Model Combines Lightweight Design with Pilot Comfort

Sonex Aircraft showcased its first two-seat aerobatic prototype at this year’s EAA Oshkosh Airventure. Though it has not yet reached the market, the high-wing design has received several pats on the back from potential customers for its spacious cockpit and lightweight construction.

“The mission of the airplane is for it to fly like a Sonex: to be fast and aerobatic,” stated Mark Schaible, owner and president of Sonex Aircraft.

The prototype aims for a final empty weight of 820 lbs or less, optimizing utility and remaining within the upcoming MOSAIC guidelines.

One of the Sonex Highwing Prototype’s most eye-catching features is its accessible doors and large cockpit space. Hundreds of Airventure-goers hopped in, finding that pilots up to 6'5" still had more than enough leg and headroom.

“The response has been tremendous. It's everything we hoped for, and I think more,” Schaible noted.

The Highwing will start production with a 130 hp UL Power engine. Sonex is working with UL and Sensenich to map out RPM benchmarks for climb and cruise capabilities, as well as simulating use of various other power plants.

The current build is a tailwheel; however, Sonex plans to construct a tricycle gear prototype in the near future. Sonex is aiming to take orders by next year’s Airventure and begin shipping out by the end of 2025.

Though a final price has not yet been set, Sonex estimates that the build will fall somewhere between $70-$100 grand when factoring in an airframe, engine, and avionics.

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