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Could the Inflatable Aircraft Concept Be Updated/Modernized?

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sanman

Well-Known Member
Joined
Feb 24, 2021
Messages
289
Back in the 1950s, Goodyear developed its Inflatoplane concept for the US military, using its newly developed Airmat technology. The idea was to create a collapsible/portable plane that could be airdropped to downed pilots for escape, but it was abandoned as alternatives like helicopter rescue became more viable.




But I wonder why it couldn't be revived or even redesigned completely, to serve the civilian consumer market?

Could it perhaps be done as a Part 103 aircraft, since the lighter inflatable body might more easily fit under Part 103 weight limits?

And what about a lower aspect ratio wing-body design, which perhaps might be more suitable for inflatable structures?

Perhaps inflatable structures could be complemented with some rigid load-bearing members capable of folding or collapsing by hinges, or joints, or by sliding.

The main purpose and selling point of an inflatable plane would be to serve as a collapsible and more portable alternative to other recreational ultralight aircraft.
 
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