How to Make the ThunderSpectre Paper Airplane

Fast, long range and simple, the ThunderSpectre is a paper airplane designed as a simpler development of the rather complex Strike Spectre. By strengthening the wings and repositioning weight, performance has been improved dramatically. In addition, the winglets double as landing skids to improve ground handling. Its quick speed and long range enable the ThunderSpectre to serve well as a backyard buccaneer and a classroom cruiser.

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: A2-14

Step 1: Materials

Required:
1 Piece of 8.5 by 11 inch Paper
Tape
Ruler
Pencil
Optional:
Scissors (additional surfaces only)

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. Measure 1 inch in from the trailing edge along the center crease and make a mark. Pull the tip of the nose to this and make a crease.

Step 3: Corner, Airfoil and Security Folding

Pull the corners inward and crease them. Once you have done this, unfold them and fold the leading edges down into the creases of the corner folds. Once the structure has been folded into itself, fold along the original corner fold creases again. Then pull the triangular security fold forward to secure the airfoils.

Step 4: Wing and Winglet Folding

Fold the aircraft in half along its center crease. Then measure 0.75 inches up from the center crease, and 0.75 inches down from the wingtip (each along the trailing edge). Fold at these marks by aligning the trailing edges with those of the wings.

Step 5: Taping

Tape your ThunderSpectre at its front back and over top its wing root near the rear. Once this is finished, it will complete your ThunderSpectre.

Step 6: Flight

The ThunderSpectre is a simple, easy to fly aircraft. For flights of the best possible range, launches should be at a moderate speed at a neutral or negative attitude. Additional applicable surfaces include slats, flaps, flaperons, elevators, ailerons, elevons, rudders, and air brakes. Enjoy!