title: Europe Sails Independent
text: # Europe Sails Independent
  
  The Europe Sails Independent is an Austrian high-wing, single-place, hang glider, designed and produced by Europe Sails.
  
  ## Design and development
  
  The Independent was introduced in 2003 as a "topless" competition design, lacking a kingpost and top rigging. It is available in two sizes.
  
  The aircraft is made from a combination of 7075 aluminum tubing and carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer, with the wing covered in 170g Dacron sailcloth. The wing nose angle is 132°. The wing features carbon fibre tips to smooth airflow and improve handling. The model number indicates the approximate wing area in square meters.
  
  ## Variants
  
  ### Independent 13
  
      Small sized model with a wing area of 13 $m^2$ (140 sq ft) and a wing span of 10 m (32.8 ft). The pilot hook-in weight range is 56 to 90 kg (123.5 to 198.4 lb). This model sold for €5084 in 2003.
  
  ### Independent 14
  
      Large sized model with a wing area of 14.3 $m^2$ (154 sq ft) and a wing span of 10.35 m (34.0 ft). The pilot hook-in weight range is 75 to 110 kg (165.3 to 242.5 lb). This model sold for €5168 in 2003.
  
  ## Specifications (Independent 14)
  
  Data from Bertrand and Europe Sails
  
  General characteristics
  
  * Crew: one
  * Wingspan: 10.35 m (33 ft 11 in)
  * Wing area: 14.3 $m^2$ (154 sq ft)
  * Aspect ratio: 7.4:1
  * Empty weight: 33.5 kg (74 lb)
  * Gross weight: 143.5 kg (316 lb)
  