Stelio Frati, F.8 Falco Designer, Dies at 91

Italian aircraft designer Stelio Frati, perhaps best known for the all-wood F.8 Falco homebuilt, died last week at the age of 91. Among his other credits are the all-metal SIAI-Marchetti SF260, extensively used as a military trainer, but also well known as a speedy sportplane with full aerobatic capability. Frati graduated from the University of Milan in 1943 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

Mark Phelps is a senior editor at AVweb. He is an instrument rated private pilot and former owner of a Grumman American AA1B and a V-tail Bonanza.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get the latest FLYING stories delivered directly to your inbox

Subscribe to our newsletter
By entering your email, you agree to receive communications from FlyingMag.