Gehrlein GP-1

The Gehrlein GP-1 is an American mid-wing, single seat FAI Standard Class glider that was designed by Jay and Rod Gehrlein and first flown in July 1968.[1][2]

GP-1
Role Glider
National origin United States
Designer Jay and Rod Gehrlein
First flight July 1968
Status Kits no longer available
Number built At least five

Design and development

When their father, glider pilot Larry Gehrlein was on an extended vacation, his two sons, Rod and Jay decided to design and build a new glider as a surprise for his return. The resulting GP-1 was designed and built in under a year, between the summer of 1968 and the summer of 1969.[1][2]

Unlike Larry Gehrlein's earlier Gehrlein Precursor, the GP-1 is an original design and uses no Schweizer Aircraft parts in its construction.[2]

The GP-1 is an all-metal aircraft, with a 15 m (49.2 ft) wingspan. The wing is of a constant 30 in (76 cm) chord and employs a Wortmann FX-61-184 airfoil. Glide path control is via a set of scissor-type spoilers and air brakes. The design was intended to be simple to construct. Kits were at one time offered for sale with at least five aircraft being completed.[1][2]

Operational history

In May 2011 there were still four GP-1s on the Federal Aviation Administration registry.[3]

Specifications (GP-1)

Data from Sailplane Directory and Soaring[1][2]

General characteristics

  • Crew: One
  • Wingspan: 49 ft 3 in (15 m)
  • Wing area: 120 sq ft (11 m2)
  • Aspect ratio: 20:1
  • Airfoil: Wortmann FX-61-184
  • Empty weight: 458 lb (208 kg)
  • Gross weight: 662 lb (300 kg)

Performance

  • Maximum glide ratio: 35:1 at 60 mph (97 km/h)
  • Rate of sink: 120 ft/min (0.61 m/s) at 50 mph (80 km/h)
  • Wing loading: 5.5 lb/sq ft (27 kg/m2)

See also

Related lists

References
  1. Activate Media (2006). "GP-1 Gehrlein". Archived from the original on 19 August 2012. Retrieved 11 May 2011.
  2. Said, Bob: 1983 Sailplane Directory, Soaring Magazine, page 43. Soaring Society of America November 1983. USPS 499-920
  3. Federal Aviation Administration (May 2011). "Make / Model Inquiry Results". Retrieved 15 May 2011.
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