Melsheimer FM-1 explained

The Melsheimer FM-1 is an American single-seat, high-wing, FAI Open Class glider that was designed and constructed by Frank Melsheimer.^{[1] [2] [3]}

Design and development

The FM-1 was first flown in 1968. The designation indicates the designer's initials.

The FM-1 features mixed construction. The aft fuselage and wings are constructed from wood, with the forward fuselage made from welded steel tubing, covered in fibreglass. The wing employs a NACA 4400R airfoil. The aircraft was originally constructed with a T-tail, but this was later changed to a conventional low tail. The cockpit accommodation is one seat in a semi-reclining position.

Only one example was completed and registered in the Experimental - Amateur-built category.

Operational history

As of May 2011 the FM-1 was still on the Federal Aviation Administration registry.

Notes and References

1. Web site: FM-1 Melsheimer. 30 May 2011. Activate Media. 2006. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20120819220817/http://www.sailplanedirectory.com/PlaneDetails.cfm?PlaneID=106. 19 August 2012.
2. Said, Bob: 1983 Sailplane Directory, Soaring Magazine, page 48. Soaring Society of America November 1983. USPS 499-920
3. Web site: Make / Model Inquiry Results. 15 May 2011. Federal Aviation Administration. May 2011.