WITTMAN TAILWIND W 10

Wittman Tailwind W10: The High-Speed Homebuilt Pioneer

The Wittman Tailwind W10 is the brainchild of Sylvester “Steve” Wittman, one of the most successful air racers in history. Designed to squeeze every ounce of speed out of an engine, the Tailwind proves that a boxy fuselage can still be incredibly aerodynamic. It was the first homebuilt aircraft in the U.S. approved to carry a passenger, setting the standard for high-performance amateur aviation.

Why Is It a Legend?

• Smart Hybrid Construction: It combines the best of two worlds to create a rigid structure. The fuselage is built from welded 4130 steel tubing covered in fabric for crash protection, while the wings are constructed from wood and plywood, offering exceptional smoothness and stiffness for high-speed flight.

• Speed Per Horsepower: This is its claim to fame. The Tailwind can outrun almost any factory-built aircraft (like a Cessna or Piper) using the same engine. It is a “200 mph on a budget” machine.

• The “Wittman Gear”: It introduced the now-famous tapered steel rod landing gear. This design is so simple, durable, and aerodynamic that it was later adopted by Van’s Aircraft (RV series) and many others.

• W10 Refinement: Unlike the earlier W8 (which had square wingtips), the W10 features tapered wingtips. This modification improves aerodynamic efficiency and stability, making it a superior cross-country cruiser.

Performance and Key Numbers
The Tailwind W10 is a serious traveling machine. It is known for being sensitive and responsive—a true “pilot’s airplane” that goes fast and lands somewhat hot compared to slower trainers.

General Specifications:

• Crew: 1 pilot + 1 passenger (side-by-side)

• Wingspan: 24 ft (7.3 m)

• Length: 19 ft 3 in (5.9 m)

• Wing Area: 90 sq ft (8.4 m²)

• Empty Weight: 750 – 850 lbs (340 – 385 kg)

• Max Takeoff Weight: 1,450 lbs (658 kg)

• Useful Load: Approx. 600 lbs (272 kg)

• Typical Engine Power: 100 – 160 hp (Lycoming O-235 to O-320)

Performance:

• Glide Ratio: Approx. 10:1

• Cruise Speed: 160 – 180 mph (257 – 290 km/h) depending on engine

• Top Speed: 200+ mph (320+ km/h) with larger engines

• Stall Speed: 55 – 60 mph (88 – 97 km/h)

• Rate of Climb: 900 – 1,500 ft/min (4.5 – 7.6 m/s)

• Takeoff Distance: 600 – 800 ft (183 – 244 m)

• Fuel Consumption: 7 – 9 gallons per hour (26 – 34 L/h)

• Range: Approx. 600 – 700 miles (965 – 1,120 km)

In short, the Wittman Tailwind W10 is the perfect choice if you prioritize speed above all else, want to get to your destination fast, and appreciate a machine with racing DNA built from steel and wood in your own garage.