Independence Raptor

The Independence Raptor is a German single-place, paraglider that was designed by Michaël Nesler and produced by Independence Paragliding of Eisenberg, Thuringia. It is now out of production.[1]

Raptor
Role Paraglider
National origin Germany
Manufacturer Independence Paragliding
Designer Michaël Nesler
Status Production completed
Produced early 2000s
Unit cost
€1,500 (2004)

The aircraft is not related to the Skif Raptor.[1]

Design and development

The Raptor was designed as a competition glider, with an unusually low price as a method of assisting completion pilots. The models are each named for their relative size.[1]

Company test pilot Christian Amon was also involved in the development as well as flight testing of the Raptor.[1]

Variants
Raptor S
Small-sized model for lighter pilots. Its 12.7 m (41.7 ft) span wing has a wing area of 25.0 m2 (269 sq ft), 75 cells and the aspect ratio is 6.34:1. The pilot weight range is 70 to 95 kg (154 to 209 lb).[1]
Raptor M
Mid-sized model for medium-weight pilots. Its 13.49 m (44.3 ft) span wing has a wing area of 28.3 m2 (305 sq ft), 75 cells and the aspect ratio is 6.34:1. The pilot weight range is 80 to 105 kg (176 to 231 lb).[1]
Raptor L
Large-sized model for heavier pilots. Its 13.8 m (45.3 ft) span wing has a wing area of 30.0 m2 (323 sq ft), 75 cells and the aspect ratio is 6.34:1. The pilot weight range is 100 to 125 kg (220 to 276 lb).[1]

Specifications (Raptor L)

Data from Bertrand[1]

General characteristics

  • Crew: one
  • Wingspan: 13.8 m (45 ft 3 in)
  • Wing area: 30.0 m2 (323 sq ft)
  • Aspect ratio: 6.34:1

References
  1. Bertrand, Noel; Rene Coulon; et al: World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2003-04, pages 20 and 30. Pagefast Ltd, Lancaster OK, 2003. ISSN 1368-485X
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