Quickie Aircraft Corporation
Quickie Aircraft Corporation
The Quickie Aircraft Corporation was an innovative player in the field of homebuilt aircraft during the late 20th century. Established in Mojave, California in 1978, the corporation quickly garnered attention for its pioneering designs in the aviation sector. The company was formed by Tom Jewett and Gene Sheehan, with significant design contributions from the renowned aerospace engineer Burt Rutan.
The Quickie Aircraft
The Quickie was the company's flagship model, a unique single-seat, single-engine aircraft that featured a distinctive tandem wing configuration. This aircraft was primarily constructed from composite materials, which was a novel approach at the time. The Quickie was designed to be lightweight and efficient, providing an economical solution for aviation enthusiasts who were interested in building their own aircraft.
The design process was supported by Burt Rutan, who was also involved in the creation of the Rutan VariEze and the Rutan Voyager, both significant in the field of experimental aircraft. The first Quickie was completed and ready for public introduction by April 1978, and it made a spectacular debut at the Experimental Aircraft Association's annual gathering in Oshkosh, Wisconsin the same year, where it won the Outstanding New Design award.
Expansion and Other Models
Following the success of the initial model, Quickie Aircraft Corporation expanded its offerings with the introduction of the Quickie Q2 and the Quickie Q200. The Q2 was a two-seat version, extending the accessibility of the Quickie's innovative design to a wider audience. These models continued to use the tandem wing design and were available in kit form, allowing aviation enthusiasts to personally construct their aircraft.
Another ambitious project by the corporation was the Quickie Free Enterprise. Also known as the Big Bird, this was an American experimental long-range aircraft developed during the 1980s. However, despite the technical innovations, this project did not achieve the same level of commercial success as the original Quickie.
Challenges and Bankruptcy
Despite early achievements, the Quickie Aircraft Corporation faced significant challenges. The company struggled financially after several setbacks, including legal battles and the tragic death of co-founder Tom Jewett in an unrelated aircraft crash. The financial instability was further exacerbated by a failed appeal in court, which left the company in dire financial straits. Consequently, the company declared bankruptcy in 1986, marking the end of its operations.
Legacy and Influence
The Quickie Aircraft Corporation, despite its eventual dissolution, left a lasting impact on the world of aviation. Its innovative approach to aircraft design, particularly the use of composite materials and the unique tandem wing configuration, influenced future designs and set new standards for homebuilt aircraft. The contributions of Burt Rutan and the collective vision of the company's founders continue to inspire aviation enthusiasts and engineers alike.