Wichawk (Javelin Aircraft)


A side-by-side two-place biplane, the Wichawk offers simplification, easy construction and easy flying to the homebuilder. It makes an excellent first project, because it is both simple and goof-proof. Designer David D. Blanton, president of Javelin Aircraft Company of Wichita had the best interests of amateur constructors at heart when he started developing the little ship.

As a matter of record, Blanton started the development in 1964, and didn't make the first flight until 1971. "It takes a long time to develop a perfectly sound airplane with a complete drawing file," he points out. The drawing file, we might add, consists of 50 sheets of production quality prints, for which Javelin charges a nominal $125.

The Wichawk is designed to meet all FAA criteria.

The cockpit of the Wichawk is 36-1/2 inches wide, the same width as a Piper Pacer, and easily accommodates two men. There's a baggage area that will take up to 100 pounds behind the cockpit, but if you like, you can build the Wichawk as a three-place airplane, with a solo pilot's seat behind the two place front cockpit. If you opt for this, Blanton recommends the use of one of the heavier six-cylinder engines, and the mounting of the battery on the firewall to counterbalance the added weight and moment.

specifications
 
powerplant
propeller
length
height
wing span
wing area
seats
empty weight
useful load
gross weight
fuel capacity
range
Lyc. 0-360 HP Range180/160-300
x
x
7.2 ft
24 ft
185 sq. ft
2
1281 lb
x

2040 lb
gal 40
500 n.m

performance

takeoff distance, ground roll
rate of climb
max speed
cruise speed
landing distance, ground roll
service ceiling
600 ft
1700 fpm
140 mph
127 mph
400 ft
18,000 ft

limiting and recommended speeds

design manoeuvring speed (Va)
never exceed speed (Vne)
stall, power off (Vsl)
landing approach speed
x
x
56 mph
x

All specifications are based on manufacturer's calculations