Qwiki

Quickie Q2

The Quickie Q2 is a two-seat variant of the innovative Rutan Quickie aircraft. This aircraft was developed by the Quickie Aircraft Corporation, which was founded in Mojave, California in 1978 by Tom Jewett and Gene Sheehan. The Quickie Q2 is a significant expansion of the original Rutan Quickie Model 54 design, known for its lightweight design and use of composite materials.

Design and Features

The Quickie Q2 retains the tandem wing configuration that was a hallmark of the original Quickie design. The aircraft exhibits a canard configuration, which is a distinctive feature in aircraft design. This design contributes to the aircraft's maneuverability and efficiency. The Quickie Q2 is built primarily of composite construction, which includes a combination of fiberglass, foam core, and epoxy resins.

The two-seat variant was developed to cater to the demands of pilots seeking an efficient, lightweight aircraft capable of accommodating a passenger. The increased size of the Quickie Q2 compared to its predecessor required modifications such as a strengthened airframe and an enlarged cockpit to ensure both comfort and safety for the occupants.

Powerplant and Performance

The Quickie Q2 features a more powerful engine compared to the single-seat variant, allowing it to support the additional weight of a second passenger without compromising performance. The original powerplant utilized in the Q2 was a Volkswagen air-cooled engine, which is noted for its reliability and ease of maintenance. The aircraft boasts impressive fuel efficiency, which has made it particularly popular with homebuilt aircraft enthusiasts.

Construction and Kit

One of the defining traits of the Quickie Q2 is that it was offered in kit form, allowing aviation enthusiasts and homebuilders to construct the aircraft themselves. This DIY approach was part of a broader trend in the late 20th century where composite construction techniques were becoming accessible to amateurs.

The kit provided by Quickie Aircraft Corporation included detailed plans and all necessary materials, empowering builders to bring their aircraft to life with a measure of personal customization. The construction process, while demanding, was seen as a rewarding venture for those passionate about aeronautics.

Legacy and Influence

The Quickie Q2, along with other designs by Burt Rutan, was instrumental in pioneering the acceptance of composite materials in private aviation. Rutan's designs, including the VariEze and Long-EZ, have left an enduring mark on the field of innovative aircraft design. The Quickie Q2 continues to be celebrated for its unique engineering and as a gateway for many into the world of experimental aviation.

Related Topics

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.

Related Topics