How to Make the Super SkyManx Paper Airplane

Fast, long range and very agile, the Super SkyManx is an improved version of the SkyManx with superior handling. The Super SkyManx differs from its predecessor because it is equipped with leading edge root extensions (LERX), which enable it to fly faster and at higher angles of attack with better stability and glide performance.

I began experimenting with LERX after publishing the F/A-18 replica, and noticing that it lacked LERX, which are noticeable features on Hornets. I designed a modified version of the replica, and then began looking at ways of adding LERX to other aircraft. On every aircraft to which they were applied, they improved performance.

The Super SkyManx is a great choice for use as a fighter-interceptor, stunt and/or research testbed airplane.

Some usages for educators could include studies of:

• Glide ratio
• Hangtime versus other aircraft
• Weight and balance

TAA USAF Designation: D228-2

Step 1: Materials

Required:
1 Piece of 8 by 10.5 inch graph paper
Tape
Scissors
Ruler
Pencil

Step 2: Begin Construction

First, begin by folding your your graph paper in half (excluding three boxes on the perforated side). Once the paper has been folded appropriately, make two marks--13 full boxes apart. Use a ruler to make a straight line with the length of 13 boxes directly up 1 row of boxes from the two marks you just made. Then make the rudder and counterweight as shown. Follow the photograph markings. Then, mark out the wing spars and landing gear. 1.5 boxes back from the beginning of this line, make a dotted line vertically. 1 box in from the back, measure 2 boxes forward and make a solid line 2 boxes long. Once all is marked out, cut out the fuselage.

After the fuselage is made, take another sheet of paper that is folded in half along the lines of boxes. Mark out the wing as shown (2 boxes in length by 4 boxes in width, and a swept portion in front of this box of 1 box eliminated every 4 boxes away from the fuselage). Half of a box in from the wingtip, make a dotted line parallel to the wingtip. Measure 2 boxes along the crease, measure two boxes upwards from one side and the one box forward. Then draw a diagonal line connecting this line the other edge of the line along the crease. Then cut it out.

Solid lines indicate places to cut. Dotted lines indicate fold lines.

Note: 1 box = 0.25 inches

Step 3: Making the Fuselage

Begin making your airframe's fuselage by cutting it out and folding the counterweight in. Next, fold down the spars; cut one of the vertical stabilizers off and fold the landing gear. Once this is done, fold the vertical stabilizer forward along dotted vertical line and cut along the solid horizontal line. Then unfold. Once this is complete, tape where designated.

Step 4: Applying the Horizontal Stabilizers and Wings

Cut out your horizontal stabilizers and thread them through the fuselage beneath the rudder. Fold them up once through and tape them to the fuselage. Cut out and unfold your wing and flip your airframe inverted. Tape the wing to the fuselage by applying tape to the spars, with the overhang grabbing the wing. Cut off any excess tape. Flip the airframe over and then apply tape to the leading edge of the wing that sits atop the leading edge root extensions. This application will complete the aircraft.

Step 5: Flight

The Super SkyManx is slightly faster and more stable than its predecessor, but those with experience flying the SkyManx should find transition to the Super SkyManx easy. A launch at moderate to high speed at a neutral or negative attitude will give the aircraft its best possible speed and range performance. Launches can be done at a positive attitude, but the launch speed should be faster (range may be reduced). Instability can be cured through proper trimming, and so after only a few test flights the SkyManx should be able to fly straight very easily. Additional applicable surfaces include slats, flaps, flaperons, elevators, ailerons, spoilers, air brakes and a trimmable rudder. Enjoy!