BACKGROUND NOTES

Burnelli principles

The concept of the "lifting fuselage" or "lifting body" was pioneered by a Texan, Vincent J. Burnelli, who began designing and building aircraft as a teenager. His first was built in 1921, and his last in 1946.

All were based on his concept of turning the aircraft's fuselage from dead weight to be lifted by the wings, to an aerofoil contributing its own lift.

His designs suggested that a fuselage incorporated into an aerofoil continuous with the main wing, or nearly so, is less expensive to build, structurally stronger, allows greater carrying space, and is safer overall. More efficient lift produced lower wing loadings, and therefore lower takeoff and landing speeds, in turn increasing safety.

The lifting-fuselage structure formed a protective cage around passengers and cargo, offering greater protection in the event of a crash. The potential for weight savings in the main structure opened up options to dedicate more weight to safety, such as seat and locker anchorage.

A number of Burnelli designs were actually built, and manufacturers such as Canadian Car & Foundry explored Burnelli's concepts.


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