Not-So-Silent 'Jet Silent' Flies!

Alisport has been doing some amazing things with their sport glider series for several years now... in addition to developing a very fine self-launched kit aircraft, as well as an electrically powered version, they have now turned their attention to jet power.

The first test flights of a jet-powered Silent sailplane have been conducted by an independent group working closely with Alisport to analyze the potential for future development of turbine-powered sailplanes. Powered by twin AMT USA engines (usually seen on larger model jet aircraft), the 12m Silent easily self-launched with what were determined to be "acceptable take-off distance and good climb rate."

Several successful flights were conducted to analyze performance, handling, temperature issues, and engine systems. Though there is no direct connection between the two, it is quite easy for this "not-so-silent" Silent to remind one of another Italian jet-powered sailplane, the two-seat Caproni A-21SJ which weighed almost three times as much and produced slightly over twice the thrust.

While the preliminary results are very encouraging, and more flight tests are planned, Alisport says that they are currently not accepting inquiries as to the current or future availability of jet engines. We'll keep you updated...

FMI: www.alisport.com