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Maximum speed: 91 mph Empty weight: 421 lbs. Maximum weight: 643 lbs. Span 18' 2" Length: 12' 6" Height: 5' 8" Wing area: 108 sq. ft. Henri Mignet's utra-light Pou du Ciel (Flying Flea) tandem-wing light plane created considerable controversy in the 1930's. It was built in vast numbers all over the world in more than 300 variants, with a variety of engines. Development has continued since WWII, the basic post war single seat version being the HM-290 with a 25 hp Poinsard engine. It is a very simple design with a rudder providing directional control and pivoting the upper wing up and down for vertical control. This aircraft was built locally by John Sayle in 1962 but the design dates back to the 1920's. Due to the unavailability of European engines, John substituted a 75 hp McCulloch engine which was readily available surplus from target drones. John displayed RFH at airshows and generated considerable interest in the type. It made at least one flight, that resulted in damage to the aircraft. RFH was repaired and donated to the local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association who in turn donated it to the Canadian Museum of Flight in 1982. Photo: Brian Rempel | |
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