Melsheimer FM-1
# Melsheimer FM-1

The Melsheimer FM-1 is an American single-seat, high-wing, FAI Open Class glider that was designed and constructed by Frank Melsheimer.

## Design and development

The FM-1 was first flown in 1968. The designation indicates the designer's initials.

The FM-1 features mixed construction. The aft fuselage and wings are constructed from wood, with the forward fuselage made from welded steel tubing, covered in fibreglass. The wing employs a NACA 4400R airfoil. The aircraft was originally constructed with a T-tail, but this was later changed to a conventional low tail. The cockpit accommodation is one seat in a semi-reclining position.

Only one example was completed and registered in the Experimental - Amateur-built category.

## Operational history

As of May 2011 the FM-1 was still on the Federal Aviation Administration registry.

## Specifications (FM-1)

Data from Sailplane Directory and Soaring

General characteristics

* Crew: one
* Wingspan: 51 ft 0 in (15.54 m)
* Wing area: 125 sq ft (11.6 $m^2)$
* Aspect ratio: 21:1
* Airfoil: NACA 4400R
* Empty weight: 500 lb (227 kg)
* Gross weight: 750 lb (340 kg)

Performance

* Maximum glide ratio: Estimated 35:1 at 60 mph (97 km/h)
* Rate of sink: 108 ft/min (0.55 m/s) at 40 mph (64 km/h)
* Wing loading: 6.0 lb/sq ft (29 $kg/m^2)$
