Ae270 Propjet Making Significant Progress Toward Certification

Ibis Aerospace has announced that it has a total of 73 orders for its Ae270 Propjet. The revised total reflects a commitment by Rheinland Air Service to sell the Ae270 in Germany and surrounding European countries. The 73 orders include six options for the PT6A-66A powered Ae270. In addition to the increase in orders, a prototype Ae270 recently completed a series of flight tests in Córdoba, Spain. Ae270 prototype serial number 3 was stationed there from November 6 to December 11, 2002. During its stay the aircraft completed 65 flights, logging 90 hours 20 minutes. Córdoba provided a favorable climate for continuation of the flight test program during winter months. Tests performed there included engine, stall, lateral and directional static stability, and spin tests. The Ae270 will return to Spain in February 2003.

Prototype number 3 has been instrumental in reducing the number of flight hours required for certification of the conforming prototype serial number 5. Among tests performed, the pitot-static system has been fully tested on prototype number 3 with confirmation of correct function. As a result, the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority of the Czech Republic) has reduced the requirements on the conforming prototype whereby final approval can be achieved in the current schedule without the requirement for additional flights. Flight Performances I certification is 80% complete with only twelve flights remaining. Flight Performances II certification will continue with prototype number 5.

Acceptance has been granted on a number of systems, assemblies and equipment on the Ae270. These include fatigue tests on engine mounts, nose and main landing gear. Two wing-to-fuselage connection specimens have been successfully tested under the watchful eye of the CAA. Finally, documentation has been received from more than 60 suppliers for the certification of supplied parts and equipment. This represents 90% completion on supplied aircraft components.

It is expected that the first flight of the third flying Ae270 prototype, number 5, will take place next month. This aircraft will be the first to fly with the PT6A-66A engine, a 1583 ESHP thermodynamic powerplant de-rated to 850 SHP take-off. The Ae270 Propjet has been in flight test since July 25, 2000, while a second prototype entered flight test on January 11, 2002.

Jiri Fidransky, President of Ibis Aerospace commented, “We are very pleased with the ongoing accomplishments within the Ae270 program. The certification schedule is being followed very closely and we have achieved success on a number of fronts. Meanwhile our distribution infrastructure is taking shape with a lot of excitement being generated. The Ae270 has been well-received by customers and industry alike.”

FAA certification is scheduled by the end of 2003. First deliveries will take place in the first quarter of 2004. The Ae270 is being certified for FAR 23 single pilot operation and will be eligible for FAR Part 135 operation.

The Ae270 Propjet is a large-cabin, pressurized aircraft designed to carry up to ten people (two crew plus eight passengers). It will cover stage lengths of up to 1,610 nm with fuel reserves. The Ae270 can also be configured for bulk cargo.

FMI: www.Ae270.com