Fairchild M-224-1/VZ-5 Fledgling
The Fairchild M-224-1 Fledgling was powered by a 1,024 shp General Electric YT58-GE-2 turboshaft engine turning four three-bladed Harzell metal propellers. The open cockpit had room for the pilot as well as a jump seat. The aircraft could either sit on its forward tricycle landing gear or rest on its two main wheels and a tail skid, providing the Fledgling with 30° of inherent rotation to enhance the "bucket's" effectiveness. Small rotors at the top of the T-tail controlled pitch during hover.
Tethered tests were made in late 1959, but it never flew.
Source: AHS V/STOL Wheel
Overview
Data on design, manufacture and statusDesign authority: Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation
Primary manufacturer: Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation
Parent type: No type defined
Aircraft status: No longer flying
Configuration
Primary flight and mechanical characteristicsVTOL type: Other Powered Lift
Compound type: N/A
Lift devices: 4 in Deflected slipstream configuration
Dedicated control device: 2 Other
Crew required: 1 in Tandem arrangement
Landing gear: Wheels (all retractable)
