Deltatrikes

Deltatrikes are a type of aircraft that combine features of a delta-wing aircraft and a trike ultralight. They are characterized by a triangular wing, often made of fabric stretched over a frame, and a three-wheeled chassis that houses the pilot and engine. The pilot typically sits in an open cockpit suspended beneath the wing.

The delta wing design provides inherent stability and allows for slow flight and short takeoffs and landings. This makes deltatrikes suitable for recreational flying, aerial sightseeing, and sometimes for agricultural or surveillance purposes. The trike configuration offers ease of ground handling and a stable platform. Propulsion is usually provided by a propeller driven by a small internal combustion engine, mounted at the rear of the chassis.

Control of a deltatrike is achieved through a combination of weight-shifting and aerodynamic control surfaces. The pilot shifts their weight to change the aircraft's pitch and roll. Some deltatrikes may also incorporate rudder and elevator controls for finer adjustments. Due to their simple construction and operation, deltatrikes are often considered relatively easy to learn to fly, though proper training is still essential for safe operation. They fall under the category of ultralight aircraft in many jurisdictions, meaning they have restrictions on maximum weight and speed.