Luton Buzzard Explained

Buzzard
Type:Ultralight
Number Built:1
Unit Cost:325 GBP (Buzzard I)[1]

The Luton Buzzard was a 1930s British single-seat, open cockpit ultralight aircraft built by Luton Aircraft Limited.

History

The Buzzard was a single-seat ultralight of wooden construction, fitted with split flaps and an all-flying tailplane, and powered by a 35 hp Anzani inverted Vee air-cooled engine. The Buzzard was designed by C.H. Latimer-Needham, and built by Luton Aircraft at Barton-in-the-Clay, Bedfordshire in 1936. The only Buzzard, registered G-ADYX and designated the Buzzard I first flew in 1936. On 16 November 1936, it was damaged during landing at Christchurch, Hampshire.[2]

In 1937, it was rebuilt as the Buzzard II with short-span wings, enclosed cockpit and an orthodox tailplane. On 8 May 1938, it was damaged beyond repair while being demonstrated at a Royal Aeronautical Society 'garden party' at Great West Aerodrome. In 1943, the aircraft remains were destroyed when the company's Phoenix Works at Gerrards Cross burnt down.[2]

Variants

Buzzard I
  • Prototype open cockpit ultralight, one built.
    Buzzard II
  • Buzzard I rebuilt with enclosed cockpit and other modifications.

    Notes and References

    1. Taylor . H.A. . A BUZZARD in its ELEMENT: Flying the Latest Ultra-Lightweight: Sailplane Characteristics of the Luton Buzzard: The Pleasant Pusher . Flight: The Aircraft Engineer and Airships . 13 August 1936 . XXX . 1442 . p.p. 190–191.
    2. Book: Jackson, A.J.. British Civil Aircraft since 1919 Volume 3. 1974. Putnam. London. 0-370-10014-X . 261.