Aerobatic Trainer Ready To Go For A Spin In US

New Zealand's Alpha Aviation announced FAA certification of its flagship Alpha 160A aerobatic trainer Sunday. According to Managing Director Richard Sealy, the company has already received many inquiries from prospective US customers.

"Our aircraft have already proven to be of considerable interest to US aero clubs and flying schools," he said. "FAA certification will now enable us to actively market and sell our aircraft in this hugely significant market."

As Aero-News reported last year, the company received Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) type certification for the aircraft in June, and announced expansion of its facilities. The company also received European Aviation Safety Association (EASA) certification last summer.

Representatives with Alpha Aviation note the US accounts for 69 percent of the total world general aviation market, making FAA certification the single-most important step in securing the long-term viability of Alpha the company.

Sealy said the significance of FAA certification could not be underestimated.

"In the world of aviation, FAA certification is the equivalent of the Pope's blessing," he said. "Alpha Aviation has now really arrived on the international aviation stage."

Alpha Aviation, based in Hamilton, New Zealand, provides aircraft to aviation schools and aero clubs, as well as to individuals. The Alpha production line was transferred from France after finalization of an agreement between Apex Aircraft Group and Alpha Aviation in 2004.

The first production Alpha 160A aircraft entered service with the Waikato Aero Club, based across the road from the company at Hamilton Airport, in October 2006. 

The Alpha 2000 series is comprised of the basic trainer Alpha 120T, the fuel-injected aerobatic trainer and cross country touring Alpha 160Ai, and the FAA-certified 160A aerobatic trainer aircraft. Planes are now selling in Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Alpha Aviation currently has 48 orders and 21 options to buy aircraft from around the globe. Due to higher than anticipated demand for the aircraft, Alpha Aviation has also expanded its Hamilton, New Zealand facility by more than 40 per cent to enable a substantial increase in production capacity.

FMI: www.alphaaviation.co.nz/index.asp