Mooney's New M10 Series Will Be Diesel-Powered

As noted in Monday's Airborne programming, ANN has learned that Mooney has a new airframe in the works... actually two of them and get this... they're both diesel powered.

Mooney International introduced the first new Mooney models since the restructuring of the company at the Airshow China 2014 in Zhuhai, China. The company notes that the Mooney M10T and the M10J fill a need and reflect innovation at a different level of the fleet mix and these aircraft will provide a stepping stone to the high performance M20 series.

The M10T is a modern fixed gear composite trainer equipped with Continental's CD-135 Diesel engine to train new pilots for the Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA) that they will be flying in the future. The M10J will provide an upgrade from the M10T airframe with more luxury and amenities for the owner pilot. In addition, the M10J will be equipped with the CD-155 Diesel engine. The M10T and M10J engines have leading turbo diesel technology, low operating costs, and provide pilots a fueling option of diesel or jet fuel. These two aircraft will provide the general aviation market with a modern aircraft, not only for the mature western aviation market, but also for the fast growing Chinese market. The M10 series is expected to gain certification and begin deliveries in 2017.

Mooney's M20 series are all Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) Part 23 certified aircraft. The M20TN Acclaim Type S and M20R Ovation3 are single engine aircraft legends known for their high performance and fast speed. The twin turbo charged, 242 ktas M20TN Acclaim Type S features a premium package that includes a Continental Gold Standard TSIO-550 G engine with a three or five-year full parts and labor warranty and a 2200-hour TBO. The M20R Ovation3 features a 310hp Continental Gold standard IO-550 engine and an industry-leading 197 ktas cruise speed. Until now, there has been no trainer in the product line.

The M10T will fill the need for a new trainer option for new pilots and flight schools everywhere so pilots can seamlessly move onto Mooney¹s M20 series. The M10J, displayed as a full-scale mock-up at the show, is a retractable gear, diesel-powered aircraft. The M10J performance goals include cruise speeds greater than 170 ktas and a range of more than 1,000 nm while maintaining a competitive market price. The 'J' designation alludes to the well-regarded and highly popular M20J also known as the Mooney 201. The M20J is regarded amongst the most fuel-efficient single engine aircraft in its category and has been featured as a leader in efficiency throughout the aviation news industry since its initial release in the 1970s. 

"We designed the all new M10J model with longtime Mooney fans in mind. The M20J helped change general aviation by making flying practical to more people across the U.S. Now, the M10J promises to do the same for the world. Not just in the U.S., but also in China as its general aviation industry quickly develops," said Dr. Jerry Chen, Mooney CEO.

At Mooney's unveiling ceremony in Zhuhai Dr. Chen said, "I am very excited to officially present the new M10 series of Mooney aircraft for Training and Performance. These aircraft mark a new beginning for Mooney and are an indication of great product innovation coupled with Mooney¹s long line of history making aircraft."

FMI: www.mooney.com