The Chance Vought V-173 “Flying Pancake” is a one-of-kind aircraft that dates back to WWII. Designer Charles H. Zimmerman theorized that aircraft could fly at very slow speeds with an extremely low-aspect ratio wing design. Zimmerman minimized drag by placing large-diameter propellers at the end of the circular airfoil wingtips, maintaining a uniform flow of air over the flat pancake's single wing.
Chance Vought V-173 "Flying Pancake"
Proof-of-Concept
Even though the proof-of-concept Chance Vought V-173 "Flying Pancake" exhibited unusual flight characteristics, the V-173 could almost hover, survived forced landings including a nose-over, and could be piloted effectively.
Did you know?
Charles Lindbergh, the first man to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, piloted the V-173 "Flying Pancake" on several occasions and found it very responsive.
The V-173 "Flying Pancake" is believed to be responsible for several UFO sightings by the general public in the early 1940s.
The V-173 "Flying Pancake" is believed to be responsible for several UFO sightings by the general public in the early 1940s.
About our Aircraft
Proudly restored by the Vought Aircraft Heritage Foundation, the "Flying Pancake" arrived at the Museum in 2012. The extensive restoration took over eight years to complete with more than 25,000 volunteer labor hours. This unique aircraft is on long-term loan from the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum.
Aircraft Type: Proof-of-Concept Prototype
First Flight: 23 November 1942
Last Flight: 31 March 1947 - 190 total test flights
Mission: Determine the feasibility of further developing carrier-based short take-off and landing (STOL) fighter aircraft for the U.S. Navy
Project Outcome: Satisfactory flight characteristics but project ultimately cancelled with the end of WWII and rapid advancements in jet engine technology
Pilot: One
Number Built: One
Structure: Wood and Canvas
Powerplant: Two 80 hp Continental A-80 4-Cylinder Engines with Two 16'6" 3-Blade Propellers
Weight: 2258 lbs.
Dimensions: Wingspan 23'4", Length 26'8", Height 14'9"
Performance: Maximum Speed 138 mph, Rate of Climb 5,000 ft. in 7 min.
First Flight: 23 November 1942
Last Flight: 31 March 1947 - 190 total test flights
Mission: Determine the feasibility of further developing carrier-based short take-off and landing (STOL) fighter aircraft for the U.S. Navy
Project Outcome: Satisfactory flight characteristics but project ultimately cancelled with the end of WWII and rapid advancements in jet engine technology
Pilot: One
Number Built: One
Structure: Wood and Canvas
Powerplant: Two 80 hp Continental A-80 4-Cylinder Engines with Two 16'6" 3-Blade Propellers
Weight: 2258 lbs.
Dimensions: Wingspan 23'4", Length 26'8", Height 14'9"
Performance: Maximum Speed 138 mph, Rate of Climb 5,000 ft. in 7 min.
Video Credit: Erik Johnston
