Thatcher CX5 Makes First Flight

Pia Bergqvist

Thursday, December 19, 2013 at 10:02 PM ET

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** Thatcher CX5**

Key Takeaways:

The new two-tandem-seat experimental airplane, the Thatcher CX5, successfully completed its maiden flight with highly positive initial feedback on its handling and engine operation.
Designed as an affordable homebuilt, the CX5 is estimated to cost less than $25,000 (including engine and basic instruments) and can be constructed using basic tools.
Initial flight data indicates a useful load of 589 pounds and an estimated cruise speed of 108 knots. Plans for the CX5 are expected to be available for sale by April, coinciding with its display at the Sun 'n Fun show.

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A new experimental airplane, the two-tandem-seat Thatcher CX5, has taken its maiden flight. Glen Bradley, who helped build and design the airplane together with the main designer, Dave Thatcher, was at the controls when the CX5 took off from the Jack Edwards Airport near Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Bradley used one word to describe the visibility, the handling of the airplane and the operation of the engine — “Great!” He added after the flight, “All of us know that Dave hit a homerun with the CX4, and I told him today he has now hit two clean out of the park.”