Rutan Long-EZ

The Rutan Model 61 Long-EZ is a homebuilt aircraft with a canard layout designed by Burt Rutan's Rutan Aircraft Factory. It is derived from the VariEze, which was first offered to homebuilders in 1976. The prototype (N79RA) of the Long-EZ first flew on 12 June 1979.

Related Topics:
Rutan - Homebuilt aircraft - Canard - Burt Rutan - VariEze - 1976 - 12 June - 1979

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The aircraft is designed for fuel-efficient long-range flight and can fly for over ten hours and up to 2,500 kilometers (1,600 miles) on 200 liters (52 gallons) of fuel. Equipped with a rear-seat fuel tank, a Long-EZ has flown for 7,700 kilometers (4,800 miles).

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The pilot sits in a semi-reclined seat and controls the Long-EZ by means of a side-stick controller situated on the right-hand console. In addition to having an airbrake on the underside, the twin tail's wing-tip rudders can be deflected outwards to act as auxiliary airbrakes. The aircraft will not stall in the manner of a conventional aircraft since, if the Long-EZ reaches too low a speed, the front (canard) wing will stall and lower the aircraft nose until speed is regained.

Related Topics:
Pilot - Side-stick - Airbrake - Twin tail - Rudder - Stall

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Singer-songwriter John Denver perished while flying a Long-EZ on October 12, 1997.

Related Topics:
John Denver - October 12 - 1997

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XCOR Aerospace have modified their Long-EZ and replaced the engine with twin liquid fuelled rocket engines to form the vehicle they call the 'EZ-rocket'. It is used as a demonstrator and will serve as the basis for aircraft used in the Rocket Racing League.

Related Topics:
XCOR Aerospace - Rocket Racing League

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