Firebird Choice Zip Bi

Choice Zip Bi
Role Paraglider
National origin Germany
Manufacturer Firebird Sky Sports AG
Introduction mid-2000s
Status Production completed

The Firebird Choice Zip Bi is a German two-place, paraglider that was designed and produced by Firebird Sky Sports AG of Füssen. It is now out of production.[1]

Design and development

The Choice Zip Bi was designed as a tandem glider for flight training and as such the Bi designation indicates "bi-place" or two seater.[1]

The "Zip" name indicates that a zipper is included in the wing to reduce wing area when required.[1]

The aircraft's 14.2 m (46.6 ft) span wing has 54 cells, a wing area of 54 m2 (580 sq ft) and an aspect ratio of 4.95:1. The pilot weight range is 110 to 180 kg (243 to 397 lb). The glider is DHV 1-2 Biplace certified.[1]

Specifications (Choice Zip Bi)

Data from Bertrand[1]

General characteristics

  • Crew: one
  • Capacity: one passenger
  • Wingspan: 14.2 m (46 ft 7 in)
  • Wing area: 54 m2 (580 sq ft)
  • Aspect ratio: 4.95:1
  • Maximum speed: 44 km/h (27 mph, 24 kn)
  • Rate of sink: 1.2 m/s (240 ft/min)

References

  1. ^ a b c d e Bertrand, Noel; Rene Coulon; et al: World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2003-04, page 16. Pagefast Ltd, Lancaster OK, 2003. ISSN 1368-485X