Schweizer SGS 2-8: Difference between revisions
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{|{{Infobox |
{|{{Infobox aircraft begin |
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| name=SGS 2-8 |
| name= SGS 2-8 |
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| image=File:Marine Corps gliders - Parris Island.jpg |
| image= File:Marine Corps gliders - Parris Island.jpg |
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| caption=US Marine Corps LNS-1s in 1942 |
| caption= US Marine Corps LNS-1s in 1942 |
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}}{{Infobox |
}}{{Infobox aircraft type |
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| type=[[FAI Open Class|Open-class]] sailplane |
| type=[[FAI Open Class|Open-class]] sailplane |
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| national origin=United States |
| national origin= United States |
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| manufacturer=[[Schweizer Aircraft Corporation]] |
| manufacturer= [[Schweizer Aircraft Corporation]] |
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| designer=[[Schweizer brothers|Ernest and Paul A Schweizer]] |
| designer=[[Schweizer brothers|Ernest and Paul A Schweizer]] |
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| first flight=June 1938<ref name="SchweizerPg63">Schweizer, Paul A: ''Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States'', pages 62-63. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. ISBN |
| first flight=June 1938<ref name="SchweizerPg63">Schweizer, Paul A: ''Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States'', pages 62-63. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. {{ISBN|0-87474-828-3}}</ref> |
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| introduced= |
| introduced= |
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| retired= |
| retired= |
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| status= |
| status= |
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| primary user= |
| primary user= |
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| number built=57 |
| number built= 57 |
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| developed from= |
| developed from= |
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| variants with their own articles= |
| variants with their own articles= |
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The '''Schweizer SGS 2-8''' is |
The '''Schweizer SGS 2-8''' is an American two-seat, mid-wing, strut-braced, training [[Glider (sailplane)|glider]] built by [[Schweizer Aircraft]] of [[Elmira, New York]].<ref name="SoaringNov83">Said, Bob: ''1983 Sailplane Directory, Soaring Magazine'', pages 26. Soaring Society of America, November 1983. USPS 499-920</ref> |
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The 2-8 was originally known simply as "The Schweizer Two-Place" when it first flew in June 1938. When [[World War II]] |
The 2-8 was originally known simply as "The Schweizer Two-Place" when it first flew in June 1938. When [[World War II]] started, the 2-8 became a military trainer for the [[US Army]], [[US Navy|Navy]] and [[US Marines|Marines]] and all existing aircraft were drafted into military service. After the war they were sold as surplus and quickly became sought after in civil soaring for their structural strength, lightness and their rugged all-metal design. The 2-8 became one of the most popular post war trainers in the United States.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia">{{cite web|url = http://www.sailplanedirectory.com/PlaneDetails.cfm?planeID=315|title = SGS 2-8 Schweizer|access-date = 2008-05-10|last = Activate Media|year = 2006|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20020126182644/http://www.sailplanedirectory.com/PlaneDetails.cfm?planeID=315|archive-date = 2002-01-26}}</ref> |
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==Design and development== |
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==Background== |
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During the 1920s and |
During the 1920s and 1930s gliding was often self-taught or taught in single place sailplanes. An instructor would often coach the student using hand signals from the automobile towing the glider into the air. By the mid-1930s the benefits of having a two-place glider for training were beginning to be recognized by glider instructors.<ref name="SchweizerPg63"/><ref name="SoaringNov83"/> |
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A number of two-place designs were demonstrated in the |
A number of two-place designs were demonstrated in the United States, including the Gross Sky Ghost in 1932, the Funk two-place and the Bowlus-duPont two place, both of which first flew in 1933.<ref name="SchweizerPg63"/> |
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In late 1937 the Airhoppers Gliding Club of [[Long Island, New York]] approached the [[Schweizer brothers]] to see about the design of a Schweizer two-place glider specifically for training purposes.<ref name="SchweizerPg63"/> |
In late 1937 the Airhoppers Gliding Club of [[Long Island, New York]] approached the [[Schweizer brothers]] to see about the design of a Schweizer two-place glider specifically for training purposes.<ref name="SchweizerPg63"/> |
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The [[Schweizer Metal Aircraft Company]] built the 2-8 prototype over the winter of 1937-1938. The aircraft was completed and first flew in June 1938, in time to fly in the US National Soaring Championships.<ref name="SchweizerPg63"/> |
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==Development== |
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The [[Schweizer Metal Aircraft Company]] built the 2-8 prototype over the winter of 1937-38. The aircraft was completed and first flew in June 1938, in time to fly in the US National Soaring Championships.<ref name="SchweizerPg63"/> |
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The first dozen 2-8s delivered went to clubs and individuals and were not certified aircraft at that time.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/> One 2-8 was ordered by the [[Soaring Society of America]] for use by their general manager, Henry Wightman, and was flown from the [[Washington DC]] area.<ref name="SchweizerPg69">Schweizer, Paul A: ''Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States'', page 69. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. ISBN |
The first dozen 2-8s delivered went to clubs and individuals and were not certified aircraft at that time.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/> One 2-8 was ordered by the [[Soaring Society of America]] for use by their general manager, Henry Wightman, and was flown from the [[Washington DC]] area.<ref name="SchweizerPg69">Schweizer, Paul A: ''Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States'', page 69. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. {{ISBN|0-87474-828-3}}</ref> |
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At the time of the sale to SSA, Bob McDowell, the attorney who notarized the bill of sale, indicated to the Schweizers that they should move their manufacturing operation out of their father's barn and relocate to the [[Elmira, |
At the time of the sale to SSA, Bob McDowell, the attorney who notarized the bill of sale, indicated to the Schweizers that they should move their manufacturing operation out of their father's barn and relocate to the [[Elmira, New York]] area. The Schweizers received the suggestion positively as they needed more space to produce gliders, but they had no money with which to make the move. McDowell convinced Elmira Industries Inc, the local business development corporation, to provide space for the Schweizers on the second floor of the Elmira Knitting Mill Building in return for stock in the company. This resulted in the Schweizer Metal Aircraft Company becoming the [[Schweizer Aircraft Corporation]], with a sale of shares to Elmira Industries, local businessmen and soaring pilots.<ref name="SchweizerPg69"/> |
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Orders for 2-8s came in from a group of [[Bell Aircraft]] employees, a youth group, a number of gliding schools, as well as several individuals.<ref name="SchweizerPg69"/> |
Orders for 2-8s came in from a group of [[Bell Aircraft]] employees, a youth group, a number of gliding schools, as well as several individuals.<ref name="SchweizerPg69"/> |
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The 2-8 received type certificate GTC 5 on 28 June 1940.<ref name="GTC5"> |
The 2-8 received type certificate GTC 5 on 28 June 1940.<ref name="GTC5">{{cite web|url = http://www.airweb.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library%5CrgMakeModel.nsf/0/8A81063715C183AF862573B8004BD55A?OpenDocument|title = TYPE CERTIFICATE DATA SHEET NO. GTC 5|access-date = 2008-04-15|last = Federal Aviation Administration|author-link = Federal Aviation Administration|date=September 2007}}</ref> |
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The type certificate is currently held by K & L Soaring of [[Cayuta, New York]]. K & L Soaring now provides all parts and support for the Schweizer line of sailplanes.<ref name="GTC5"/><ref name="K&L"> |
The type certificate is currently held by K & L Soaring of [[Cayuta, New York]]. K & L Soaring now provides all parts and support for the Schweizer line of sailplanes.<ref name="GTC5"/><ref name="K&L">{{cite web|url = http://klsoaring.com/|title = K & L Soaring, LLC|access-date = 2008-04-05|last = K & L Soaring|year = n.d.}}</ref> |
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Manufactured aircraft are known as SGS 2-8s while those assembled from factory kits are designated as SGS 2-8A.<ref name="GTC5"/> |
Manufactured aircraft are known as SGS 2-8s while those assembled from factory kits are designated as SGS 2-8A.<ref name="GTC5"/> |
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==Construction== |
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The 2-8 has a welded [[steel]] tube fuselage covered in aircraft fabric. The [[aluminum]] wings feature assembly with self-tapping PK screws and very few rivets.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
The 2-8 has a welded [[steel]] tube fuselage covered in aircraft fabric. The [[aluminum]] wings feature assembly with self-tapping PK screws and very few rivets.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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==Operational history== |
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[[File:LNS-1 glider USMC Parris Is 1942.jpg|thumb|LNS-1 at [[Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island|Parris Island]], 1942.]] |
[[File:LNS-1 glider USMC Parris Is 1942.jpg|thumb|LNS-1 at [[Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island|Parris Island]], 1942.]] |
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[[File:LNS-1 gliders USMC Parris Is towed 1942.jpg|thumb|[[N3N Canary]] trainers were used to |
[[File:LNS-1 gliders USMC Parris Is towed 1942.jpg|thumb|[[N3N Canary]] trainers were used to tow three LNS-1.]] |
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In April 1941 the Schweizers were contacted by the [[US Army Air Force]]. The USAAF, impressed by the [[German Army]]'s use of gliders to capture the Belgian fortress of [[Eben-Emael]] during the campaign of the previous summer, had decided to commence a glider pilot training program. The USAAF was in need of training gliders and the Schweizers offered the SGS 2-8 as the ideal aircraft for the role.<ref name="SchweizerPg78">Schweizer, Paul A: ''Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States'', page 78. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. ISBN 0-87474-828-3</ref> |
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In April 1941 the Schweizers were contacted by the [[US Army Air Force]] (USAAF). The USAAF, impressed by the [[Luftwaffe]]'s use of gliders to capture the Belgian fortress of [[Eben-Emael]] during the campaign of the previous summer, had decided to commence a glider pilot training program. The USAAF was in need of training gliders and the Schweizers offered the SGS 2-8 as the ideal aircraft for the role.<ref name="SchweizerPg78">Schweizer, Paul A: ''Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States'', page 78. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. {{ISBN|0-87474-828-3}}</ref> |
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On August 10, 1941 the AAF issued a statement on the procurement of the 2-8: |
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On 10 August 1941 the AAF issued a statement on the procurement of the 2-8: |
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<blockquote>"What is probably a record in procurement was established in the case of the contract with the Schweizer Aircraft Corporation of Elmira New York. This contract, covering three two-place gliders to CAA Class 2 requirements, with certain modifications, was signed in Washington DC on June 27, 1941. The first glider under contract has its initial flight test July 2, at [[Big Flats Airport]], Elmira, New York and is now at Wright Field." <ref name="SchweizerPg78"/></blockquote> |
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<blockquote>"What is probably a record in procurement was established in the case of the contract with the Schweizer Aircraft Corporation of Elmira New York. This contract, covering three two-place gliders to CAA Class 2 requirements, with certain modifications, was signed in Washington DC on June 27, 1941. The first glider under contract has its initial flight test July 2, at [[Big Flats Airport]], Elmira, New York and is now at Wright Field."<ref name="SchweizerPg78"/></blockquote> |
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In the first part of 1942 Lieutenant General [[William S. Knudsen]] of the War Production Board conducted an inspection of the Schweizer factory, still located on the second floor of the Elmira Knitting Mill. He looked at the antiquated plant and instructed the Schweizers to "get out of here". He was instrumental in the move of the 2-8 production line to a new plant built for Schweizer Aircraft by the Defense Plants Corporation at the soon-to-be completed [[Elmira/Corning Regional Airport|Chemung County Airport]].<ref name="SchweizerPg85">Schweizer, Paul A: ''Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States'', page 85. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. ISBN 0-87474-828-3</ref> |
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In the first part of 1942 Lieutenant General [[William S. Knudsen]] of the War Production Board conducted an inspection of the Schweizer factory, still located on the second floor of the Elmira Knitting Mill. He looked at the antiquated plant and instructed the Schweizers to "get out of here". He was instrumental in the move of the 2-8 production line to a new plant built for Schweizer Aircraft by the Defense Plants Corporation at the soon-to-be completed [[Elmira/Corning Regional Airport|Chemung County Airport]].<ref name="SchweizerPg85">Schweizer, Paul A: ''Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States'', page 85. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. {{ISBN|0-87474-828-3}}</ref> |
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The US Navy and Marine Corps also ordered the 2-8 as a glider trainer.<ref name="ActivateMedia"/><ref name="SoaringNov83"/> |
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The US Navy and Marine Corps also ordered the 2-8 as a glider trainer.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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Because the 2-8 was made from aluminum and steel, which were both declared "strategic materials", a replacement design was needed. The Schweizers designed the [[Schweizer SGS 2-12|SGS 2-12]] as a wooden version of the 2-8, incorporating some improvements, such as a lower-mounted [[cantilever]] wing to improve instructor visibility. The 2-12 succeeded the 2-8 in production and 114 were produced with the designation TG-3A.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/> |
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Because the 2-8 was made from aluminum and steel, which were both declared "[[strategic material]]s", a replacement design was needed. The Schweizers designed the [[Schweizer SGS 2-12|SGS 2-12]] as a wooden version of the 2-8, incorporating some improvements, such as a lower-mounted [[cantilever]] wing to improve instructor visibility. The 2-12 succeeded the 2-8 in production and 114 were produced with the designation TG-3A.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/> |
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===Competitions and records=== |
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[[File:Schweizer_TG-2_NC47575_Moriarty_NM_19.06.97R_AH.jpg|thumb|right|Ex USAAF Schweizer TG-2 (SGS 2-8) competing in a vintage glider event at [[Moriarty, New Mexico]] in 1997]] |
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Distance flying in the 2-8 is challenging, given its 23:1 glide ratio and red-line speed limit of just 72 mph (117 km/h). SGS 2-8s were flown in several US national competitions and held a number of records at one time.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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Records held include a flight to goal from Elmira, New York to Washington, DC, a distance of 373 km (232 statute miles) flown by Bob Stanley and Ernie Schweizer.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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[[Dick Johnson (glider pilot)|Dick Johnson]] set a multi-place distance record of 499 km (310 statute miles) in a 2-8.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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In May 2008 there were still 23 SGS 2-8s registered in the US along with one 2-8A.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/acftinqSQL.asp?striptxt=SGS28&mfrtxt=Schweizer&cmndfind.x=16&cmndfind.y=14&cmndfind=submit&modeltxt=SGS+2-8|title = FAA Registry|access-date = 2008-05-10|last = Federal Aviation Administration|author-link = Federal Aviation Administration|date=May 2008}}</ref> |
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==Variants== |
==Variants== |
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;SGS 2-8 |
;SGS 2-8 |
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:The basic factory produced model was designated as the SGS 2-8.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/> |
:The basic factory produced model was designated as the SGS 2-8.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/> |
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;SGS 2-8A |
;SGS 2-8A |
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:SGS 2-8s assembled from factory kits were accepted as certified aircraft and were designated as SGS 2-8A. They were otherwise identical to the 2-8.<ref name="GTC5"/> |
:SGS 2-8s assembled from factory kits were accepted as certified aircraft and were designated as SGS 2-8A. They were otherwise identical to the 2-8.<ref name="GTC5"/> |
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;TG-2 |
;TG-2 |
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:The production version of the 2-8 for the US Army Air Force was given the military designation of TG-2, indicating "Training Glider 2".<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
:The production version of the 2-8 for the US Army Air Force was given the military designation of TG-2, indicating "Training Glider 2".<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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;TG-2A |
;TG-2A |
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:The designation of TG-2A was applied to previously produced civilian versions of the 2-8 that were conscripted into USAAF use. The military tracked down all 2-8s in the USA and bought them for military training from their civilian owners.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
:The designation of TG-2A was applied to previously produced civilian versions of the 2-8 that were conscripted into USAAF use. The military tracked down all 2-8s in the USA and bought them for military training from their civilian owners.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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;LNS-1 |
;LNS-1 |
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:The production version constructed for the US Navy and US Marines was designated as the LNS-1.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
:The production version constructed for the US Navy and US Marines was designated as the LNS-1.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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==Aircraft on display== |
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[[File:Air Zoo December 2019 074 (Schweizer LNS-1).jpg|thumb|LNS-1 on display at the [[Air Zoo]]]] |
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Distance flying in the 2-8 is challenging, given its 23:1 glide ratio and red-line speed limit of just 72 mph (117 km/h). SGS 2-8s were flown in several US national competitions and held a number of records at one time.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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There is a 2-8, N10VV, in the [[National Soaring Museum]] and three versions of the LNS-1, on loan to the [[National Warplane Museum]], the [[Marine Corps Aviation Museum]] in [[Quantico, Virginia]] and in the [[National Museum of Naval Aviation]] at [[Pensacola, Florida]].<ref name="ActivateMedia"/><ref name="NSM">{{cite web|url = http://www.soaringmuseum.org/collection.html|title = Sailplanes in Our Collection|access-date = 2008-04-15|last = Munson|first = J.|year = n.d.|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110516142717/http://www.soaringmuseum.org/collection.html|archive-date = 2011-05-16}}</ref> |
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Records held include a flight to goal from Elmira, New York to Washington, DC, a distance of 373 km (232 statute miles) flown by Bob Stanley and Ernie Schweizer.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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Dick Johnson set a multi-place distance record of 499 km (310 statute miles) in a 2-8.<ref name="SoaringNov83"/><ref name="ActivateMedia"/> |
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==In service== |
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In May 2008 there were still 23 SGS 2-8s registered in the USA along with one 2-8A.<ref> {{cite web|url = http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/acftinqSQL.asp?striptxt=SGS28&mfrtxt=Schweizer&cmndfind.x=16&cmndfind.y=14&cmndfind=submit&modeltxt=SGS+2-8|title = FAA Registry|accessdate = 2008-05-10|last = [[Federal Aviation Administration]]|authorlink = |year = 2008|month = May}}</ref> |
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==Aircraft on display== |
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There is a 2-8, N10VV, in the [[National Soaring Museum]] and three versions of the LNS-1, on loan to the [[National Warplane Museum]], the [[Marine Corps Aviation Museum]] in [[Quantico, Virginia]] and in the [[National Museum of Naval Aviation]] at [[Pensacola, Florida]].<ref name="ActivateMedia"/><ref name="NSM"> {{cite web|url = http://www.soaringmuseum.org/collection.html|title = Sailplanes in Our Collection|accessdate = 2008-04-15|last = Munson|first = J.|authorlink = |year = undated}}</ref> |
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==Specifications== |
==Specifications== |
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{{Aircraft specs |
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{{aerospecs |
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|ref=Jane's all the World's Aircraft 1947<ref name=JAWA1947>{{cite book |title=Jane's all the World's Aircraft 1947 |editor1-last=Bridgman |editor1-first=Leonard |year=1947 |publisher=Sampson Low, Marston & Co |location=London |page=289c}}</ref> |
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|ref= |
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|prime units?=imp |
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|met or eng?=<!-- eng for US/UK aircraft, met for all others. You MUST include one or the other here, or no specifications will show -->eng |
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<!-- |
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|crew=Two |
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General characteristics |
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|capacity= |
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--> |
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|length m= |
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|crew=2 |
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|length ft= |
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|length |
|length m=7.7 |
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|span m= |
|span m=15.86 |
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|height m=2.1 |
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|span in=0 |
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|swept m=<!-- swing-wings --> |
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|swept ft=<!-- swing-wings --> |
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|swept in=<!-- swing-wings --> |
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|rot number=<!-- helicopters --> |
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|rot dia m=<!-- helicopters --> |
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|rot dia ft=<!-- helicopters --> |
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|rot dia in=<!-- helicopters --> |
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|dia m=<!-- airships etc --> |
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|dia ft=<!-- airships etc --> |
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|dia in=<!-- airships etc --> |
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|width m=<!-- if applicable --> |
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|width ft=<!-- if applicable --> |
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|width in=<!-- if applicable --> |
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|height m= |
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|height ft= |
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|height in= |
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|wing area sqm=19.88 |
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|wing area sqft=214 |
|wing area sqft=214 |
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|aspect ratio=12.6 |
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|swept area sqm=<!-- swing-wings --> |
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|airfoil=[[NACA airfoil|NACA 4412]] |
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|swept area sqft=<!-- swing-wings --> |
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|empty weight lb=460 |
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|rot area sqm=<!-- helicopters --> |
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|rot area sqft=<!-- helicopters --> |
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|volume m3=<!-- lighter-than-air --> |
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|volume ft3=<!-- lighter-than-air --> |
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|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->12.6 |
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|wing profile=<!-- sailplanes -->NACA 4412 |
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|empty weight kg=204 |
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|empty weight lb=450 |
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|gross weight kg=390 |
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|gross weight lb=860 |
|gross weight lb=860 |
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|max takeoff weight kg= |
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|lift kg=<!-- lighter-than-air --> |
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|max takeoff weight lb= |
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|lift lb=<!-- lighter-than-air --> |
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|max takeoff weight note= |
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|eng1 number= |
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|more general= |
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<!-- |
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|eng1 kw=<!-- prop engines --> |
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Performance |
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|eng1 hp=<!-- prop engines --> |
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--> |
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|eng1 kn=<!-- jet/rocket engines --> |
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|eng1 lbf=<!-- jet/rocket engines --> |
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|eng1 kn-ab=<!-- afterburners --> |
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|eng1 lbf-ab=<!-- afterburners --> |
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|eng2 number= |
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|eng2 type= |
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|eng2 kw=<!-- prop engines --> |
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|eng2 hp=<!-- prop engines --> |
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|eng2 kn=<!-- jet/rocket engines --> |
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|eng2 lbf=<!-- jet/rocket engines --> |
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|eng2 kn-ab=<!-- afterburners --> |
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|eng2 lbf-ab=<!-- afterburners --> |
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|max speed kmh=115 |
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|max speed mph=72 |
|max speed mph=72 |
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|stall speed mph=30 |
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|max speed mach=<!-- supersonic aircraft --> |
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|stall speed note=dual |
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|cruise speed kmh=<!-- if max speed unknown --> |
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*'''Aerotow max speed:''' {{convert|72|mph|kn km/h|abbr=on}} |
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|cruise speed mph=<!-- if max speed unknown --> |
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*'''Winch launch max speed:''' {{convert|54|mph|kn km/h|abbr=on}} |
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|range km= |
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|never exceed speed mph= |
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|range miles= |
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|g limits=<!-- aerobatic --> |
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|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic --> |
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|glide ratio=24:1 at {{convert|42|mph|kn km/h|abbr=on}} |
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|ceiling m= |
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|sink rate ms= |
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|ceiling ft= |
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|sink rate note= |
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|glide ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->23 at 42 mph (67 km/h) |
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|lift to drag= |
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|wing loading kg/m2= |
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|climb rate ftmin= |
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|wing loading lb/sqft=4.01 |
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|sink rate ms=<!-- sailplanes -->0.84 |
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|wing loading note= |
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|sink rate ftmin=<!-- sailplanes -->165 |
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|more performance= |
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|armament1= |
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|armament2= |
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|armament3= |
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|armament4= |
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|armament5= |
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|armament6= |
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}} |
}} |
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==References== |
==References== |
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{{ |
{{Reflist}} |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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{{commons category|Schweizer SGS 2-8}} |
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*[http://www.retroplane.net/soaring_museum/schweizer_lns_1/accueil.htm Detailed photos of the SGS 2-8 (US Marine LNS-1) in the NSM] |
*[http://www.retroplane.net/soaring_museum/schweizer_lns_1/accueil.htm Detailed photos of the SGS 2-8 (US Marine LNS-1) in the NSM] |
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{{Schweizer aircraft}} |
{{Schweizer aircraft}} |
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{{ |
{{US glider aircraft}} |
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{{USN glider aircraft}} |
{{USN glider aircraft}} |
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{{aviation lists}} |
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[[Category:United States sailplanes |
[[Category:1930s United States sailplanes]] |
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[[Category:Schweizer |
[[Category:Schweizer aircraft]] |
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[[Category:Mid-wing aircraft]] |
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[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1938]] |
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Latest revision as of 08:11, 22 June 2021
| SGS 2-8 | |
|---|---|
| |
| US Marine Corps LNS-1s in 1942 | |
| Role | Open-class sailplane |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Schweizer Aircraft Corporation |
| Designer | Ernest and Paul A Schweizer |
| First flight | June 1938[1] |
| Number built | 57 |
The Schweizer SGS 2-8 is an American two-seat, mid-wing, strut-braced, training glider built by Schweizer Aircraft of Elmira, New York.[2]
The 2-8 was originally known simply as "The Schweizer Two-Place" when it first flew in June 1938. When World War II started, the 2-8 became a military trainer for the US Army, Navy and Marines and all existing aircraft were drafted into military service. After the war they were sold as surplus and quickly became sought after in civil soaring for their structural strength, lightness and their rugged all-metal design. The 2-8 became one of the most popular post war trainers in the United States.[2][3]
Design and development[edit]
During the 1920s and 1930s gliding was often self-taught or taught in single place sailplanes. An instructor would often coach the student using hand signals from the automobile towing the glider into the air. By the mid-1930s the benefits of having a two-place glider for training were beginning to be recognized by glider instructors.[1][2]
A number of two-place designs were demonstrated in the United States, including the Gross Sky Ghost in 1932, the Funk two-place and the Bowlus-duPont two place, both of which first flew in 1933.[1]
In late 1937 the Airhoppers Gliding Club of Long Island, New York approached the Schweizer brothers to see about the design of a Schweizer two-place glider specifically for training purposes.[1]
The Schweizer Metal Aircraft Company built the 2-8 prototype over the winter of 1937-1938. The aircraft was completed and first flew in June 1938, in time to fly in the US National Soaring Championships.[1]
The first dozen 2-8s delivered went to clubs and individuals and were not certified aircraft at that time.[2] One 2-8 was ordered by the Soaring Society of America for use by their general manager, Henry Wightman, and was flown from the Washington DC area.[4]
At the time of the sale to SSA, Bob McDowell, the attorney who notarized the bill of sale, indicated to the Schweizers that they should move their manufacturing operation out of their father's barn and relocate to the Elmira, New York area. The Schweizers received the suggestion positively as they needed more space to produce gliders, but they had no money with which to make the move. McDowell convinced Elmira Industries Inc, the local business development corporation, to provide space for the Schweizers on the second floor of the Elmira Knitting Mill Building in return for stock in the company. This resulted in the Schweizer Metal Aircraft Company becoming the Schweizer Aircraft Corporation, with a sale of shares to Elmira Industries, local businessmen and soaring pilots.[4]
Orders for 2-8s came in from a group of Bell Aircraft employees, a youth group, a number of gliding schools, as well as several individuals.[4]
The 2-8 received type certificate GTC 5 on 28 June 1940.[5]
The type certificate is currently held by K & L Soaring of Cayuta, New York. K & L Soaring now provides all parts and support for the Schweizer line of sailplanes.[5][6]
Manufactured aircraft are known as SGS 2-8s while those assembled from factory kits are designated as SGS 2-8A.[5]
The 2-8 has a welded steel tube fuselage covered in aircraft fabric. The aluminum wings feature assembly with self-tapping PK screws and very few rivets.[2][3]
Operational history[edit]
In April 1941 the Schweizers were contacted by the US Army Air Force (USAAF). The USAAF, impressed by the Luftwaffe's use of gliders to capture the Belgian fortress of Eben-Emael during the campaign of the previous summer, had decided to commence a glider pilot training program. The USAAF was in need of training gliders and the Schweizers offered the SGS 2-8 as the ideal aircraft for the role.[7]
On 10 August 1941 the AAF issued a statement on the procurement of the 2-8:
"What is probably a record in procurement was established in the case of the contract with the Schweizer Aircraft Corporation of Elmira New York. This contract, covering three two-place gliders to CAA Class 2 requirements, with certain modifications, was signed in Washington DC on June 27, 1941. The first glider under contract has its initial flight test July 2, at Big Flats Airport, Elmira, New York and is now at Wright Field."[7]
In the first part of 1942 Lieutenant General William S. Knudsen of the War Production Board conducted an inspection of the Schweizer factory, still located on the second floor of the Elmira Knitting Mill. He looked at the antiquated plant and instructed the Schweizers to "get out of here". He was instrumental in the move of the 2-8 production line to a new plant built for Schweizer Aircraft by the Defense Plants Corporation at the soon-to-be completed Chemung County Airport.[8]
The US Navy and Marine Corps also ordered the 2-8 as a glider trainer.[2][3]
Because the 2-8 was made from aluminum and steel, which were both declared "strategic materials", a replacement design was needed. The Schweizers designed the SGS 2-12 as a wooden version of the 2-8, incorporating some improvements, such as a lower-mounted cantilever wing to improve instructor visibility. The 2-12 succeeded the 2-8 in production and 114 were produced with the designation TG-3A.[2]
Competitions and records[edit]
Distance flying in the 2-8 is challenging, given its 23:1 glide ratio and red-line speed limit of just 72 mph (117 km/h). SGS 2-8s were flown in several US national competitions and held a number of records at one time.[2][3]
Records held include a flight to goal from Elmira, New York to Washington, DC, a distance of 373 km (232 statute miles) flown by Bob Stanley and Ernie Schweizer.[2][3]
Dick Johnson set a multi-place distance record of 499 km (310 statute miles) in a 2-8.[2][3]
In May 2008 there were still 23 SGS 2-8s registered in the US along with one 2-8A.[9]
Variants[edit]
- SGS 2-8
- The basic factory produced model was designated as the SGS 2-8.[2]
- SGS 2-8A
- SGS 2-8s assembled from factory kits were accepted as certified aircraft and were designated as SGS 2-8A. They were otherwise identical to the 2-8.[5]
- TG-2
- The production version of the 2-8 for the US Army Air Force was given the military designation of TG-2, indicating "Training Glider 2".[2][3]
- TG-2A
- The designation of TG-2A was applied to previously produced civilian versions of the 2-8 that were conscripted into USAAF use. The military tracked down all 2-8s in the USA and bought them for military training from their civilian owners.[2][3]
- LNS-1
- The production version constructed for the US Navy and US Marines was designated as the LNS-1.[2][3]
Aircraft on display[edit]
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There is a 2-8, N10VV, in the National Soaring Museum and three versions of the LNS-1, on loan to the National Warplane Museum, the Marine Corps Aviation Museum in Quantico, Virginia and in the National Museum of Naval Aviation at Pensacola, Florida.[3][10]
Specifications[edit]
Data from Jane's all the World's Aircraft 1947[11]
General characteristics
- Crew: 2
- Length: 25 ft 3 in (7.7 m)
- Wingspan: 52 ft 0 in (15.86 m)
- Height: 6 ft 11 in (2.1 m)
- Wing area: 214 sq ft (19.9 m2)
- Aspect ratio: 12.6
- Airfoil: NACA 4412
- Empty weight: 460 lb (209 kg)
- Gross weight: 860 lb (390 kg)
Performance
- Maximum speed: 72 mph (116 km/h, 63 kn)
- Stall speed: 30 mph (48 km/h, 26 kn) dual
- Aerotow max speed: 72 mph (63 kn; 116 km/h)
- Winch launch max speed: 54 mph (47 kn; 87 km/h)
- Maximum glide ratio: 24:1 at 42 mph (36 kn; 68 km/h)
- Wing loading: 4.01 lb/sq ft (19.6 kg/m2)
See also[edit]
Related lists
References[edit]
- ^ a b c d e Schweizer, Paul A: Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States, pages 62-63. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. ISBN 0-87474-828-3
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n Said, Bob: 1983 Sailplane Directory, Soaring Magazine, pages 26. Soaring Society of America, November 1983. USPS 499-920
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j Activate Media (2006). "SGS 2-8 Schweizer". Archived from the original on 2002-01-26. Retrieved 2008-05-10.
- ^ a b c Schweizer, Paul A: Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States, page 69. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. ISBN 0-87474-828-3
- ^ a b c d Federal Aviation Administration (September 2007). "TYPE CERTIFICATE DATA SHEET NO. GTC 5". Retrieved 2008-04-15.
- ^ K & L Soaring (n.d.). "K & L Soaring, LLC". Retrieved 2008-04-05.
- ^ a b Schweizer, Paul A: Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States, page 78. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. ISBN 0-87474-828-3
- ^ Schweizer, Paul A: Wings Like Eagles, The Story of Soaring in the United States, page 85. Smithsonian Institution Press, 1988. ISBN 0-87474-828-3
- ^ Federal Aviation Administration (May 2008). "FAA Registry". Retrieved 2008-05-10.
- ^ Munson, J. (n.d.). "Sailplanes in Our Collection". Archived from the original on 2011-05-16. Retrieved 2008-04-15.
- ^ Bridgman, Leonard, ed. (1947). Jane's all the World's Aircraft 1947. London: Sampson Low, Marston & Co. p. 289c.
External links[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Schweizer SGS 2-8.