The GAL 55 featured side-by-side seating and a tricycle undercarriage. Although it was first flown at the end of 1943, “mid-trixie” was not evaluated by the AFEE until mid-1945.
The tricycle undercarriage of the GAL 55 was called for in the official specification, TX.3/43.
General Aircraft GAL55 training glider NP671 ended its days awaiting disposal outside the “M” Flight Hangar.

This side view of the first GAL 55 clearly shows the bellows-operated flaps.

The side-by-side seating and mid-wing design are apparent in this head-on view of GAL 55 NP671.

The GAL 55’s tail bumper was thought inadequate to protect the empennage against damage in landings at high angles of attack.

These views show GAL 55 NP671 at a later stage of its tests, with cable deflectors fitted at the top and base of the fin, and fairings on the main undercarriage legs.

General Aircraft GAL 55