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.