Liaoning Academy’s RX4E Gains Type Cert

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) announced the issuance of the world’s first 'Part 23' Type Certification for an electric aircraft to Liaoning General Aviation Academy’s (LGAA) RX4E.

The fixed tricycle gear, high wing, four-seat aircraft made its maiden flight in 2019 and can now be used in commercial applications.

The manufacturer estimates its flight duration to be about 90 minutes with a range of 235 km (146 mi) at a cruising speed of 200 km/hr (124 mph).

Volar Air Mobility, LGAA’s partner for global sales, will market the RX4E and says the certification marks “a new era for sustainable aviation, paving the way for commercialization of electric aircraft in the advanced air mobility market.”

Volar continued, “this green aviation solution aims to bridge gaps in short-haul regional air mobility, specifically in developing countries with limited road infrastructure,” which aligns with Volar’s commitment to introducing the RX e-series worldwide.

The RX4E is marginally larger than the Piper Cherokee but also has a wing that is 4.3 meters longer and, interestingly, has no struts supporting the high wing. The manufacturer says the aircraft’s “high efficiency electric propulsion system integration, high lift drag ratio aerodynamic layout design” is also complemented by its “light, efficient and low-cost composite structure design and manufacturing.”

The RX4E extends on the earlier RX1E light sport aircraft which was certified by CAAC in 2015. The RX1E-S also claims to have been the world's first certified electric float plane in 2021.

FMI:  lgaaen.sau.edu.cn/