Wings Forum

DaveDormer · Joined: 28 Sep 2004 Posts: 2 Location: South Africa

Do I have the skills to build a Dragonfly?

While everyone's capabilities differ, we believe a person of average skill and ability can complete this aircraft, using only basic hand tools. No welding with the kit is required, and a good finish may be achieved using automotive type processes. Building time will vary with each individual, but we estimate that the kit can be built in less than 1000 hours.

What is the Dragonfly constructed from?
The structure is fabricated primarily using aircraft foam with bi-directional glass cloth and epoxy. Pre-impregnated cloth/epoxy is also used in the structure. The wing and canard employ carbon fiber cloth for rigidity in the spar sections. Metals used include either chrome molybdenum (4130) or 2024 aircraft aluminum.

What engine is used in the Dragonfly?
The Dragonfly has been fitted with a number of engine options including Jabiru, Subaru, HAPI VW, Corvair, Lycoming and Continental. Dart Industries has currently chosen the Jabiru 2200 (80-hp) engine and the Jabiru 3300 (120-hp) engine as standards for the aircraft due to their weight, reliability and cost. Other options are available.

How much weight will the Dragonfly carry, and will I fit?

The Dragonfly was redesigned to accommodate a 6 ft-6” tall pilot, however the seat back may need to be moved aft. The cabin width is nearly the same as that of a Cessna 172 at 43”. The generous useful load is designed to accommodate today's more standard pilot.

How fast is it? What is the stall speed?
With the Jabiru 2200 cruise should average around 130 mph. The Jabiru 3300 should push the cruise up into the 160 mph cruise range while providing a slight increase in gross weight, but tests are forthcoming on this combination. Stall speed can be expected to range between 55 and 65 mph depending on weight. Because of the equal span canard design the Dragonfly does not stall in the fashion of a single wing aircraft, but instead induces a bobbing motion, as the canard and wing alternatively lose lift while the nose seesaws. As a result, it is virtually impossible to enter a stall/spin scenario.

How hard is it to fly?

The Dragonfly is a docile airplane that an average pilot can handle. The tri-gear MKIII makes ground handling easy for transition from traditional aircraft.