Stick Shift

Sonex announced that a new dual-stick option has been made available for the company’s Sonex, Waiex, and Xenos B models. The dual-stick configuration will be available as both a forward fit option for new aircraft and a retrofit package by which Sonex owners may convert extant specimens of the aforementioned models to dual-flight-controls.  

The dual-stick architecture includes a new universal seat pan installation that accommodates both center and dual-stick installations and features a removable forward seat pan that facilitates improved access for autopilot servo installations and installation and service of avionics sensor boxes and/or antennas. The removable forward seat pan installs via a piano hinge and includes cover plates for unused center stick or dual stick locations.

New B-model kit orders can be upgraded with dual-sticks for $760. Retrofit dual-stick kits for existing Sonex B-model aircraft will retail for $1,500. The dual-stick installation occasions an aircraft weight increase of approximately 2.25-pounds over the center-stick configuration. Upholstery options conducive to the dual-stick option will be made available shortly.

Potential buyers should note that Sonex accepts no parts exchanges or returns for center-stick configuration components. Additionally, lead time for dual-stick retrofit kits is currently 10 to 12 weeks. Existing customers waiting on Sonex kits may add the dual-stick upgrade to their respective orders by contacting Sonex customer service. Some parts may be backordered and shipped separately.

The Sonex, Waiex, and Xenos are a family of lightweight, metal, low-wing, two-seat homebuilt aircraft produced and marketed by Sonex Aircraft of Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The Sonex airframe is designed to accept various lightweight engines ranging in output from 80 to 130-horsepower.

The Sonex, Waiex and Xenos qualify, one and all, as American experimental light-sport aircraft (E-LSA).

FMI: www.sonexaircraft.com/b-model-dual-sticks