09/30/2010. Remarks by Walter van Tilborg: "The Ménestrel (Minstrel) was an original design homebuilt single-seat sport aircraft of Henri Nicollier, who also built the first example. This first aircraft was powered by one 30 hp Rectimo/VW 1300 engine and it made the first flight on November 25, 1962, after work had started in 1960. The pictured aircraft was built by Bernard Cintrat and first flew March 12, 1982, and at least six further aircraft were completed in France, with one 40-45 hp VW or VW-based engines and often with modifications incorporated by the builders.

The HN 434 Super Ménestrel was an improved version announced in 1986. It featured a longer and wider cockpit, had increased fuel capacity and a more simple construction and was strengthened for more powerful engines. The first HN 434 was built by Henri Talagrand and Alain Monzo in France and this aircraft made its first flight on November 4, 1986. Engines used in the HN 434 included one 60+ hp VW, Limbach SL1700 or similar engines. Roland Lamglais built the modified HN 435RL, that was first flown around 2005, registered as F-PARL."