Traplet Publications HW-4 Flamingo (5m / 196.85″) – PETG Canopy

HW-4 Flamingo 5 m (196.85″) Wingspan – MW3463 – World Class Designer Chris Williams turns to a Brazilian sailplane dating from 1947. The HW-4 Flamingo was a one-off sailplane built in Brazil in 1947 and described in Martin Simons’ book ‘Sailplanes 1945-1965’ as ‘elegant’, having a relatively high aspect ratio wing, coupled with a classic gull break. Chris Williams has been campaigning this larger 1/3.5 scale version for some years now, but after the success of the 1/5th scale Petrel (full short kit also available from Sarik Hobbies RC2207), a smaller 3.4m version is also available.

Just like the Petrel the fuselage is relatively heavy, being plywood-clad, whilst the wings are super-light. It’s this combination that allows these models to fly in just about any condition, regardless of wind speed.