2.A
Aviation Merit Badge
Digital Resource Guide
Build a model FPG-9. Get others in your troop or patrol to make their own model.
Then organize a competition to test the precision of flight and landing of the models.
You can quickly and easily build and fly a simple foam plate glider (FPG-9) to understand basic aerodynamics and flight mechanics.
Materials you will need
- 9-inch foam plate (thin, sturdy plates work best)
- Plastic drinking straw
- Small binder clip (1” size works well for weight)
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Tape or glue (optional for reinforcement)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Print a FPG-9 template with clear markings for wings, tail fins, and fuselage (many templates are freely available online).
- Cut out the wing, tail, and rudder shapes from the foam plate using the template. Ensure you cut carefully to maintain symmetry and precision.
- Attach the wings by positioning them horizontally in the middle of the straw and taping them securely.
- Attach the horizontal stabilizer (tail wing) to one end of the straw.
- Tape the vertical fin (rudder) on top of the tail wing.
- Add the weight by fastening the binder clip to the other end of the straw as ballast. This will balance the glider and help it fly straight.
- Test and adjust by moving the binder clip, shifting it forward or backward to change the center of gravity and how it affects flight.
- Stabilize the flight by bending the wings as needed.
Try for yourself!
Building and flying an FPG-9 is a fun and inexpensive way to see how airplanes fly. Grab a foam plate and a few supplies, and see what you can create!
Try for yourself!
Building and flying an FPG-9 is a fun and inexpensive way to see how airplanes fly. Grab a foam plate and a few supplies, and see what you can create!
Here are some instructions, as well as a video on how to build it.
