might be developed.