Ligeti Stratos Aircraft - World's First Open Source Microlight Ultralight Aircraft

Project - Current Status This page is intended to list the current status of each of the five objectives of the project. For more information and the historical events, please see the Blog section. The project is currently in the early stages. If you’re interested in helping, there’s plenty to do, and most positions are open. Please use the contact form to volunteer. More...

The Concept This site was established to support the development of the worlds first Open Source manned aircraft. Through the generosity of the family of the late Charles Ligeti, and the active contribution of his son Ron, an accomplished aeronautical engineer, the Ligeti Stratos has been made available as what is hoped to be the first of a complete line of Open Source aircraft. More...

Project - Objectives The second generation Ligeti Stratos Project has five objectives, the first of which is to create a complete set of aircraft construction plans and a “51%” parts kit. Distribute the plans at no charge. Make materials and kits available through 3rd party commercial suppliers. Create and cultivate a community of technically-proficient participants and supporters. More...

History The all-composite, joined-wing, ducted fan Ligeti Stratos was originally conceived in 1982 by Charles Ligeti, of Australia. The joined-wing layout was first demonstrated in a hang-glider which was entered in the "Bird Man Rally". In 1983, a variety of free flight models and a radio-controlled quarter scale model were built. The project was moved to a hangar at Essendon Airport, Victoria, and Charles hired several people to help produce the aircraft. The first full-sized Stratos prototype was built between 1984 and 1985. Charles Ligeti made a 45 minute first flight on 25 April, 1985. He reported that the aircraft had exceeded his performance expectations. More...