Building a matchstick airplane is one thing. Building a matchstick airplane powered by flies is another.
Totally hilarious. I wish I had the patience to actually attempt these instructions; however, they are worth a look, if only for their entertainment value. Funny stuff.
Here are some highlights...
How to Store Flies
- "Put [flies] in a jar and put the jar in the freezer. In a few seconds the flies will be chilled out completely. This is called cryogenics."
- "[cryogenics] has its drawbacks. For example, the flies will be dead flies if you freeze them too long. Dead flies are no good...."
- "Refrigerate your flies. It takes longer to make them comatose, but they have a higher recovery rate than the ones you leave in the freezer next to the burritos."
Attaching Flies to Matchstick Airplane
- "Take the flies out of the freezer [or fridge]. Attach the abdomen of one frigid fly to each drop of glue. Make sure all the flies are facing the same direction.
- "Breathe life into the flies. A miracle: A gentle puff of your warm breath will resuscitate the flies."
- "Launch the aircraft. It should fly like a charm, and, far from being cruel to the flies, you'll be teaching them a new and valuable thing."
Books for Further Reading
 | Kids' Paper Airplane Book by Ken Blackburn |
 | The Klutz Book of Paper Airplanes (Klutz) by Doug Stillinger |