Soaring with Genius: The Legacy of Hanz-Luzius Studer

The Unsung Hero of Aviation’s Golden Age

Hamburger Flugzeugbau HFB 320

A Journey Across Borders

Dr. Hanz-Luzius Studer, the esteemed chief designer, faced unexpected adversity when the Swiss cancelled the progressive fighter aircraft project P-16, and when the groundbreaking SAAC-23 project moved to the USA. However, this setback did not deter the resilient mind of Dr. Studer. His next journey led him to Germany in October 1962 where he joined forces with Hamburger Flugzeugbau (today known as Airbus).

There, he contributed to the development of the HFB 320 Hansa-Jet, a business jet unique for its forward-swept wings. This design allowed the wings to extend through the fuselage behind the cabin space, paving the way for a continuous cabin floor. The placement of the engines far aft made for a quieter cabin, a potential competitive edge against the Lear Jet 23.

A Trial by Fire

The HFB 320 Hansa-Jet prototype underwent rigorous testing under the watchful eye of Dr. Studer and passed with flying colors, meeting FAA Part 25 standards.

However, within a year, a tragic accident claimed the life of the chief test pilot. The prototype, caught in an unrecoverable spin, crashed. In response to this incident, modifications were made to improve the stall system.

A Commercial Flight of Icarus

Despite the adversity, the HFB 320 went into production. From 1968 to 1973, a total of 47 airframes were built, including two prototypes. However, the commercial success of the jet was limited, and production ceased when public funds dried up.

The largest customer was the German Air Force, which used the HFB 320 jets for Transport, Training, and Navigation missions. The last of these jets were eventually sold and scrapped in California by the late nineties.

Contributions to Aerospace Research

Yet, Dr. Studer’s influence extended beyond these commercial endeavors. The HFB 320 S-1 aircraft, for instance, found new life as an in-flight simulator at the German Aerospace Research Center. From 1970 until 1984, it generated a wealth of research findings in direct lift control, noise abatement landing procedures, and other key areas of aviation science.

A Visionary Until The End

Towards the twilight of his career, Studer embarked on pioneering studies for a civil Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) transport aircraft. While the project never materialized in the commercial sector, it led to significant scientific contributions, including various patents in configuration design and thrust control.

A Tribute to a Legend

Unfortunately, the unyielding stress of his professional career and a persistent illness took a toll on Dr. Studer. He passed away on September 21, 1971. His invaluable contributions to the field of aviation may not have received the recognition they deserved, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of engineers, technicians, and skilled workers.

Here’s to the remarkable life of Dr. Hanz-Luzius Studer, a true pioneer and an unsung hero of aviation history.

Hamel, Peter G, and Gary D Park. 2022. The Learjet History. Springer.