LCA-001 (Light Civilian Aircraft) Jackdaw prototype
The LCA-001, was the first aircraft manufactured by High Ravens Company. The two prototypes were constructed by the company's founders and were never painted, which gave them a distinct shiny appearance. One of the founders, who personally flew the initial prototype, noted that the aircraft had a tendency to roll and pitch down, this was resolved on future models but was still a reoccurring issue among the jackdaw family of aircraft.
The main differences between the prototypes and the production models included the engine type and cowling design. The prototypes were equipped with a large 14-cylinder, 28.1L radial engine and a cowling, resulting in a more cylindrical and tin-can-like appearance. In contrast, the production models lacked a cowling and were fitted with an inline 4 engine, which offered similar performance but with greater efficiency and reduced fuel consumption, better handling was also noted by the founders as the planes were less nose heavy.
Initially, the two prototypes were named "The Silver Slug" and "When Cans Fly." Their official document names were later changed to align with the Jackdaw series of aircraft, though the prototypes retained their original names on the engine cowlings. The aircraft were placed into storage in 1951 and would make rare public appearances from then on, making occasional appearances at air shows and in advertisements.
Specifications:
Length: 6.08 m
Height: 2.44 m
Wingspan: 7.32 m
Total Weight: 1.42 tons
Dry Weight: 1.22 tons
Occupants: 1
Wing Loading (Max): 105.44 kg/m²
Wing Loading (Min): 123.25 kg/m²
Engine: 14-cylinder, 28.1L radial
Top Recorded Speed: 196 mph