Hamilton W8 Tailwind

Wilco Aviation is pleased to exclusively offer this 1963 Wittman W8 Tailwind, registration G-BDBD. Currently based at a private airstrip in the South West of England, viewings can be arranged by prior appointment. G-BDBD has recently emerged from an extensive 12-year, complete rebuild, during which virtually every aspect of the aircraft was rebuilt, renewed or refurbished. The result is an exceptionally well-presented example of this distinctive and highly capable design. Powered by the proven Continental O-200 100 hp engine, G-BDBD combines strong performance with straightforward maintenance and economical operating costs. The aircraft is fitted with a comprehensive modern instrument and avionics installation, providing a well-equipped and practical cockpit for local flying, touring and longer-distance operation. Despite its compact dimensions, the Wittman Tailwind offers remarkable performance. G-BDBD is capable of almost reaching its VNE of 156 knots in level flight, while still providing economical cruise options. At approximately 130 knots, fuel consumption is around 24 litres per hour, reducing to approximately 15 litres per hour at a more relaxed cruise speed of 100 knots. The aircraft's average rate of climb to 5,000 feet is approximately 800 feet per minute at 100 knots. The clean stall speed is approximately 52 knots, reducing to around 41 knots with full flap. G-BDBD has a useful payload of approximately 560 lb and a fuel capacity of 95 litres, making it a practical and efficient two-seat touring aircraft. The cockpit has also been modified to improve comfort for taller occupants. The current owner, at 6 ft 1 in and approximately 200 lb, reports being comfortable in the aircraft. The aircraft is currently operated from a 500-metre grass airstrip. Landing performance is excellent; however, at heavier operating weights and in nil-wind conditions, the current coarse-pitch Evra propeller means that 500 metres may be insufficient for take-off. As with any aircraft, take-off performance must be carefully assessed against weight, surface, wind, temperature and airfield conditions. The Wittman Tailwind is a popular two-seat light aircraft designed specifically for amateur construction. It is a high-wing, braced cabin monoplane featuring a conventional tailwheel undercarriage. Its construction combines a strong steel-tube fuselage with wooden wings and fabric covering, resulting in a lightweight and efficient aircraft capable of impressive cruising speeds while remaining economical to own, operate and maintain. The Tailwind was the third in a series of high-wing aircraft designed by Sylvester J. "Steve" Wittman (1904–1995), the celebrated American air-racing pilot and aircraft designer. Wittman played a significant role in the development of the homebuilt aircraft movement in the United States through the Tailwind and his other innovative designs. His earlier aircraft included the two-seat Wittman Buttercup and the four-seat Wittman Big X. The latter was purchased by Cessna, which took particular interest in its spring-steel landing gear design. The Tailwind also influenced the final aircraft in Wittman's high-wing series, the O and O Special. A model of the 1965 Wittman Tailwind remains on display at the Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Museum. Wittman initially developed the Continental C-85-powered "Flying Carpet" in 1953, later renaming the design the "Tailwind". In the same year, it became the first aircraft certificated under the FAA Experimental category to carry a passenger. Although its appearance may seem relatively simple by modern standards, the Tailwind outperformed many factory-built aircraft of its era. Its outstanding combination of speed, power and range efficiency remained difficult to match until the introduction of more advanced composite aircraft designs. In January 1996, Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co. of Corona, California, acquired the rights to the Tailwind and became the exclusive distributor of its plans and construction materials. With its recently completed 12-year rebuild, Continental O-200 engine, comprehensive modern instrument installation and exceptional performance, G-BDBD represents a rare opportunity to acquire an engaging, efficient and extremely capable example of the Wittman W8 Tailwind.