Summary of the Formula V airframe rules:
Formula V airplanes are homebuilt and FAA licensed in the Experimental category.
- minimum 450 lb. empty weight
- minimum 75 sq. ft. wing area
- maximum 22 ft. wingspan
- minimum cockpit size 20 in. wide by 36 in. high
- non-retractable landing gear with two standard 5.00 x 5 wheels & aircraft tires
- fixed pitch, two blade, non-metallic propeller
- high structural strength + - 6 G's min. working load
- good all-around visibility
- many built-in safety features
- must use standard engine as described below
There are several existing designs, or (if you're capable) you can design your own. The current raceplanes designs in use are:
Monnett Sonerai-1
Race #14 Sonerai-1 "Beetlebomb" was built by Charlie Terry
of Kings Park, NY and won the 1985 National Championship. Blueprints & some prefabricated components are available from Great Plains Aircraft Supply Co., Inc. Box 545, Boys Town, NE 68010 (402) 493-6507. Ask for Steve Bennett, or email to Steve Bennett at gpasc@earthlink.net
Wittman V-Witt
This Wittman V-Witt was built by Jim Vliet of Red Bank, NJ Blueprints are available from Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co.
Cassutt III-M with Formula V engine
[photo not available]
The Cassutt racer, a popular design used in Formula One air racing, can be used in Formula V air racing when fitted with the sport 75 sq. ft. wing and a Formula V engine. Blueprints and some prefabricated components available from National Aeronautics Company, 5611 Kendall Court, Unit #4, Arvada CO 80002 (303) 940-8442. Ask for Ib Hansen.
Summary of the Formula V engine rules:
shown: engine installation of #77 "Blueberry" - 96 cubic inch aircooled 4 cylinder [produces about 65 horsepower at
4,000 RPM]
- direct drive to propeller; gear reduction not permitted
- multi-point fuel injection, superchargers, or turbochargers are not permitted
- use only standard 100LL aviation gasoline and commercially-available oil,
additives not permitted
- additional engine limitation details are described in the Technical Rules Specification
Check out other rules for
Go to Formula V Air Racing Home Page