About the JONES JAY D CASSUTT M 1-11
The CASSUTT III M is a specialized light aircraft renowned for its role in the sport and racing aviation sectors. Created by former airline captain Tom Cassutt in the early 1950s, the CASSUTT III M emerged from a unique confluence of post-war aviation enthusiasm, where small, personal aircraft saw increased development and use. It was specifically designed for Formula One Air Racing, a niche but highly competitive field of aviation that sought to push the boundaries of speed and maneuverability on a small scale. With the outbreak of Formula One racing, there was a demand for an aircraft that could be easily built, yet still provide exceptional performance at a relatively low cost. The original design of the Cassutt series came about in 1951, with the 'III M' model being a refined version that addressed initial shortcomings in aerodynamics and performance. The CASSUTT III M quickly garnered attention for its simplicity in construction, mostly fabricated from basic materials like plywood and aircraft fabric, and powered by a Continental O-200 engine, capable of achieving high speeds that made it a formidable competitor in Formula One Air Racing. Its configuration as a mid-wing monoplane with a single seat and fixed landing gear made it agile and light, perfect for the rigorous demands of competitive air racing. One of the CASSUTT III M's primary benefits is its accessibility; amateur builders could assemble the aircraft from kits available in the market, ensuring that enthusiasts could participate without needing large capital or extensive resources. Over the decades, numerous modifications and improvements have been made to the basic design, keeping the Cassutt series relevant and competitive in racing circles. Its continued presence in the sport underlines the efficacy and enduring appeal of Cassutt's original vision for a do-it-yourself, high-performance racing aircraft.