"Snowbird" Ornithopter Takes Flight

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Human Powered Flight

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sourced by Caoimhin1

University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies students build what could be the worlds first sustained flight in human powered, wing-flapping aircraft.

The craft, dubbed the "Snowbird" flew a recorded 145m (476 feet) at the Great Lakes Gliding Club in Tottenham, Ontario.

The Federation Aeronautique Internationale is expected to confirm the record at its meeting in October.

Mr Reichert, a PhD student at the University of Toronto, who piloted the craft for it's record flight said the Snowbird "represents the completion of an age-old aeronautical dream". "Throughout history, countless men and women have dreamt of flying like a bird under their own power, and hundreds, if not thousands have attempted to achieve it," he said in a statement. Todd Reichert flew the craft by using a foot pump to flap its wings after a tow car gave it the initial lift as used by glider pilots.

Reichert said," The "Snowbird " is not a practical method of transport. Rather, the aim of the project was to inspire others "to use the strength of their body and the creativity of their mind".

A video courtesy of the University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies can be viewed on the BBC News site. I have provided a link for anyone who wants to see this fantastic exercise in human powered flight.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-11410410