American engineer Con D. Ellingston, in collaboration with pilot Earl E. Hansen, developed and built the Ellingston Special racing aircraft in Great Falls, Montana. This unique machine was a single-seat, cantilever mid-wing monoplane, specifically designed for air races.
Innovative Design Features
The aircraft was powered by a 90 hp LeBlond 7D radial engine, driving a two-bladed propeller. Its most notable feature was its telescopic wings, known as Barkhoff Retractable Wings, which allowed for a variable span from a maximum of 9.75 meters (32 feet) down to a minimum of 7.62 meters (25 feet).
This adjustable wing design significantly influenced its performance. At maximum span, the Ellingston Special could reach speeds of 274 km/h (170 mph). When the wings were retracted to their minimum span, its speed was 177 km/h (110 mph), showcasing its adaptability.
Maiden Flight and Legacy
The sole example of the aircraft, registered as NX19955, took to the skies for the first time on April 23, 1938, piloted by Earl Hansen. Despite successfully passing its flight tests and proving its innovative capabilities, the Ellingston Special faced an unfortunate turn of events as all major aviation competitions in the United States were canceled around that time.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Ellingston Special |
| Wingspan, m | 9.75 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine LeBlond 7D |
| Power, hp | 1 x 90 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 274 |
| Crew, crew members | 1 |
Image and diagram gallery of the Ellingston Special
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