Europe Sails Independent

Independent
Role	Hang glider
National origin	Austria
Manufacturer	Europe Sails
Introduction	2003
Status	In production
Produced	2003-present
Unit cost	€5168 (2003, Independent 14 model)

The Europe Sails Independent is an Austrian high-wing, single-place, hang glider, designed and produced by Europe Sails.^[1]

Design and development

The Independent was introduced in 2003 as a "topless" competition design, lacking a kingpost and top rigging. It is available in two sizes.^[1]

The aircraft is made from a combination of 7075 aluminum tubing and carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer, with the wing covered in 170g Dacron sailcloth. The wing nose angle is 132°. The wing features carbon fibre tips to smooth airflow and improve handling. The model number indicates the approximate wing area in square meters.^[1][2]

Variants

Independent 13

Small sized model with a wing area of 13 m² (140 sq ft) and a wing span of 10 m (32.8 ft). The pilot hook-in weight range is 56 to 90 kg (123.5 to 198.4 lb). This model sold for €5084 in 2003.^[1]

Independent 14

Large sized model with a wing area of 14.3 m² (154 sq ft) and a wing span of 10.35 m (34.0 ft). The pilot hook-in weight range is 75 to 110 kg (165.3 to 242.5 lb). This model sold for €5168 in 2003.^[1]

Specifications (Independent 14)

Data from Bertrand and Europe Sails^[1][2]

General characteristics

• Crew: one
• Wingspan: 10.35 m (33 ft 11 in)
• Wing area: 14.3 m² (154 sq ft)
• Aspect ratio: 7.4:1
• Empty weight: 33.5 kg (74 lb)
• Gross weight: 143.5 kg (316 lb)

References

1. Bertrand, Noel; Rene Coulon; et al: World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2003-04, page 43. Pagefast Ltd, Lancaster OK, 2003. ISSN 1368-485X
2. Europe Sails (n.d.). "Independent". Retrieved 15 February 2012.