In 1928, a group of engineers from Ryan Mechanics Monoplane Co. established Federal Aircraft Corp. in San Bernardino, California. The company’s first project was the Federal CM-1, a light multi-purpose aircraft representing a refinement of the Ryan M-1 model. William J. Waterhouse served as the chief designer for the project.
Design and Features of the CM-1
The Federal CM-1 was a four-seater, cantilever high-wing monoplane. It was powered by a 220 hp Wright J-4B Whirlwind radial engine, driving a two-bladed propeller.
Evolution and Production
After conducting tests, the prototype underwent modifications, including a lengthened nose section, after which the aircraft was renamed “Lone Eagle.” A total of two examples of the aircraft were built, registered as NX4041 and NC1724.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CM-1 |
| Wingspan, m | 11. 43 |
| Aircraft length, m | 8.92 |
| Aircraft height, m | 2.74 |
| Wing area, m2 | 24.34 |
| Empty weight | 944 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 1577 |
| Fuel, l | 323 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Wright J-4B Whrlwind |
| Power, hp | 1 x 220 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 201 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 169 |
| Practical range, km | 1176 |
| Crew, crew members | 1 |
| Payload: | up to 3 passengers |
Image gallery of the Federal CM-1 Lone Eagle
