NGP, LSA Concepts Modified Slightly As Testing Continues

As Aero-News reported earlier this week, Cessna is displaying two aircraft at Sun 'N Fun that likely represent the future direction of the storied planemaker: the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and Next Generation Piston (NGP) proof-of-concept airplanes.

Cessna tells ANN it continues to evaluate these proof-of-concept airplanes for design specifics, market demand, and whether or not the products support a viable business case for production.

Several changes have been made to the LSA proof-of-concept after 78 hours of testing the flight envelope -- most notably, another engine option. "We're evaluating the 100 horsepower Continental O-200 engine and we have modified the nose cowl to fit the Continental engine," said Neal Willford, project engineer for the LSA. The plane originally flew with a Rotax 912.

After 126 hours of testing the NGP proof-of concept aircraft, Cessna engineers are refining the aerodynamic design and systems. The proof-of-concept aircraft is powered by a normally aspirated 315 horsepower Lycoming IO-580. Other engines are also being considered for the NGP program.

The NGP is constructed using a higher percentage of composite materials than Cessna's traditional aircraft. While the final configuration isn't set in stone, Cessna says it is likely the final configuration would be a hybrid of composite and aluminum construction.

Cessna adamantly adds the (admittedly rough) interiors of the LSA and NGP proof-of-concept airplanes are NOT indication of what the production models would look like. Cessna says the company's interior designs are being evaluated with human factors mockups. The combination of developments from the proof-of-concept aircraft and the human factors mockups will define what the production planes would look like if the projects were to move forward.

Cessna's launch decisions on these aircraft are expected later this year.

FMI: www.cessna.com