A team of 25 dedicated engineering students and aviation enthusiasts have set themselves the goal of breaking the world record for the longest distance flown by a human-powered aircraft (HPA) in 2026. Their aircraft “Odonata” is expected to fly at least 117 kilometers using pure muscle power. With a lightweight and efficient design made of Mylar film, balsa wood and carbon fiber, the project is both innovative and sustainable. The team is supported by CTC GmbH, a member of Composites United e.V., among others.
The Odonata team – consisting of 25 dedicated engineering students and passionate aviation enthusiasts – are united by a common goal: to break the world record for the longest distance ever travelled by a human-powered aircraft (HPA) in 2026. To achieve this, they have to fly at least 117 kilometers with the “Odonata” aircraft. The special thing about it: The aircraft is powered exclusively by human muscle power – without an engine, without fuel, completely emission-free!
Picture: Karl Kühmstedt
After the successful participation in the DLR Design Challenge in 2023, it was time to build a real aircraft. A Human Powered Aircraft seemed like the perfect choice, which fits in perfectly with the times. Maximum aerodynamic efficiency and uncompromising lightweight design are the most important requirements for the aircraft – and all without the need for complex certification procedures. With a wingspan of almost 35 metres, the empty weight remains under 30 kilograms! This is made possible by the efficient use of Mylar film, balsa wood and carbon fibre – as well as your support!
As a non-profit organisation, Odonata e. V. offers students a unique platform to research, develop and build aircraft together. Although the project is unique in Germany, there are other committed teams around the world with whom they want to compete. The plan is therefore to take part in competitions in Japan and England at a later date.
This project is much more than just building an aeroplane. It offers students a unique opportunity to put the theoretical knowledge into practice. The knowledge gained in the areas of lightweight design, efficient flying and resource-saving aircraft construction will make an important contribution to the transformation towards sustainable aviation. Now, however, the focus is on turning the aircraft developed on paper into reality. For this we need your support!
We would be happy to introduce you to our project and our team in a personal conversation or meeting and show you how you can support this unique world record project and us students!
Contact:
Felix Herrmann
info@hpa-odonata.de
Phone: +49 173 8962278
Web: https://hpa-odonata.de/
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