Rutan Quickie Q1
The Rutan Quickie Q1 is a unique, single-seat, homebuilt aircraft designed by Burt Rutan, in collaboration with Tom Jewett and Gene Sheehan. The aircraft was introduced to the public in 1978 and is known for its distinctive tandem wing design and efficient performance.
Design and Development
The Quickie Q1 was designed with the goal of creating an easy-to-build and fly aircraft that would not tax the skills of the average homebuilder. The design features a tandem wing configuration, with one forward wing and one rear wing, instead of the more conventional main wing and tailplane setup. This layout was inspired by the Mignet "Flying Flea" and aimed to provide high efficiency and low drag.
Construction
The Quickie Q1 is constructed using composite materials, specifically glass fiber and resin over a foam core. The wings are made from foam blanks cut to shape with a hot wire, followed by a microslurry and resin/fiberglass layup. The fuselage is constructed from one-inch-thick foam slabs, also covered with resin and fiberglass.
Prototype and Testing
Construction of the prototype began in August 1977 at the Rutan Aircraft Factory. The prototype, registered as "N77Q" (77 for 1977, Q for Quickie), was completed in about 400 hours. The flight test program started in November 1977, with Rutan, Jewett, and Sheehan all taking turns flying the aircraft.
Performance and Specifications
The Quickie Q1 is powered by an 18-horsepower Onan industrial generator motor. This choice of engine was part of the design philosophy to use low-powered, efficient engines. The aircraft's tandem wing design, with an anhedral forward wing and a slightly larger dihedral rear wing, contributes to its unique flight characteristics.
Landing Gear
One of the most unusual features of the Quickie Q1 is its landing gear. The main wheels are located at the tips of the forward wing, which helps to reduce drag and improve efficiency. However, this design also posed challenges, such as propeller ground clearance issues during hard landings.
Quickie Aircraft Corporation
To produce and market the Quickie Q1 in kit form, Jewett and Sheehan formed the Quickie Aircraft Corporation in 1978. The company aimed to provide comprehensive kits and plans to homebuilders, making it easier for enthusiasts to construct their own aircraft.
Variants
Quickie Q2
In 1980, a two-seat variant of the Quickie Q1, known as the Quickie Q2, was introduced. The Q2 retained the tandem wing design but featured a larger Volkswagen-derived engine and side-by-side seating. Unlike the original Quickie, Rutan was not involved in the design of the Q2.
Tri-Q200
Another notable variant is the Tri-Q200, which features a tricycle landing gear configuration. This variant was developed to address some of the landing gear challenges faced by the original Quickie design.
Legacy
The Quickie Q1 remains a popular aircraft among homebuilders and aviation enthusiasts. Its innovative design and efficient performance have inspired a tight-knit community of builders who continue to support and develop the aircraft. Despite the Quickie Aircraft Corporation going out of business, original kits and parts are still sought after by enthusiasts.