Introduction: How to Make the SkyOwl Paper Airplane

About: Paper airplane maker: 400+ designs so far and more in development!
Fast, long range and simple the SkyOwl paper airplane is a modification of the popular Super Owl with structural improvements. Due to strengthened spars, the SkyOwl is slightly faster and can turn tighter than the older Super Owl. Because of this, it can function as a backyard buccaneer or classroom cruiser easily. The SkyOwl is a simple, stable, rugged design that can handle a great deal of abuse, making it an excellent trainer aircraft too.

The simplicity and sturdiness inherent in this design enable easy construction, modification and operation indoors, such as by students in classrooms. Educators could easily use this versatile paper airplane to demonstrate:
  • Glide ratio
  • Hangtime versus other aircraft
  • Weight and balance
  • Flight dynamics

TAA USAF Designation: A73-3

Step 1: Materials

Required:
1 Piece of 8.5 by 11 inch Paper
Tape
Pencil
Scissors
Ruler

Step 2: Length and Corner Folding

Take your paper and fold it along its length. Then pull the corners in and fold them into the center.

Step 3: Nose Folding

Pull the tip of the nose down to the trailing edges of the corner folds. Flip the paper over and pull the blunt tip of the nose inwards. Once you've made the creases, fold the paper forward to be tucked under the airfoils. Flip the paper back over and tuck the folded nose forward under itself. Then flip the paper again and pull the corner folds inward.

Step 4: Wing and Winglet Folding

Measure and make a mark 1 inch above the center crease along the trailing edge. Fold the wing root stretches between this mark and the top of the tip of the nose. When both wings are folded down, measure 2.25 inches forward from the trailing edge along the wingtip and make a mark. From the mark, measure 0.625 inches inward and draw a line. Then cut along this line.

Step 5: Winglet Folding and Taping

Fold the forward winglets upwards, parallel to the fuselage. Fold the rear winglets downwards, also parallel to the fuselage. Once these folds are completed, apply tape to the nose, rear wing root and rear of the fuselage. This will compete your SkyOwl.

Step 6: Flight

With a redundant layout and a large wing, the SkyOwl is an easy to fly airplane. For the longest range flights possible, launch at moderate to high speeds at a neutral attitude. Due to its numerous winglets, the SkyOwl can fly to a target very accurately. Additional applicable surfaces include slats, spoilers, spoilerons, rudders, air brakes and an electronic warfare tail. Enjoy!