RUTAN “VARIVIGGEN”€

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The VariViggen is an unusual tail-first, two-seat tandem pusher homebuilt aircraft, echoing the configuration of the Wright brothers' first flyer.
  • It is constructed primarily from wood and fabric, with a tubular-steel engine mount.
  • The aircraft is named after the Swedish Saab 37 Viggen fighter, despite its unique appearance.
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STANDARD DATA: Gross wt. 1,700. Empty wt. 950. Fuel capacity 25. Wingspan 19′. Length 19′. Engine 150-hp Lycoming.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 160. Cruise mph 152. Stall mph. 53. Climb rate 800. Takeoff run 800. Landing roll 500. Range 450.

One of the most unusual homebuilts ever designed also has an unusual name. Despite the unique appearance of the VariViggen, its basic design was actually the first shape that ever managed powered flight. The tail-first pusher configuration was also employed by the Wright brothers. This two-seat tandem pusher is named after the Swedish Saab 37 Viggen, a faster-than-Mach 2 delta-wing fighter with a canard surface. The airframe is all wood and fabric with the exception of a tubular-steel engine mount.

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