This site is for those interested in the Chilton Monoplane - an aircraft designed over sixty years ago but still an outstanding example of British design expertise. The Chilton is truly a design classic, designed by two very bright young aeronautical engineers - Reggie Ward & Andrew Dalrymple, though no doubt their De Havilland training had a lot to do with it, one can only ponder at what might have developed post-war had it not been for the tragic death of Andrew Dalrymple in 1945.
The Chilton Monoplane sets entirely new standards among ultra-light aircraft as regards safety, practical performance and economy. The engine is well known for its complete reliability and the Chilton is of orthodox construction and design embodying the latest aeronautical practice. Its strength is far in excess of all normal requirements and, needless to say, only the best materials and workmanship are used.
The cruising speed of 100 m.p.h. is vastly superior to that of any other machine of this type, and allows really practical cross country flying, even against strong head winds. The landing speed is only 35 m.p.h. This remarkable speed range is achieved largely by the use of split trailing edge flaps, which reduce the landing speed, and also confer the advantages of a flat or steep gliding angle at will. The ease of handling, both in the air and on the ground, is quite exceptional for this or any other type of aircraft. The controls are light and powerful but not unduly sensitive. All these points and the excellent view obtained from the cockpit inspire the pilot with a quite astonishing degree of confidence right from the start.
As regards economy, the Chilton is no less outstanding, combining as it does a performance hitherto only associated with engines of a far greater power, with a low first cost and the running expenses of a motorcycle. The actual running costs amount to far less than a half penny a mile at 100 miles per hour.