Basic Version And Carbon Fiber Model 254 CF Provide Range Of
Capabilities, Pricing
Belite Aircraft has developed two
variants of its FAR Part 103 compliant, ready-to-fly airplane that
provide the fun and exhilaration of flight at two distinct price
points and with different optional equipment. To meet the
demand for an affordable, straight-forward, and lightweight
version, Belite is offering the Model 254 in a Ready To Fly (RTF)
configuration for $29,995, FOB Wichita. The "premium" version
of the aircraft, which incorporates approximately 50 additional
features and makes extensive use of carbon fiber to lower its
overall weight, has been christened the Belite 254 CF. It is
also available Ready To Fly for $54,995.
The basic Belite 254 incorporates more aluminum and less carbon
fiber than its more advanced sibling and eliminates some
non-essential options. It retains the carbon fiber firewall,
full span flaperons, five gallon detachable fuel tank for easy
refueling, 5 inch wheels, brakes, electric start, full lexan
windshield and sunroof, fiberglass cowling, flight instrumentation,
electric start, electric fuel gauge, and much more. Powered
by a 30 horsepower engine, it also offers foldable wings and a
flying weight that is well below FAR Part 103 requirements at 242
pounds. Consequently, owners / operators are free to
additionally customize the airplane to meet their requirements.
Belite 254 Basic Model
The Belite 254 CF includes the highest technology carbon
fiber spars and ribs, hydraulic brakes, aluminum wheels, full
flight instrumentation, built in transceiver, bigger 45HP engine,
enhanced electrical system, and a "Gizmo" dock for incorporation of
a portable GPS. It also includes a ballistic, full-aircraft
parachute system, a "skinned" aft fuselage and an attractive,
Stewart Systems covering system and distinctive paint scheme.
"The introduction of the reduced-price model of the Belite 254
is a response to potential customers who want the innovative
engineering, sprightly design, and a measure of taildragger
conventionality in an airplane that doesn't require an FAA
registration, a pilot's license or a current medical at a price
that is well below the bottom level of the Light Sport market,"
said James Wiebe, Chief Executive Officer of Belite Aircraft.
"They indicated that they like our airplane but wanted a basic
aircraft that they can modify to their own specifications.
For those who want the fly-away convenience and a significant
amount of additional capability and flexibility, the Belite 254 CF
enhances the basic design with practical and safety-enhancing
features like additional avionics, a parachute and the weight
savings provided by carbon fiber construction.
Belite 254CF
Wiebe also indicated that Belite Aircraft will be announcing a
low cost Belite 254 kit later this month. Delivery positions
for kits or finished, ready-to-fly airplanes may be reserved with a
deposit of $2,500.
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