2007 pocket guide to business aircraft

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 2007 POCKET GUIDE TO BUSINESS AIRCRAFT ALAN PEAFORD SUPPORTED BY 

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  • 2007 POCKET GUIDETO

    BUSINESSAIRCRAFT

    ALAN PEAFORD

    SUPPORTED BY

  • 3The cover image shows the exciting Piaggio P180Avanti II in action as VIP transport with the Italian airforce. Here five of the aircraft - fitted with RockwellCollins Proline 21 avionics fly in formation.Fr

    ont C

    over

    BUSINESSaviation is probably at its most exciting since the day theworld woke up to Bill Lears concept that led to thecoining of the phrase jetsetter. In 2006 some 13 business aircraft receivedcertification or were first delivered to customers as we enter 2007 there areclose to another 20 business aircraft in serious development.

    This pocket book was created to bring together all of the aircraft that areregularly used for business and corporate purposes and to look too atthose aircraft in development that should see certification within the nextcouple of years.

    The book wouldnt have been possible without the support of RockwellCollins Inc. During the research phase of this 2007 edition the name RockwellCollins kept popping up as manufacturers talked of development andimprovement in both cockpit and cabin technologies. The Cedar Rapidscompany develops smart communications and aviation electronics solutionsand it is clear that its technology and innovation has been put to good work inadvancing the goals of business aircraft manufacturers around the world. Weare proud that the company wanted to be part of this project.

    I would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the marketing andcommunication professionals at the aircraft manufacturers who havepainstakingly dealt with our enquiries to help us ensure the accuracy of thedata used in the book.

    Producing this pocket guide is a team effort and I would especially like toacknowledge the great effort of Philip Nasskau who broke away from his attemptto start a career as a commercial pilot in order to do a great job as my technicalresearcher and editorial assistant; and to colleagues from the Flight Internationaland Flight Evening News teams who contributed so much. I would particularly liketo thank the wonderful Kate Sarsfield, Business Aviation editor, Flight, for her wisecounsel and enthusiastic support; and the talented Giuseppe Joe Picarella andTim Brown for their skills and enthusiasm that produces such masterpieces as thecutaways you will find at the start of each section. The originals and more canbe found on the www.flightglobal.com website.

    We hope you will find this book of use and would welcome your suggestionsfor additions and revisions for next years edition.

    Safe and comfortable landings.

    Alan Peaford, NBAA, October 2006.

    Foreword

    2

    First edition published in 2006 by Aerocomm

    Aerocomm LtdThe Gatehouse

    104, Lodge LaneGrays

    Essex RM16 2ULUK

    www.aerocomm.co.uk

    www.flightglobal.com

    Copyright Aerocomm Ltd, Publishers. 2006

    All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrievalsystem, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,

    photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of thepublishers and copyright holders.

    ISBN: 0-9554195-0-6 and 978-0-9554195-0-8

    Aerocomm acknowledges with gratitude the provision of imagery by the manufacturerswith whom the copyright for their photographs remains.

    Designed in the UK by Chris Murray, Allsortz LtdPrinted and bound by Newnorth Ltd of Bedford, England

    A E R O C O M M

  • 4 5

    LIGHT JET AIRCRAFT

    This category covers businessjets with a useful load of morethan 5,000lbs but less than10,000lbs. The first chapter is forthe classic light jet with a usefulload of less than 7,500lbs withthe second chapter as the Super Light Jets over 7,500lbs.

    Chapter 8 Light Jets 130

    Cessa Citation BravoCessna Citation CJ3Cessna Citation Encore +Embraer Phenom 300Grob SPnHawker 400 XPLearjet 40 XRSino Swearingen SJ30

    Chapter 9 Super light Jets 148

    Cessna Citation XLSLearjet 45 XR

    MID-SIZE JETS

    The Mid-Size Jets are determinedby having a useful load of between10,000lbs and 20,000lbs and /or amaximum take off weight (MTOW)in excess of 20,000 lbs. The firstchapter deals with class Mid-Size Jetsbelow 15,000lbs and the Super Mid-Size deals with aircraft over 15,000lbsor with a much greater MTOW.

    Chapter 10 Mid-Size Jets 154

    Cessna Citation SovereignGulfstream G150Embraer Legacy 600Hawker 850XPLearjet 60 XR

    Chapter 11 Super Mid-Size Jets 164

    Bombardier Challenger 300Cessna Citation X Dassault Falcon 50EXGulfstream G200Hawker 4000

    LARGER BUSINESS JETS

    This category covers the top of therange business aircraft all withuseful loads exceeding 20,000lbsor an MTOW exceeding 40,000lbsand falls into three chapters. Thefirst is for Large Jets, the secondSuper-Large Jets with extracapacity or range and the third isfor the Ultra Long Range Jets

    Chapter 12 Large Jets 178

    Bombardier Challenger 605Dassault Falcon 2000DXDassault Falcon 2000EXGulfstream G350

    Chapter 13 Super Large Jets 188

    Bombardier Global 5000Dassault Falcon 900DXDassault Falcon 900EXGulfstream G450

    Chapter 14 Ultra Long Range Jets 198

    Bombardier Global Express XRSDassault Falcon 7X Gulfstream G500Gulfstream G550

    AIRLINERS AND SUPERSONIC JETS

    The Airliner aircraft tend to bedirect modifications of existing air

    transport platforms. But this sectionalso covers the ultimate top-of-the-range business jet - supersonicaircraft under development.

    Chapter 15 Airliners and SupersonicBusiness Jets 208

    Airbus A318 EliteAirbus ACJAirbus A320 PrestigeBoeing Business Jet Boeing BBJ2Boeing BBJ3Bombardier Challenger 800Dornier 328Jet Embraer Lineage 1000Aerion SBJ

    BUSINESS AIRCRAFTMANUFACTURERS

    Chapter 16 Company Profiles 232

    Adam AircraftAgustaWestlandAirbusBellBoeing Business JetsBombardierBritten NormanCessna DassaultEADS SocataEclipse AviationEmbraerEpicEurocopterEviationExtraFarnborough AircraftGulfstreamHondaHoneywell(New) PiperPiaggioPilatusQuestRaytheonRockwell CollinsSikorskySino SwearingenSpectrum

    INDEX OF AIRCRAFT 240

    Foreword 3

    INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

    Chapter 1: The business aviation market into 2007 6

    BUSINESS AIRCRAFT INPRODUCTION OR ADVANCED DEVELOPMENT

    HELICOPTERS AND OTHER ROTORCRAFT

    Chapter 2 Rotorcraft 8

    AgustaWestland A109 Power/GrandAgustaWestland A119 KoalaAgustaWestland AW139AgustaWestland EH101 MerlinBell 206B-3 JetRangerBell 206L4 LongRangerBell 407Bell 412EPBell 427Bell 429 GlobalRangerBell 430BellAgusta BA609Eurocopter AS350B2/B3 EcureuilEurocopter AS355NP Ecureuil 2Eurocopter EC120B Colibri Eurocopter EC130B4 Ecureil Eurocopter EC135 P2i/T2iEurocopter EC145Eurocopter EC155 B1 DauphinEurocopter EC225 Super PumaSikorsky S-76C++Sikorsky S-92

    PISTON POWERED AIRCRAFT

    Chapter 3 Piston Aircraft 54

    Adam Aircraft A500Beechcraft BaronPiper Seneca V

    TURBOPROP AIRCRAFT

    Chapter 4 Turboprops 62

    Beechcraft 1900DBeechcraft King Air B200Beechcraft King Air C90GTBeechcraft King Air 350BN-2T IslanderCessna Caravan 675Cessna Grand Caravande Havilland Twin Otter 400EADS Socata TBM-850Epic Aircraft EpicLTExtra EA 500Farnborough Aircraft F1 KestrelGrob G160 RangerPiaggio P180 Avanti IIPilatus PC-12 Piper MeridianQuest Kodiak

    VERY LIGHT JET AIRCRAFT

    Aircraft in this category have jetengines and a useful load of lessthan 5,000lbs. The first chapterdeals with aircraft that are aimed atowner-pilots; the second chapter isfor Ultra Light VLJs - aircraftprimarily aimed at the air-taximarket with useful load of lessthan 3,500lbs and no separationbetween cockpit and main cabin.The third chapter is for aircraft thatwould be described as very light orentry-level business jets.

    Chapter 5 Personal Jets 98

    ATG JavelinDiamond Aircraft D-JetExcel-Jet Sport-Jet

    Chapter 6 Ultra Light Jets 106

    Adam Aircraft A700Eclipse 500

    Chapter 7 Very Light Jets 112

    Beechcraft Premier IACessna Citation CJ1+Cessna Citation CJ2+Cessna Citation MustangEviation Jets EV20 VantageEmbraer Phenom 100HondaJetSpectrum 33

    The performance and specification data given in thepocket guide are provided from manufacturersfigures where available and are subject to change. Rate of climb is shown at standard MTOW using

    all available engines. Take off distance is shown at Sea Level, ISA,

    MTOW to clear 50 obstacle.

    Landing distance is shown at Sea Level, ISA,MLW, to clear 50 obstacle with nil reverse

    Max range is shown as full fuel with an averagepassenger load . The total number of passengersand crew from the figures is shown inparenthesis.

    Weight figures are shown as Standard MTOW.

    Contents

    P E R F O R M A N C E A N D S P E C I F I C A T I O N D A T A

  • 7The Asia/Africa/Middle East region once againranks as the area with the highest purchaseexpectations which grew for the fourthconsecutive year to a record level exceeding 50percent the highest reading in the history ofthe survey. Confidence in Asian economicgrowth is also boosting interest in longer-rangeaircraft with state of the art avionics.

    North America is expected to account forabout 61 percent of business jet deliveriesover the next five years,

    But it is the issue over the VLJnomenclature that will lead the fightingground. The VLJ sector will stratify into two,or possibly three, segments that reflect notonly the size of the aircraft, but also theirprice, performance and target market. Thedivisions are becoming evident as the orderbooks for these new small jets begin to build.

    In this book I have segmented them intoPersonal Jets a real entry-level jet, if not anentry-level business jet where we shall seecompanies such as Cirrus following the lead ofDiamond in offering an aircraft that is a naturalstep up from the turboprop recreational owner-pilot who may still fly for business purposes.Honeywell argues that there is a cut-offbetween the classic very-light and the ultra-light jets (such as the Eclipse 500 and the Adam700) which is around the $2-2.5 million mark.Honeywells survey indicates a potential 10-yeardemand from corporate flight departments forup to 1,000 ultra light jets, but this is dwarfedby the 4000 aircraft expected to be delivered toowner-pilots over the same period.

    The total excludes any demand fromfractional-ownership or air-taxi operators.

    Embraers forecast of 2,515 VLJ deliveriesbetween 2006 and 2016 covers aircraftranging from the D-Jet to the Phenom 100,and so is not directly comparable withHoneywells. The total also excludes the air-taxi market, which the Brazilianmanufacturer tentatively estimates at 2,500-3,000 aircraft over the 10-year period.

    Canadian manufacturer Bombardier also

    published its market forecast predicting atleast 600 aircraft a year for the industryexcluding air taxis and fractional operators.Bombardier suggests that the entry into themarket of aircraft such as the Eclipse, theMustang and others could grow thetraditional market. Bombardiers JamesHoblyn said It should bring more peopleinto wanting jets and there is naturalprogression. More than eighty percent ofbusiness jet buyers are existing owners; thegrowth comes from new demand which canbe in other countries or as people movefrom chartering into owning aircraft.

    Bombardier sees increasing demand fromnew international markets such as China andRussia. We are now at the position wherehalf our business is from North America andthe other half from the rest of the world.The industry generally has 60% of sales inNorth America. We believe that the emergingeconomies will be creating a new call ofpotential buyers.

    Whatever way you look at it from thehumblest of piston engined aircraft, throughpowerful turboprops, to large corporatehelicopters, personal air taxis, business jetsand immaculate air palaces inside the frameof a converted airliner, Business Aviation in2007 will thrive. ALAN PEAFORD

    BEHIND THE SCENES THEINDUSTRY IS WORKING ATCREATING GREATERDIFFERENTIATION BETWEEN THECATEGORIES OR CLASS OFBUSINESS AIRCRAFT TRAVEL.

    6

    THEweek that a foiled terrorist plot inLondon brought chaos to thetransatlantic commercial air transport world, Iwas stepping on to a Hawker 800 I hadchartered from Club 328 at Londons BigginHill to join friends and family in Florence, Italy.

    Although there was increased security atthe executive terminal, the flight took off ontime, landed ahead of time and the fasttrack treatment with the airports FBO teammeant we were where we were supposed tobe when we were supposed to be there.

    Across the world charter operatorsreported increased enquiries and bookings some by as much as 30 percent.

    If the terrorists achieved one thing, theyhave taken down the barrier that led manyindustrialists and corporations particularly inEurope to resist the strong argument to makeuse of business and corporate aviation services.

    Business in the USA has long recognisedthe advantage of the business aircraft. NowEurope and particularly Russia are buyinginto that message in a big way.

    As we enter 2007, it is against a backdropof excitement and optimism in the businessaircraft industry.

    Honeywell whose market forecast has setthe scene for the industry planning for thepast 15 years is describing 2007 as a banner

    1Business Aviationis facing a record year

    year. 2006 was already a record year but thePhoenix-headquartered company isprojecting 1,000 new aircraft to be deliveredin 2007 and 12,000 business jets over thenext ten years, generating industry sales ofUS$195 billion at todays prices.

    Honeywells Business Aviation Outlooktracks purchase expectations for businessjets with gross take-off weight (GTOW) ofless than 100,000lbs down to the entry leveljets. At this point the forecast does not takeinto account the new revolutionary VeryLight Jets (VLJ) that could be set to do whatHenry Ford did for the automobile industry.

    There is still a disconnect between manyin the industry and those revolutionariessuch as Eclipse Aviations Vern Raeburn whobelieve that affordable, mass-produced,small business jets will do more for SMEsthan the traditional business jets have donefor the larger corporations.

    Some manufacturers are adopting a waitand see approach. One industry analyst told methat this smacks of the same approach that theAmerican automobile industry had when itignored the entry of Japanese cars to its market.But behind the scenes the industry is working atcreating greater differentiation between thecategories or class of business aircraft travel.

    Business aviation will never be insulatedfrom economic cycles, but its clear thatmanufacturers help stimulate demand withnew models incorporating advances inaviation technology. Improved engines,safety systems, cockpit avionics and cabininformation and comfort improvementsalong with advances in aerodynamic designcan deliver compelling gains in value to fleetoperators, pilots and passengers.

    Honeywells forecast found that like the2005 survey findings, European operatorsreported a particularly strong increase inexpectations to purchase additional versusreplacement aircraft for their fleets, anindication of overall confidence amongoperators in the region.

    Outlook

  • 8 9

    RotorcraftHelicopter manufacturers have long realised that the businessand corporate market is worth investing time and effort in.The top-of-the range rotorcraft are fitted with cabins built tothe same quality and comfort as the best of the business jets.More and more charterers are looking at combining therotorcraft with fixed wing in their offering.This chapter looks at the whole range of corporate helicopterson the market.

    Sikorskys S92 is one of those top of the range helicoptersthat offer everything for a head-of-state aircraft. Artist Tim Hall. Flight International for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

    2

  • 11

    Rotorcraft

    10

    AGUSTAWESTLAND A109 POWER/GRAND

    THEPower is a lightweight twin enginemultipurpose helicopter capable ofsingle pilot IFR operation.

    The A109 has always been a fasthelicopter and the Power is no exception,able to cruise at 154ktas (285km/h) itfeatures retractable landing gear and twoengine choices.

    Two Pratt & Whitney PW206C provide640shp (477kW) each at take-off, oralternatively two Turbomeca Arrius 2K-1providing 670shp (500kW) each can befitted.

    The Grand, designated the A109S Grand,is a stretched Power offering an extra 8(20cm) in cabin length. The aircrafts MTOWhas also been boosted by 717lbs (325kg)and its useful load from 2,822lbs (1,280kg)to 3,373lbs (1,530kg).

    The Grand is powered by two Pratt &Whitney PW207C providing 735shp (548kW)each, and able to cruise at 155ktas (288km/h).

    However the increased payloads andmore powerful engines only allow it to fly arange of 480nm (890km) compared to the512nm (948km) of the Power.

    Length 37' 7" (fuselage) 42' 9" (rotors running) 11.45m / 13.04mMain Rotor Diameter 36' 1" 11mHeight 11' 6" 3.50mCabin Length 6' 10" 2.10mCabin Width 5' 3" 1.61mCabin Height 4' 2" 1.28mMax Range 512nm 948kmMax Seating 1 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 5Powperplant 2x P&W PW206C or 640SHP/477kW each (Take off Power)

    2x Turbomeca Arrius 2K-1 670SHP/500kW each (Take off power)Max Cruise Speed 154ktas 285km/hMax Ceiling 19,600ft 5,974mRate of Climb 1,930fpm 588mpmTake off Distance 0Landing Distance 0MTOW 6,283lbs 2,850kgMax Landing Weight 6,283lbs 2,850kgUseful load 2,822lbs 1,280kgPayload with full fuel 1,281lbs 581kgPrice

    SPECIFICATION

    HERITAGEThe first A109 flew in August 1971 poweredby two Allison 250-C20 turbines and sincethen has been upgraded for many missionspecific roles - the latest A109 is the A109EPower. The Power first flew in February1995 and was certified in August 1996,based on the A-109K-2, which wasdeveloped as a civilian police, search andrescue version, for high altitude and hightemperature operations. It also featuresstrengthened landing gear and improvedmain rotor.

    SPOTTERS GUIDE

    The A109 Power is very sleek, has a four blade main rotor with a single large cabin door andwindow each side and looks nearly identical to the Grand. However, it is shorter than the A109Grand but both have a curved scimitar look tail fin. An A109 can be recognised by the main gear the gear retracts into a pod which is mounted on the side of the fuselage and has a panel coveringthe main strut. The Grand has two windows on each side set in the cabin doors.

  • 13

    Rotorcraft

    12

    AGUSTAWESTLAND A119 KOALA

    THEA119 Koala is an eight seat singleturbine helicopter designed toprovide high productivity and performancewith one of the largest cabin widths in itsclass 5 6 (1.67m).

    Powered by the ultra reliable Pratt &Whitney PT6B-37A with 1,002shp (747kW)the Koala will lift 1,304lbs (591kg) with fullfuel and has a range of 535nm (991km).

    The Koala is capable of performingmany roles other than that of corporatetransport. It can be fitted with a doubleEMS stretcher interior, is also in service

    Length 38.48ft (fuselage) 42.68ft (rotors running) 11.73m/13.01mMain Rotor Diameter 35' 6" 10.83mHeight 12' 4" 3.77mCabin Length 6' 10" 2.10mCabin Width 5' 6" 1.67mCabin Height 4' 2" 1.28mMax Range 535nm 991kmMax Seating 1 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 6Powerplant 1x P&W PT6B-37A 1,002SHP / 747kW Max Cruise Speed 139KTAS 257km/hMax Ceiling >20,000ft >6,096mRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 5,997lbs 2,720kgMax Landing Weight 5,997lb 2,720kgUseful load 2,845lbs 1,293kgPayoad with full fuel 1,304lb 591kgPrice

    SPECIFICATION

    HERITAGEMore than 90 Koalas have been orderedworldwide. The Koala made its first flight in1995 powered by a Turbomeca Arriel 1, butwas subsequently replaced. Certificationwas awarded in 1998 and the first customerdelivery occurred in September 2000.

    SPOTTERS GUIDE

    The Koala has a large rectangular window on the cabin doors with a small oblong porthole behind,mounted on skids and features a four blade main rotor with the sleek lines found the A109 and likethe A109 features a curved scimitar look tail fin.

    with various police forces, and fire attacksystems are available.

    It is also possible to have emergency popout floats fitted to the skids for anyprolonged flights over water.

  • 15

    Rotorcraft

    14

    AGUSTAWESTLAND AW139

    THEAW139 is a 15 seat medium twin engine helicopter featuring a fully articulated fiveblade main rotor and retractable undercarriage. Powered by two Pratt & WhitneyPT6C-67C, 1,679shp (1,252kW) each, is able to cruise at 167ktas (310km/h) and lift 3,357lbs(1,522kg) which equates to 210lbs (95kg) of payload for each passenger in high densityconfiguration at full fuel for a range of 306nm (568km).

    The AW139 has the Honeywell Primus Epic fitted as standard and is certified for IFRoperations, a 4-axis autopilot is an option over the standard 3-axis.

    Length 54' 8" (rotors running) 16.66mMain Rotor Diameter 45' 3" 13.8mHeight 16' 3" 4.95mCabin Length 8' 10" 2.70mCabin Width 6' 10" 2.10mCabin Height 4' 8" 1.42mMax Range 306nm 568kmMax Seating 2 + 15Typical Seating 1 + 6Powperplant 2x P&W PT6C-67C 1,679SHP/1,252kW eachAvionics Honeywell Primus EpicMax Cruise Speed 167ktas 310km/hMax Ceiling 19,460ft 5,931mRate of Climb 2,140fpm 654mpmTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 14,112lbs 6,400kgMax Landing Weight 14,112lbs 6,400kgUseful load 6,124lbs 2,778kgPayload with full fuel 3,357lbs 1,522kgPrice

    SPECIFICATIONHERITAGE

    Originally developedas a joint venture withBell under thedesignation of AB139,but in November 2005Bell withdrew leavingthe Anglo-Italianmanufacturer tomarket the aircraftalone. AW139 firstflew in February 2001was certified in Italyin June 2003 and FAAcertification wasawarded in December2004. AgustaWestlandhas orders for 190helicopters of which30 have beendelivered at the timeof going to press.

    BELL/AGUSTA AB139 SPOTTERS GUIDE

    AW139 has a five blade main rotor, a four blade canted tail rotor and features three cabin windowseach side, of which two are on the large sliding cabin doors. The retractable undercarriage is podmounted on the fuselage, and the rear tailplane has winglets.

  • 16

    AGUSTAWESTLAND EH101 MERLIN

    17

    Rotorcraft

    THEEH101 Merlin was primarily designedas a military helicopter but followingcertification by the FAA for civil useAgustaWestland is offering the aircraft for VIPor business shuttle operations. The aircraft under the designation US101 has beenselected as the US Presidential helicopter.

    This is a heavy three engine helicopter ableto seat 30 passengers in a high densityconfiguration while a corporate interior iscustom designed upon purchase with a typicalinstallation seating fourteen passengers.

    The Merlin is powered by three GeneralElectric CT7-8Es producing 2,527SHP(1,884kW) each and allow a maximum take-off weight of 34,392lbs (15,600kg) with auseful load of 11,905lbs (5,600kg).

    The EH101 has retractable tricycleundercarriage the main gear stows in podsmounted externally on the fuselage, with a fiveblade composite main rotor it is capable of amaximum cruise speed of 150ktas (278km/h).

    HERITAGEThe EH101 was a new design and a jointventure from Agusta and Westland beforethey merged originally the company wascalled Elicottero Helicopter Industries andthe EH101 designation was apparently atypographical error from EHI-01. The first civil configured EH101 first flew inSeptember 1988, whilst the first productionaircraft destined for Britains Royal Navy -first flew in December 1995. Presentlyover 100 have been delivered.

    SPOTTERS GUIDEThe EH101 can be recognised from the threeengines which are mounted on top of thefuselage the exhausts of the left and rightengines angle down and outwards, whilstthe central exhaust is straight. The mainrotor has five blades and the tips are sweptwith anhedral. It has a four blade tail rotormounted on the left hand side of the tail.

    Length 64' (fuselage) 74 10 (rotors running) 19.53m/22.80mMain Rotor Diameter 61' 18.60mHeight 21 9 6.62mCabin Length 21 4 6.50mCabin Width 8 2 2.49mCabin Height 6 1.83mMax Range 540nm 1,000kmMax Seating 2 + 30Typical Seating 2 + 14Powerplant 3x GE CT7-8E 2,527SHP/1,884kW eachMax Cruise Speed 150KTAS 278km/hMax CeilingRate of Climb 2,788fpm 852mpmTake off Distance xLanding Distance xMTOW 34,392lbs 15,600kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 11,905lbs 5,600kgPayload with full fuelPrice

    SPECIFICATION

  • 19

    Rotorcraft

    18

    BELL 206B-3 JETRANGER

    THEBell JetRanger is one of thebest selling and successfulhelicopters in the world. As well asbeing a ubiquitous charter helicopter,the JetRanger has been widelyrecognised as the key entry levelsingle engine turbine helicopter.

    It is a five seat aircraft with athree seat bench in the rearpassenger cabin and seating for apilot and co-pilot/passenger in thecockpit.

    Powered by a single Rolls-Royce250-C20J 420shp (313kW) theJetRanger has a useful load of1,487lbs (674kg) and is able to cruiseat a maximum speed of 115ktas(213km/h) for 374nm (693km).

    HERITAGEThe 206 design originated in the mid-1960s asan entry in a United States Army competition fora light observation (scout) helicopter. This first Model 206 made its first flight onDecember 8 1962. The civil variant the 206A,powered by a 317shp (235kW) Allison C18A,first flew in January 1966. Although Bell lost the contract, the Model 206A

    JetRanger entered the civilian market in 1966.The Model 206 has been updated several times,with the 206B "JetRanger II" arriving in 1971 andthe 206B-3 "JetRanger III" with modified tailrotor and more powerful engine coming in 1977. The basic shape and fundamental design remainunchanged since 1966. Over 7,700 military and civil JetRangers havebeen built and have logged in excess of38million flight hours.

    Length 32' 5" (fuselage) 39' 2" (running) 9.88m / 11.95mMain Rotor Diameter 33' 5" 10.18mHeight 8' 4" 2.53mCabin Length 3' 3" 0.99mCabin Width 3' 11" 1.2mCabin Height 4' 3" 1.30mMax Range 374nm 693k/mhMax Seating 1 + 4Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x Rolls-Royce 250-C20J 420shp/313kW Max Cruise Speed 115ktas 213km/hMax Ceiling 13,200ft 4,023mRate of Climb 1,350fpm 411mpmTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 3,200lbs 1,451kgMax Landing Weight 3,200lbs 1,451kgUseful load 1,487lbs 674kgPayload with full fuel 877lbs 398kgPrice

    SPECIFICATION

    The JetRanger has atwo bladed main andtail rotor. The mainrotor is mounted on aprominent mast. Theskid landing gear canbe of low or high stepdesign. The enginehas two exhaustswhich are mountedvertically behind themain rotor mast witha 90 bend to face therear. It has a largewindow each side onthe cabin doors and ahorizontal stabiliser ismid-mounted halfwayalong the tailboom.

    SPOTTERS GUIDE

  • 21

    Rotorcraft

    20

    BELL 206L4 LONGRANGER

    THEstretched cabin of the BellLongRanger can seat five passengers, a pilot and co-pilot/passenger, and is increasinglypopular with helicopter chartercompanies.

    Powered by a single Rolls-Royce250-C30P providing 726shp (541kW) itis effectively a stretched JetRangeroffering two extra seats. It has a usefulload of 2,141lbs (971kg) and a range of357nm (661km) and a maximum cruisespeed of 112ktas (207km/h).

    It offers a longer cabin than theJetRanger 8 6 (2.59m) with clubseating for five.

    HERITAGEThe 206L was developed from the 5 seat JetRanger.The first 206L flew in September 1974, andproduction began in early 1975. The LongRangerintroduced a more powerful engine and atransmission suspension system for greaterpassenger comfort.

    SPOTTERS GUIDEThe LongRanger is a stretched JetRanger but isnoticeably different by the engine exhaust a largeoval single exhaust replaces the two smaller of theJetRanger, and its increased length. The addedlength allows for two windows either side. It hasvertical fins of winglet type style on the midmounted horizontal stabilisers.

    Length 34' 7" (fuselage) 42' 5" (rotor running) 10.55m / 12.92mMain Rotor Diameter 39' 11.89mHeight 10' 3.04mCabin Length 5 1.5mCabin Width 3' 11 1.2mCabin Height 3' 11 1.2mMax Range 357nm 661kmMax Seating 1 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x Rolls-Royce 250-C30P 726shp/541kWMax Cruise Speed 112ktas 207km/hMax Ceiling 10,000ft 3,048m +Rate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 4,450lbs 2,018kgMax Landing Weight 4,450lbs 2.018kgUseful load 2,141lbs 971kgPayload with full fuel 1,388lbs 629kgPrice

    SPECIFICATION

  • 23

    Rotorcraft

    22

    BELL 407

    THE407 is a light single turbineengine helicopter capable ofseating seven passengers.

    Powered by a FADEC equipped Rolls-Royce 250-C47B producing 813shp(606kW) it can cruise at a maximum speedof 133ktas (246km/h).

    The Bell 407 can lift a useful load of2,347lbs (1,065kg) even with full fuel theremaining payload (1,784lbs 810kg)would allow all seven seats to be filled andgive a 254lb (115kg) allowance per seat.

    The Bell 407 is able to cover 330nm(612km) and transport the occupants in a5 (1.5m) long and 3 11 (1.2m) wide cabinin club configuration this represents anextra 1 9 (0.51m) in cabin length over theJetRanger.

    Typically it would carry the pilot andfour or five passengers.

    HERITAGEThe 407 is an evolutionary development ofthe 206 LongRanger it first flew in 1995.The 407 concept demonstrator mated theLongRanger's fuselage with the tail boomand the dynamic systems of the OH58DKiowa (military 206 which has beenextensively modified) primarily because ofthe composite four blade main rotor systemwhich provides a smoother ride andgenerates more lift efficiently.A successor, The Bell 417, is currently underdevelopment in the USA. Featuring a Cheltonglass cockpit the new derivative is duecertification early in 2008.

    SPOTTERS GUIDEVery similar to the JetRanger and LongRangeraircraft but the most recognisable differencesare the four bladed main rotor blades and theswept vertical fins on the horizontal stabilisers.

    Length 34 8" (fuselage) 41' 5"(rotor running) 10.57m/12.61mMain Rotor Diameter 35 10.66mHeight 10' 2" 3.10mCabin Length 5 1.5mCabin Width 3' 11 1.2mCabin Height 3' 11 1.2mMax Range 330nm 612kmMax Seating 1 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x Rolls-Royce 250-C47B 813shp/606kWMax Cruise Speed 133ktas 246km/hMax Ceiling 17,600ft 5,364mRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 5,000lbs 2,268kgMax Landing Weight 5,000lbs 2,268kgUseful Load 2,347lbs 1,065kgPayload with full fuel 1,784lbs 810kgPrice $1.52m 1.18m

    SPECIFICATION

  • 25

    Rotorcraft

    24

    BELL 412EP

    RENOWNED for working in extremeconditions, the Bell 412EP hasenjoyed business success in the high altitude of theHimalayas and the searing sand swept heat of theArabian Gulf. The Bell 412 is a medium twin enginehelicopter, fitted with a single Pratt & Whitney PT6T-3DTwin Pac essentially two PT6 engines combined - and isdriven through a single gearbox, but still maintains theadded safety of the two engines being able to operateindependently.

    This Twin Pac produces 1,800shp (1,342kW) and give amaximum cruise speed of 122ktas (226km/h). The four blade

    SPOTTERS GUIDEThe 412 is a four bladed upgradeof the classic Huey, with theengines mounted on top of thefuselage. The cabin has threewindows either side with thelarge sliding doors featuring twoeach, the tail rotor is mountedon the right hand side of the tailand is two bladed.

    Length 43' 4" (fuselage) 56' 2" (rotors running) 12.91m/17.13mMain Rotor Diameter 46 14.02mHeight 14' 11" 4.54mCabin Length 11' 4" 3.45mCabin Width 8 2.44mCabin Height 4' 1" 1.25mMax Range 356nm 659kmMax Seating 1 + 14Typical Seating 1 + 7Powerplant 1x P&W PT6T-3D Twin Pac 1,800SHP/1,342kWMax Cruise Speed 122ktas 226km/hMax CeilingRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 11,900lbs 5,398kgMax Landing Weight 11,900lbsUseful Load 5,055lbs 2,293kgPayload with full fuel 2,807lbs 1,276kgPrice

    SPECIFICATION

    HERITAGEThe 412 is a development of the212 and began in the late1970s. The 212 was adevelopment from the venerableUH-1 Huey/205. The first 412flew in August 1979, and the412 was awarded VFRcertification in January 1981.That same month the firstdelivery occurred. Subsequentdevelopments and upgrades ledto the 412SP, SpecialPerformance, the 412HP, HighPerformance and to thecurrently produced 412EP,Enhanced Performance.

    rotor is smaller in diameter than itstwo bladed predecessor, providingmore efficiency and a reduction innoise.

    The 412 is able to seatthirteen passengers in thestandard configuration -however a typical corporateinterior may seat seven. A usefulload of 5,055lbs (2,293kg) doesallow all passenger seats to befilled and it is still able to fly itsmaximum range of 356nm(659km).

  • 27

    Rotorcraft

    26

    BELL 427

    THEBell 427 is an eight place twinengine light helicopterdesigned as a replacement for the 206LT TwinRanger. Powered by twinFADEC Pratt & Whitney PW207Dsproducing 550shp (410kW) each,enables it to cruise at a maximumspeed of 138ktas (256km/h).

    It features the same composite huband rotor system used on the Bell 407 andthe OH-58D Kiowa - the main rotors arefour bladed and constructed fromfibreglass and nomex honeycombcomposite with a stainless steel leadingedge abrasion strip, the tail rotor uses afibreglass composite and also has astainless steel leading edge abrasion strip.

    The airframe makes high use ofcomposites throughout the structure inparticular the fairings found on top of thefuselage housing the engines. It is able tofly a range of 390nm (722km) with fourpassengers and full fuel under VFRconditions and has a useful load of2,469lbs (1,120kg).

    Length 42' 7" (rotors running) 36' 6" (fuselage) 12.98m / 11.13mMain Rotor Diameter 37' 11.28,Height 10' 6" 3.2mCabin Length 5.2' 1.57mCabin Width 4' 1.23mCabin Height 4' 3' 1.3mMax Range 390nm 722kmMax Seating 2 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 4Powperplant 2x P&W PW207D 550shp/410kW eachMax Cruise Speed 138ktas 256km/hMax Ceiling 10,000ft 3,048mRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 6,350lbs 2,880kgMax Landing Weight 6,350lbs 2,880kgUseful load 2,469lbs 1,120kgPayload with full fuel 1,085lbs 492kgPrice $2.49m 1.74

    SPECIFICATION

    HERITAGEBell had originally planned to develop a twinengine version of the 407, however this wasscrubbed due to payload/range issues and with the427 an all new design was created. It is the firstBell designed civil helicopter using only CAD(Computer Aided Design) and was developedthrough a collaborative agreement with SamsungAerospace Industries of South Korea. First flightwas on December 11, 1997 and Canadiancertification was awarded on November 19, 1999.First customer deliveries followed US certificationin January 2000. US FAA dual pilot IFR certificationwas awarded in May 2000.

    SPOTTERS GUIDEThe 427 has a four bladed main rotor and a twobladed tail rotor. The tail rotor is mounted to theport side of the aircraft. The engines are mounted on top of the fuselage inan aerodynamically friendly fairing with two largestraight exhausts exiting the rear. It can be equipped with either high or low skids.The main cabin windows are rectangular and areslightly shorter in length than the door, with therearmost window almost being triangular.

  • 29

    Rotorcraft

    28

    BELL 429 GLOBALRANGERIN

    DEVE

    LOPM

    ENT

    THIS is the first Bell helicopter totake advantage of thecompany's future modular affordableproduct line (MAPL). It incorporates 10 ofthe 13 technologies that are beingdeveloped under the MAPL initiative, whichincludes the MAPL Cabin which will seatseven in the 429 but can be deplugged toreduce seating.

    The MAPL initiative aims to reduce costand increase productivity by retaining highlevels of commonality and will include bothsingle and twin engine helicopters.

    The 429 will also introduce a new typeof tail rotor, an X-type which is made up oftwo 407 two blade rotors with swept tips,by increasing the blade count the tail rotorcan turn at a reduced rpm, therebyreducing noise.

    It will also feature a new four blade

    composite main rotor with new aerodynamicsand a two piece supercritical tail rotordriveshaft which will eliminate the need forhanger bearings.

    The 429 essentially comes in twovariants, a corporate version whichincludes retractable undercarriage and anEMS (Emergency Medical Service) versionon skids.

    It is able to lift a useful load of 2,700lbs(1,225kg) and cruise at 142ktas (264km/h).

    HERITAGEFirst flight for this hybrid of the 427 with theMAPL technologies was imminent as thisbook went to press, with Canadian and UScertification expected in the second half of2007. European certification is set to followwithin twelve months. First deliveries arescheduled for late 2007 and at present 195are on order.

    The Bell 429Corporatefeaturesretractableundercarriageand has twocabin windowseach side. Themain rotor hasfour blades andit features an X-type tail rotor.The engines aremounted abovethe passengercabin in anaerodynamicfairing.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE Length 39' 11" (fuselage) 12.17m

    Main Rotor DiameterHeight 13' 3" 4.04mCabin LengthCabin WidthCabin HeightMax Range 312nm 577kmMax Seating 1 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 6Powperplant 2x P&W PW207D 710shp/529kW eachMax Cruise Speed 142ktas 264km/hMax CeilingRate of ClimbTake off DistanceLanding DistanceMTOW 7,000lbs 3,175kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 2,700lbs 1,225kgPayload with full fuel 1,260lbs 572kgPrice $3.95m 3.08m

    SPECIFICATION

  • 31

    Rotorcraft

    30

    BELL 430

    DISTANCE is no object for Bellsmedium twin engine430 having achieved notoriety some 10 yearsago when it broke the helicopter record for around-the-world flight. The aircraft is alsovery effective in its business or corporate role.

    The 430 has seats for up to eightpassengers. It is available with skids(standard) or retractable gear both haveadvantages and disadvantages. On skidsthe 430 is capable of 353nm (654km) at amaximum cruise speed of 139ktas(258km/h) with wheels it is able to cruise4kts (7km/h) faster at 143ktas (265km/h) fora range of 275nm (510km).

    The 430 is powered by two FADEC equippedRolls-Royce 250-C40Bs producing 747shp(557kW) each for take off and rated for thesame power should there be an engine failure.

    The 430 can carry eight passengers in thestandard high density configuration with auseful load 3,964lbs (1,800kgs). When fullyfuelled it can still lift 2,359lbs (1,072kg) whichdoes allow all ten seats to be filled with atouch under 254lbs (115kg) payload per seat.

    HERITAGEThe 430 was developed from the 230 andformally launched in February 1992. It firstflew in October 1994, the 230 was based on the222 but incorporated more powerful engines.The 430 was created by stretching the fuselageto allow an extra seating row, upgrading toeven more powerful engines, installing a fourbladed main rotor and skids as standard withan optional wheel kit. The first 430 productionaircraft was completed in 1995, while Canadiancertification was awarded on February 231996, allowing first deliveries from mid thatyear. Meanwhile 230 production wound up inAugust 1995, making way for the 430. Theoriginal 222 was made famous by its use as thefictional Airwolf in the 1980s TV series.

    SPOTTERS GUIDERetaining the same shape and lines of the222, both the models with skids and withwheels have the signature pods mounted onthe fuselage, with straight exhausts andthree passenger windows each side. Whenfitted with wheels, the fuselage pods act asthe housing for retraction. It has a fourbladed main rotor, with the two bladed tailrotor mounted on the left side of the tail.

    Length 44 (fuselage) 50.3 (rotors running) 13.42m/15.34mMain Rotor Diameter 42 12.80mHeight 13.3 4.04mCabin Length 8 1 2.46mCabin Width 4 6 1.37mCabin Height 4 3 1.3mMax Range 353nm 654kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 2 + 4-6Powerplant 2x Rolls-Royce 250-C40B 747shp/557Kw eachMax Cruise Speed 139ktas 258km/hMax Ceiling 16,180ft 4,932mRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 9,300lbs 4,218kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 3,964lbs 1,800kgPayload with full fuel 2,359lbs 1,072kgPrice $4.89m 3.82* with skids

    SPECIFICATION*

  • 32

    BELL/AGUSTA BA609

    IN DE

    VELO

    PMEN

    T

    Length 44 13.31mWingspan/Rotor Diameter 26 7.93mHeight 15 4.50mCabin LengthCabin WidthCabin HeightMax Range 750nm 1,389kmMax Seating 2 + 9Typical Seating 1 + 6Powperplant 2x P&W PT6C-67A 1,679SHP/1,252kW eachMax Cruise Speed 275 KTAS 509 km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,550mRate of ClimbTake off DistanceLanding DistanceMTOW 16,800lbs 7,631kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 5,512lbs 2,500kgPayload with full fuelPrice

    SPECIFICATION

    With engineson thewingtipsconnected tolarge 3 bladerotors and aT-tail theBA609 is aunique give-away.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE

  • 55

    Pistons3

    54

    While there are literally hundreds of twinpiston engine aircraft types in operationthere are few that really work as businessaircraft that are still in production today.Adam Aircrafts A500, newly certified in 2006is a six-place, pressurized, center-line thrust,carbon composite aircraft bringing the newesttechnology to this segment of the market. At the same time Beechcraft is continuallyimproving on its best-selling Baron, 45 yearsafter the aircraft was first launched.

    The Piper Seneca is a mainstay in early air taxi businessesand can be seen at business airfields all around the world.ARTIST: Ira Epton Flight International for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

  • 57

    Pistons

    ADAMAircraft delivered the firstcustomer A500 in November2005 and through 2006 has been deliveringone aircraft a quarter with plans to stepup to six per month.

    The all-composite, centreline-thrustpiston twin is the first all-new corporatepiston aircraft since the Piper Mojaveceased production in the 1980s.

    In 2006 the company introduced somedesign changes from the originalprovisional certification of May 2005including Night, IFR, Pressurization, andother cabin features

    The A500 was originally scheduled forcertification in mid-2003, but despite thedelay Adam says it holds 80 firm orders forthe aircraft.

    The aircrafts inline engine configurationbreaks with tradition and sets the A500apart from the vast majority of other pistonengine types.

    The aircraft is the first corporate piston twin to be certified in 20 years. The design by Bert Rutan (V-Jet, Defiant and round-the-world Voyager) follows a tradition set bythe experimental, WWII German Dornier 335 fighter, and the semi-successful family of Cessnamodel 336/337 Skymasters but is the first aircraft from the Adam stable which itself was onlyformed in 1998.

    HERITAGE

    There can be no mistaking the outline of theAdam A500 with its straight low wings with aslight dihedral on the outboard panels. The push-pull engines and the distinctivetwin boom tail with swept fins connected bya high-set tailplane.

    SPOTTERS GUIDE

    56

    ADAM AIRCRAFT A500

    Length 36 7 11.19mWingspan 44 13.41mHeight 9 6 2.89mCabin Length* 13 7 4.14mCabin Width 4 6 1.37mCabin Height 4 4 1.31mMax Range (3) 1,130nm 2,130kmMax Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 2x Continental TSIO-550 350BHP/261kW eachAvionics 3 panel Avidyne EFIS with Garmin GNS430Max Cruise Speed 230KTAS 426km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,368fpm 417mpmTake off Distance 2,471ft 753mLanding Distance 2,471ft 753mMTOW 7,000lb 3,175kgMax Landing Weight N/AUseful load 1,890lb 857kgPayload with full fuel 600lb 272kgPrice $1.2m 0.94m* includes cockpit

    SPECIFICATION

    NEW

  • 59

    Pistons

    BEECHRAFTStwin-enginedBaron has been described as the ultimatepiston-powered aircraft with its 200ktas(370kmh) cruise speed and rangeexceeding 1500nm.

    The Baron built by Raytheon AircraftCompany in Wichita, Kansas nowfeatures the Garmin G1000 avionics suitevery firmly putting the businessmanowner-pilot on the first rung of businessaircraft ownership or operation.

    The six-seater aircraft has a passengercabin with four facing club seats and adouble door which gives easy access to the

    cabin. With a choice of leather seats,mahogany tables and fashionable fabrics itbecomes clear how the Baron hasoutlasted the competitor twins over thepast 45 years.

    HERITAGEMore than 6,000 Beechcraft Barons and18,000 of the single engine sibling Bonanzashave been built and delivered since the linebegan production in 1947. The current G58Baron can trace its roots back to the B95Travel Air (Beech's first light twin, whichfirst flew in August 1956). The Baron madeits first flight on February 29 1960 andbegan deliveries the following year.

    58

    BEECHCRAFT BARON

    The twin-engines withthree-bladepropellers siton the low,straighttapered wing.There are fourwindows oneach side anda swepttailfin withlow-settailplane andretractabletricyclelanding gear.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE Length 29 10 9.09m

    Wingspan 37 10 11.53mHeight 9 9 2.97mCabin Length 12 7 3.84mCabin Width 3 6 1.07mCabin Height 4 2 1.27mMax Range Max Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 2x Teledyne Continental IO-550-C 300HP/223kW eachAvionics Garmin G1000Max Cruise Speed 202ktas 374km/hMax Ceiling 20,688ft 6,305mRate of Climb 1,700fpm 518mpmTake off Distance 2,300ft 701mLanding Distance 1,300ft 396mMTOW 5,500lbs 2,495kgMax Landing Weight 5,400lbs 2,449kgUseful load 1,578lbs 716kgPayload with full fuel 414lbs 188kgPrice $1.22m 0.95m

    SPECIFICATION

  • 61

    Pistons

    CHARTER operators the worldover, operating insmall fields with basic air taxi or smalltransport operations, have relied for manyyears on the Seneca.

    This is the most successful six placelight twin since its introduction as a twinengine development of the Cherokee Six.

    The aircraft has six places and typicallyflies single pilot with up to four passengersin the twin facing club seats.

    The current PA-34-220T Seneca V wasintroduced in January 1997.

    It features intercooled turbochargedL/TSIO-360-RB engines which power theaircraft to 25,000 ft and a range in excessof 800nm.

    HERITAGEThe Seneca is a derivative of the CherokeeSix first flown in October 1969 with fuelinjected 200hp (150kW) IO-360s. Production deliveries of the initial PA-34-200 Seneca began in late 1971. The aircraft has been built under licensearound the world. The current Seneca V has an upgradedinterior and the turbocharged TeledyneContinental engines.

    SPOTTERS GUIDEEasily recognised by its solid low straightwings with leading edge rubber icing boots.It has a swept tailfin and low set tailplanewith four windows on the side.

    60

    PIPER SENECA V

    Length 28 7 8.7mWingspan 39 11 11.9mHeight 9 11 3.0mCabin Length* 10 4 3.15mCabin Width 4 1 1.23mCabin Height 3 6 1.06mMax Range 828nm 1,533kmMax Seating 2 + 4Typical Seating 2 + 4Powerplant 2x TeledyneContinental L/TSIO-360-RB 220HP/164kWMax Cruise Speed 182ktas 337km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 1,707ft 520mLanding Distance 2,180ft 664mMTOW 4,750lbs 2,155kgMax Landing Weight 4,513lbs 2,047kgUseful load 1,367lbs 620kgPayload with full fuel 627lbs 285kgPrice $0.735m 0.573m

    SPECIFICATION

  • Turboprops4

    62 63

    Offering reduced fuel costs but with cabins to match the businessjets there has been a resurgence of interest in the turbopropcategory. These aircraft range from the workhorses of any charterfleet such as the King Air C90 GT or the Cessna Caravan wherethere is a requirement to operate passengers or cargo to remote ordifficult environments through to the top-of-the range models suchas the Piaggio Avanti and the Pilatus PC-12

    The single engine Pilatus PC-12 can operate as a smallairliner, a corporate aircraft or a combi passenger-freighter -it is highly versatile and can operate on unprepared strips.Artists: Tim Hall and David Hatchard Flight International for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

  • 64

    BEECHCRAFT 1900D

    Length 57' 10" 17.62mWingspan 57' 11" 17.64mHeight 15' 6" 4.72mCabin Length 25 3 7.69mCabin Width 4 6 1.37mCabin Height 5 11 1.80mMax Range (19) 527nm 975kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2 + 12Powerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-67D 1,279SHP/953kW eachAvionics 4-Tube Collins EFIS 84 & Pro Line II radioMax Cruise Speed 280ktas 518km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 2,615fpm 797mpmTake off Distance 3,813ft 1,162mLanding Distance 2,790ft 850mMTOW 17,120lbs 7,766kgMax Landing Weight 16,765lbs 7,605kgUseful load 6,440lbs 2,921kgPayload with full fuel 1,982lbs 899kgPrice (1999) $3.4m 2.65

    SPECIFICATION

    The most obviouschange from theKing Air 200 to the1900D is thesubstantiallystretched fuselage(17.63m/57ft 10incompared to13.34m/43ft 9in).Other things to lookat are the modifiedswept fin andtailplane with theaddition of tailets,and stabilons oneach side of thelower rear fuselage.There are eightwindows on eachside.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE

  • 65

    Turboprops

    LOWcost corporate shuttlerequirements have seenresurgence of interest in the Beechcraft1900D.

    The 19-seater regional airliner aproduct of the 1980s has included acorporate version named the ExecLiner.

    Although no longer in production,Raytheon Aircraft Company have brought

    the 1900D to air shows to stimulatedemand. In its airliner configuration theinterior features single forward facingseats separated by a narrow aisle, but incorporate shuttle it can reduce to 12 seatsin blocks of club seating.

    The Beechcraft 1900D has a range justshort of 1500nm and cruises at 283ktas(525 km/h)

    HERITAGEThe Beechcraft1900D wasdeveloped fromthe Beech 99commuter airliner,itself a derivativeof the King Air200 turboprop.Cockpit controlsand operations aresimilar to the King Air.Development ofthe 1900 began in1979, with firstflight occurring onSeptember 3 1982.US FAAcertification wasawarded inNovember 1983,prior to the1900C's entry into service inFebruary thefollowing year.The first ExecLinercorporatetransport versionwas delivered inmid 1985.Production endedin 2004 with finaldelivery in 2005.

  • 66

    BEECHCRAFT KING AIR B200

    67

    Turboprops

    ABILITYto handle difficultconditions as well asbeing a pilots dream to fly the King AirB200 has found favour as a businessaircraft and for military applications ortraining purposes. B200s routinely fly fromunimproved airstrips that are off-limits tomany other aircraft. High-flotation landinggear allows operators to fly withconfidence, even into unimproved airstrips.

    It delivers 289ktas (535km/h) cruisespeed at 25,000ft and has a range of1,825nm (3,380km). The aircraft has alanding run of just 1,759ft (536m) and take off run of 1,860ft (567m), which addsto that access to small remote airfields.

    For the passengers, the B200 features acomfortable and roomy squared-ovalpressurized and air-conditioned cabin. Itcan be configured with seven or nineseats. The rear cabin door is equipped withairstairs. Up front The King Air B200 isroomier than most business jets and isnow being offered with the RockwellCollins Pro Line 21 avionics suite asstandard equipment.

    HERITAGEThe Super King Air 200 aircraft waslaunched in October 1970 and first flew in1972. The design of the Super King Air B200derivative began in 1980 with first deliveryin March 2001. The "Super" was droppedfrom the name in 1996 and the aircraftbecame known as the King Air B200. Sincefirst entering service in 1981 almost 3,000King Air B200 aircraft have been delivered.

    The B200 hasa low straightwing P&WCPT6-A enginesmounted onthem to powerthe two fourbladepropellers. Theaircraft hasfive mainwindows oneach side witha smallwindow to therear by theswept T-tailwith dorsal finand swepttailplane.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE Length 43 10 13.36m

    Wingspan 54 6 16.61mHeight 14 10 4.52mCabin Length 16 8 5.08mCabin Width 4 6 1.37mCabin Height 4 9 1.45mMax Range (4) 1,407nm 2,606kmMax Seating 1 + 15Typical Seating 1 + 7Powperplant 2x P&WC PT6A-42 850SHP/634kWeachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed 289ktas 535km/hMax Ceiling 35,000ft 10,668mRate of Climb 2,460fpm 750mpmTake off Distance 2,600ft 792mpmLanding Distance 2,845ft 867mpmMTOW 12,500lbs 5,670kgMax Landing Weight 12,500lbs 5,670kgUseful load 4,060lbs 1,842kgPayload with full fuel 415lbs 188kgPrice $5.08m 3.96m

    SPECIFICATION

  • 68

    BEECHCRAFT KING AIR C90GT

    69

    Turboprops

    LIKEits closest competitor thePiaggio Avanti the King Airseries built now by Raytheon AircraftCompany (RAC) is built for business ratherthan private usage.

    Conscious of the potential demandfrom the Ultra light jets (ULJ) and VeryLight jets (VLJ), RAC responded with thisnew baby King Air as a direct derivativeof the original King Air 90 launched morethan 40 years ago.

    The C90GT features enhanced GTperformance from the Pratt & WhitneyCanada PT6A-135 and is designed to attackthe ULJ market through its offer of a largercabin than most of the small jets andperformance that would complete a typicalmission just minutes behind a jet.

    The C90GT airframe is the same basic

    size as the original King Air with four tofive passenger seats and the roomysquared-oval cabin shape although it canbe configured for up to seven passengers.

    It has a heated and pressurized baggagestorage area which is easily accessedduring flight.

    There is also a fully enclosed lavatory.

    The King Air 90series differsfrom its largersiblingsthrough aconventionaland low settail (the largerKing Airs haveT-tails). There are fourmain cabinwindows oneach side. TheP&WCengines, withfour-bladepropellers aremounted onthe wings.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE Length 35 6 10.82m

    Wingspan 50 3 15.32mHeight 14 3 4.34mCabin Length 12 7 3.84mCabin Width 4 6 1.37mCabin Height 4 9 1.45mMax Range (4) 831nm 1,539kmMax Seating 1 + 12Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-135A 2x 550SHP/410kW eachAvionics Collins EFIS displays Pro Line II radiosMax Cruise Speed 270ktas 500km/hMax Ceiling 30,000ft 9,144mRate of Climb 1,953fpm 595mpmTake off Distance 2,392ft 729mLanding Distance 2,355ft 717mMTOW 10,100lbs 4,581kgMax Landing Weight 9,600lbs 4,354kgUseful load 3,010lbs 1,365kgPayload with full fuel 437lbs 198kgPrice $2.95m 2.30m

    SPECIFICATION

    HERITAGEKing Airs have been built since 1964 whenthe first King Air 90 a derivative of theBeechcraft Queen Air first flew. The newKing Air C90GT certified in December 2005features a 26ktas increase in max cruisespeed, a 50-percent time-to-climb reductionand shorter take off distances at all fieldelevations compared to the King Air C90Bthat it replaces. It also needs just 22minutes to reach its FL300 ceiling.

  • 70

    BEECHCRAFT KING AIR 350

    71

    Turboprops

    WITHnine seats in its business configuration, the stretched King Air 350 can still beflown single pilot for private work. The aircraft has also been certified forcommuter or corporate shuttle work with up to 11 passengers and two crew.

    With the addition of the advanced Collins ProLine 21 avionics there is a high level offlight management. Again, this turboprop can compete in performance with many of thejets but has proven very cost effective for the many operators using this aircraft worldwide.

    The aircraft cruises at 312ktas (578 km/h) with a ceiling of 35,000ft.

    Length 46 8 14.22mWingspan 14 4 4.37mHeight 57 11 17.65mCabin Length 19 6 5.94mCabin Width 4 6 1.37mCabin Height 4 9 1.45mMax Range (4) 1,545nm 2,861kmMax Seating 1 + 15Typical Seating 1 + 9Powerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-60 1,050SHP/783kW eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed 312ktas 578km/hMax Ceiling 35,000ft 10,668mRate of Climb 2,731fpm 832mpmTake off Distance 3,300ft 1,006mLanding Distance 2,692ft 821mMTOW 15,000lbs 6,804kgMax Landing Weight 15,000lbs 6,804kgUseful load 5,400lbs 2,449kgPayload with full fuel 1,789lbs 811kgPrice $5.97m 4.65m

    SPECIFICATION

    BEECH KINGAIR SPOTTERS GUIDE

    The most marked difference between the King Air 350 and its predecessor the 300 , is a stretchedfuselage lengthened by 86cm (2ft 10in) and the addition of winglets. The winglets also separate the350 from the B200. There are seven cabin windows plus a window on a cargo door and the King Airtrademark window aft. Like the B200 there is a swept T-tail with dorsal fin and swept tailplane.

    The King Air 350is a stretch ofthe 300 serieswhich first flewin October 1982 itself animprovedderivative of theB200. The 350first flew inSeptember 1988and wascertified inMarch 1990.

    HERITAGE

  • 73

    Turboprops

    72

    BN-2T ISLANDER

    ACCORDING to BrittenNorman CEOWilliam Hynett, the BN2T Islander is the nextbest thing to having a helicopter when youneed short field operations in windy conditions.

    Adaptable, versatile and durable, it hasan unsurpassed record of solvingtransportation problems simply andeconomically in some of the world'sharshest environments. It also works well inthe more benign environments such as theCaribbean islands, the South Pacific andScottish Highlands.

    In conjunction with the Australian interiormanufacturer Aero Plastics & Interiors,

    Britten-Norman is now able to offer a rangeof customised interiors for the Islander.

    Options include additional windows, trimto match the interior colour scheme andthe new executive interior with club seatingarrangement and an executive table.

    In addition to the twin Rolls-Royce(Allison) 250 B17C series Turboprop thereare a 300HP and a 260HP Lycoming versionof the Islander available.

    Exceptional low-speed and single-enginehandling, fixed undercarriage and Highground clearance for propeller minimisesdamage from debris and makes this anaircraft you can take virtually anywhere.

    HERITAGEDesign of the Islander started in 1963 andthe first prototype BN-2 first flew on 13 June1965,. The first production Islander firstflew on 24 April 1967. More than 1250 of thetype have been delivered over the 40 yearsof production with the ownership of themanufacturer changing hands a number oftimes. The aircraft are built in the UK on theIsle of Wight.

    SPOTTERS GUIDEThe Islander has a straight high wing with aflared wingtip. The Rolls-Royce Allisonturboprop engines are mounted below eachwing. There is a swept tail fin and a low setstraight tailplane. It features non-retractablelanding gear with the main leg mounted aftof the rear wing spar. There are three largewindows on either side with the middlewindow having a diagonal cut to the rear.

    Length 35' 8" 10.9mWingspan 49' 14.9mHeight 14' 6" 4.4mCabin Length 15' 2" 4.6mCabin Width 3' 6" 1.1mCabin Height 4' 2" 1.3mMax Range 590nm 1,093kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 2x Rolls-Royce Allison 250-B17C 320SHP/238kW eachMax Cruise Speed 170ktas 315km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,622mRate of Climb 1,050fpm 318mpmTake off Distance 1,250ft 381mLanding Distance 1,110ft 338mMTOW 7,000lb 3,175kgMax Landing Weight 6,800lb 3,084kgUseful load 2,960lb 1,343kgPayload with full fuel 1,520lb 689kgPrice $1.65m 1.29m

    SPECIFICATION

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    CESSNA CARAVAN 675

    NOTHINGmatches theversatility and cost-effectiveness of the Caravan 675 - a shorterversion of the Grand model, by about fourfeet. This aircraft also is available in severalconfigurations, including a six-seatexecutive variant.

    It boasts better climb and cruiseperformance than the Grand Caravan, and isa true 200mph aircraft. Like the Grand model,the hourly operating cost is claimed to beunmatched by any other aircraft in its class.

    The beauty of the 675 is that is can alsooperate on water. The 675 wheeledfloatplane version is the largest singleengined floatplane manufactured today. In

    its promotional literature Cessna says,"load it with a generous amount of baggageand/or passengers. Pack extra gear into thefloats. Lift off and fly at speeds in excess of185mph for more than 500 statute miles atmax payload."

    The luxury Oasis interior can be fitted intothe shorter fuselaged Caravan 675 and 675amphibian. These will feature six executiveseats two forward facing seats and an aftfour-place club setting. It can be equippedwith a toilet facility with privacy curtains. Theseats are finished in plush top-grain leather,and customers have the choice of decorativelower sidewall fabrics and traditional sidewalltrim with a veneer accent.

    Length 37 7 11.46mWingspan 52 1 15.88mHeight 14 10 4.51mCabin Length 12 8 3.7mCabin Width 5 2 1.6mCabin Height 4 4 1.3mMax Range (8/1500lb payload) 957nm 1772kmMax Seating 2 + 12Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant P&WC PT6A-114A 675SHP/503kWMax Cruise Speed 186kts 344km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,234fpm 376mpmTake off Distance 2,053ft 626mLanding Distance 1,655ft 504mMTOW 8,000lb 3,629kgMax Landing Weight 7,000lb 3,538kgUseful load 4,062lbs 1,842kgPayload with full fuel 1,838lbs 834kgPrice $1.713m 1.34m

    SPECIFICATION

    SPOTTERS GUIDE

    In its amphibian configuration it is hard to miss. Still based on the Caravan 1 it bears greatresemblance to its bigger brother the 208 Grand Caravan and Cargomaster. However it only hasfive windows on either side.

    HERITAGEThe Caravan 675(short fuselage)combines the airframeof the 208 with thefully rated engines ofthe 208B announcedat NBAA in September1997. FAAcertification wasachieved April 1998with first delivery thatmonth as anamphibian, toRiversville AviationCompany of New York.The 100th Caravanequipped with WipaireWipline 8000amphibious floats wasdelivered in May 2000.

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    CESSNA GRAND CARAVAN

    WHENa business trip meansdropping into a grass strip inan inhospitable area, then the Cessna GrandCaravan is the ideal transportation tool. Andif you are flying from small regionalairports too, it proves its value with itsremarkable short field performance.

    The spacious cabin can be fitted with aluxurious leather interior through YinglingAviation in Wichita which gives the Caravanall of the comforts a business jet withsignificantly more space.

    The Caravans Oasis interior providesseating configurations for up to 10 peoplewith two forward facing seats behind thecrew, a four-place club seating area with

    executive side tables, and aft divan seatingfor two incorporating a standard flushingtoilet approved for occupancy during takeoff and landing. The veneer or laminatewood cabinetry features two standardforward cabinets, one providing aconvenient refreshment centre, while theother is available for pilot materials andgeneral storage applications.

    Electronic equipment including thelatest high-tech entertainment systems,telecommunications, and flight datadisplays are also available as options.

    With its large cargo door and underbellycargo pod, the aircraft is versatile and isoften used as a cargo/passenger mix.

    Length 41' 7" 12.7mWingspan 52' 1" 15.9mHeight 15' 6" 4.7mCabin Length 16' 8" 5.1,Cabin Width 5' 2" 1.6mCabin Height 4" 3" 1.3mMax Range 907nm 1,679kmMax Seating 2 + 12Typical Seating 1 + 6Powerplant 1x PT6A-114A 1,262SHP/941kWMax Cruise Speed 341km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 975fpm 297mpmTake off Distance 2,420ft 738mLanding Distance 1,795ft 547mMTOW 8,750lb 3,985kgMax Landing Weight 8,500lbs 3,855kgUseful load 4,500lb 2,041kgPayload with full fuel 1,361lbs 617kgPrice $1.82m 1.42m

    SPECIFICATION

    HERITAGEThe Caravan was firstintroduced in 1985, andwas originally designedto provide commercialoperators such asFederal Express with amore efficient way totransport cargo. Firstflight of a prototypeoccurred on December 91982 and certificationwas granted in October1984. When productionbegan the following yearit became the first allnew single engineturboprop poweredaircraft to achieveproduction status. TheCaravan fleet operates in68 countries, logs over70,000 hours per month,and has exceeded 8million flight hours. The208-B Grand Caravan is astretched derivative ofthe original Caravan andfirst flew in 1990.

    SPOTTERS GUIDE

    The distinctive Cessna high straight wing with a brace, a single engine and fixed tricycle undercarriagealong with a three blade propeller for the Pratt & Whitney Canada P&WC PT6-A engine make this aneasy one to spot. The aircraft has seven square windows on either side there are only five on thesmaller Caravan 675. Many of the Grand Caravans are fitted with large underbelly cargo pod.

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    dE HAVILLAND TWIN OTTER 400

    FROMAsian jungles to theAntarctic ice caps, oneaircraft that is as capable at minus 60degrees as it is at plus 60 is the Twin Otter.

    Viking Air of British Columbiaannounced at Farnborough in July 2006that it was planning to restart productionof the 19-seat Twin Otter, to be designatedthe Twin Otter Series 400.

    Viking Air, which has been specialising inde Havilland Canada products for more than30 years, acquired Type Certificates forseven de Havilland heritage aircraft,including the DHC-2 Beaver, DHC-3 Otterand the DHC-6 Twin Otter.

    Versions have appeared with largerwindows and reduced seating configurationfor charter and sightseeing missions fromland, water (or in the case of the South Pole,ice) the Twin Otters fixed undercarriagecan be fitted with skis, wheels or floats.

    The aircraft is an ideal corporatetransport for short-field operations.

    HERITAGEThe Viking HS Twin Otter 400 will be thelatest in this long line of STOL turbopropaircraft. It was first seen in January 1964with first flight in May 1965 and firstcustomer delivery in July 1966. Canadasleading aerospace business Bombardierbought the de Havilland company andceased production of the Twin Otter in 1988.Viking bought the rights and is planning touse the latest production technologies tobring a new but effectively unchanged Twin Otter 400 to the market again.The Twin Otter is a derivative of deHavillands successful DHC-3 Otter. Many of the design characteristics of theOtter were left intact in the Twin. The double-slotted flap system that markedthe Otter stayed, but the wingspan grewlonger, as did the ailerons. The wing-struts moved inwards toward theengine nacelles, and the tailwheel wasreplaced by a steerable nosewheel. 20passengers could fly in the Twin, ascompared to only nine in the single Otter.

    The DHC-6 Twin Otter is ahighly manoeuvrable,high winged un-pressurised twin-enginedaircraft. The Pratt &Whitney Canada PT6A-35engines are mountedbelow the braced,straight high wings withthree-bladed propellers,a swept tailfin and low-set tailplane.Specialist large windowsare fitted on someexisting models forsightseeing operators.The original -100 TwinOtters are recognizableby a much shorter nose.

    SPOTTERS GUIDE Length 51'9" 15.77m

    Wingspan 65' 19.8mHeight 9' 8" 2.95mCabin Length 18' 5" 5.61mCabin WidthCabin Height 4' 11" 1.5mMax Range 980nm 1,815kmMax Seating 2 + 20Typical Seating 2 + 17Powerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-34 Max Cruise Speed 182ktas 338km/hMax Ceiling 26,700ft 8,138mRate of Climb 1,600 ft/mTake off Distance 1,200 ft 366mLanding DistanceMTOW 12,500lbs 5,670kgMax Landing Weight 12,300lbs 5,579kgUseful load 4,535lbsPayload with full fuelPrice TBC

    SPECIFICATION

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    EADS SOCATA TBM-850

    ANupgrade of the TBM-700, the single-turboprop TBM-850 is powered by anuprated Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-66D,which has single-crystal turbine bladesenabling higher operating temperatures and,combined with a new compressor first stage,delivering enhanced high-altitude performance.

    Currently the TBM-850 doesnt have afully integrated flight deck however it isbelieved that this could feature in the nextupgrade. The company increased productionduring 2006 to accommodate a recordorder backlog of more than 50 aircraft. Thecompany delivered 42 aircraft in 2006 andhas 32 orders already in hand for 2007.

    The main feature of the new six-seater isits speed320 knots (590 km/h) at FL260 inISA conditions. It is certified up to 31,000ft(9,449m) and will carry three passengers1,520nm. Socata says that flying a typical(unspecified but thought to be the CessnaCitation Mustang) VLJ will save only sevenminutes on a 500-nm trip. But the directoperating costs will increase by 50 percent.

    Length 34 11 10.65mWingspan 41 7 12.68mHeight 14 3 4.35mCabin Length 13 3 4.05mCabin Width 4' 1.21mCabin Height 4 1.22mMax Range (3) 1,520nm 2,815kmMax Seating 2 + 4Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x P&WC PT6A-66D 850shp/633kWAvionics EFIS, dual GNS530 GPS/COM/NAV systems plus KMD 850 MFDMax Cruise Speed 320ktas 593km/hMax Ceiling 31,000ft 9,449mRate of Climb 2,005fpm 611mpmTake off Distance 2,840ft 865mLanding Distance 2,430ft 740mMTOW 7,394lbs 3,354kgMax Landing Weight 7,024lbs 3,186kgUseful load 2,632lbs 1,194kgPayload with full fuel 849lbs 385kgPrice $2.79m 2.18m

    SPECIFICATION

    HERITAGEThe TBM-850 has evolved from the TBM-700,originally a joint venture between Socataand Mooney, however Mooney pulled outshortly after the 700A was certified in 1991.Upgrades in 1999 and 2003 - 700B and700C2. In December 2005 the 850 wasannounced as the successor to the C2 andentered service in February 2006.

    SPOTTERS GUIDEAlthough the TBM looks very similar to itsrival the Piper Meridian, the TBM isdistinguishable on the ramp because theweather radar radome is mounted into theleading edge of the port wing and thetailplane has visible dihedral to produce aV upswept design. There are four windowseach side on the passenger cabin.

    NEW

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    EPIC AIRCRAFT EPICLTIN

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    THEEpicLT is currently only available inkit form, but the factory will helpbuild 49 percent of the aircraft presentlyFAA legislation states that for an amateurbuilt kit plane the owner must build aminimum of 51 percent.

    The Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A delivers1,200shp (894kW) and can propel the LT to amaximum cruise speed of 350ktas (648km/h).

    The LT offers a useful load of 3,400lbs(1,542kg) and a maximum range of1,394nm (2,582km). It is able to seat fourin the passenger cabin and needs only onepilot. With full fuel the aircraft is still ableto offer 1,541lbs (699kg) of payload.

    Although the take off and landing

    distances have not been confirmed, it isexpected that to clear a 50 (15m) obstacleat both maximum take off and maximumlanding weight will be less than 1,800ft(548m) for take off and landing.

    HERITAGEThe LT is an all new composite design fromEpic Aircraft, funded by Aircraft InvestorsResource. Presently only available in kitform, the certification application processhas begun with Transport Canada andapproval is set for the third quarter of 2007.The kit version currently utilises arefurbished Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A,whilst the certified version is due to have aPT6A-68.

    Length 35' 10" 10.91mWingspan 43' 13.11mHeight 12' 6" 3.81mCabin Length 15' ** 4.57mCabin Width 4' 7" 1.41mCabin Height 4' 11" 1.49mMax Range 1,394nm 2,582kmMax Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 1x P&WC PT6A-67A 1,200shp / 894kWMax Cruise Speed 350ktas 648km/hMax Ceiling 31,000ft 9,449mRate of Climb 2,545fpm 776mpmTake off Distance 1,800ft 549mLanding Distance 1,800ft 549mMTOW 7,700lbs 3,493kgMax Landing Weight 7,700lbs 3,493kgUseful load 3,400lbs 1,542kgPayload with full fuel 1,541lbs 699kgPrice* $1.25m 0.97m* In kit form **Front bulkhead to rear bulkhead

    SPECIFICATION

    The EpicLT has asleek smooth designand can be confusedeasily with theFarnborough AircraftsKestrel. The LT hasfour round windowseither side and thecabin door is aft ofthe wing and featuresthe third window. Thewing has a very slightsweep with a blendedwinglet and thehorizontal stabiliser ismounted in line withthe cabin windows.The tail fin is smoothand shark-like.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE

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    EXTRA EA-500

    OWNER-flown business aircraftare attracting a lot ofinterest these days and the Extra EA-500 isone of the available aircraft that deservesmore than a second look.

    It utilises the successful EA-400airframe, and is powered by the Rolls Royce450shp model 250-B17F/2 engine and theMT Propeller five-bladed, reversiblecomposite prop.

    It also includes a state-of-the-artHoneywell avionics system, which is thestandard avionics package for the aircraft.

    The EA-500 has an all-carbon fibrecomposite airframe that is both lighter andstronger than traditional metal structures.The aircrafts high-wing design allows forstability in flight and superior air flow overthe wing and fuselage.

    Priced at $1.345 million it is the lowestcost certified single-engine turboprop onthe market. It has a service ceiling of

    25,000ft, however it cruises at loweraltitudes without sacrificing fuelconsumption and is certified for all-weatheroperations, including Flight Into KnownIcing conditions, and is approved forlanding on grass strips..

    Without a floor wing spar, the EA-500spassenger compartment is similar in sizeto a King Air C90B with four club-stylefacing seats.

    HERITAGEThe aircraft was designed by Walter Extrabetter known for his work with aerobaticaircraft. The German manufacturer went intoliquidation but was bought by US investorsin August 2003 and now has corporateoffices in Pennsylvania. The EA500 wasdeveloped from the airframe of the EA-400.The six-cylinder piston aircraft seats a pilotand five passengers. The turboprop versionreceived EASA certification in July 2004.FAA certification is due early 2007.

    The EA-500features a highcantileverstraight wingand a highlyswept T-tail.The aircraftfeatures threewindows oneach side. Atthe front is thesingle Rolls-Royce 450hpengine with afive-bladepropeller.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE Length 33' 2" 10.12m

    Wingspan 38' 3" 11.67mHeight 11' 1 3.38mCabin Length 13' 6"* 4.14mCabin Width 4' 7" 1.4mCabin Height 4' 1" 1.2mMax Range 1,673nm 3,100kmMax Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 1x Rolls-Royce 250-B17F/2 451SHP/336kWAvionics Honeywell Max Cruise Speed 230ktas 426km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,335fpm 406mpmTake off Distance 2,050ft 625mLanding Distance 1,991ft 607mMTOW 4,696lbs 2,130kgMax Landing Weight 4,409lbs 2,100kgUseful load 1,610lbs 730kgPayload with full fuel 390lbs 176kgPrice $1.345m 1.05m*Cockpit to aft bulkhead

    SPECIFICATION

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    FARNBOROUGH AIRCRAFT F1 KESTREL

    FARNBOROUGHAircraft Corporations F1 Kestrel has been developedto utilise the smaller airports of the world to allowgreater access and versatility for the operator. This single engine turboprop can seat up toeight and currently a single flying prototype has been built and is based at Farnboroughairport, UK, although major assemblies could be built by GAMCO in Abu Dhabi followinginvestment from the UAE. The certification flying will take place in the UK and it is expectedto certify in early 2009. The Kestrel will be able to transport four passengers 1,712nm(3,170km) at 31,000ft (9,449m). Power is provided by a single Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67Bwith 1,000shp (746kW) and a maximum cruise speed of 352ktas (653km/h). The PT6 powerenables the Kestrel to lift a useful load of 2,993lbs (1,358kg).

    It offers good short field performance and will clear a 50 (15m) obstacle at its maximum take

    HERITAGEThe Kestrel is a development of UK-basedFarnborough Aircraft. It is an all new eight-seat composite pressurised turbopropand originally was brainchild of RichardNoble more prominently known fordeveloping the Thrust Supersonic Car. The company has been embroiled insuccessful legal action against AircraftInvestor Resources with regard to the use ofthe Kestrels wing design in the UScompanys Epic Jet which it is developingwith Tblisi-based TAM.

    The Kestrel has asleek design witha single turbopropPT6 and featuresthree passengerwindows on theleft, with thecabin door at the rear. On the right there

    are four passengerwindows. The wing has avery slightblended wingletwith traditionalmid-fuselagemountedhorizontalstabilisers.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE Length 37' 5" 11.4m

    Wingspan 43' 13.1mHeight 12' 7" 3.84mCabin Length 17' 7"* 5.36mCabin Width 5' 1.52mCabin Height 4' 7" 1.40mMax Range (4) 1,712nm 3,170kmMax Seating 1 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 1x P&W PT6A-67B 1,000shp / 746kWMax Cruise Speed 352ktas 653km/hMax Ceiling 31,000ft 9,449mRate of Climb 3,140fpm 957mTake off Distance 1,795ft 547mLanding Distance 1,822ft 555mMTOW 7,000lbs 3,175kgMax Landing Weight 6,650lbs 3,016kgUseful load 2,993lbs 1,358kgPayload with full fuel 1,093lbs 496kgPrice $2.5m 1.95m*includes cockpit

    SPECIFICATION

    off weight of 7,000lbs (3,175kg) in as little as1,795ft (547m). At maximum landing weightof 6,650lbs (3,016kg) it can be down andstopped, without using reverse pitch on thepropeller, from 50 (15m) in 1,822ft (555m).

    Coupled with a climb rate of 3,140fpmat sea level the Kestrel compares favourablywith some ultra light and very light jets.

    The preliminary specifications suggestthat it may well become the benchmark forsingle engine turboprops of the future with speeds similar to some ultra light andvery light jets and a respectable IFR range.

    IN DE

    VELO

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    GROB G160 RANGERIN

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    CERTIFICATIONof the all composite Ranger has been delayed primarilybecause Grobs priority has been switched to the SPnLight Jet, however the Ranger will probably be brought back to life after the SPndevelopment is complete.

    It will have a ceiling of 25,000ft (7,620m) and transport four passengers 1,800nm(3,300km). Powered by a single nose mounted Pratt & Whitney PT6A-42A with 850shp(643kW) it can cruise at a maximum of 270ktas (500km/h).

    The cabin will feature a four place club with either an additional seat in the rear andlavatory, or simply two extra seats. It offers good short field performance and can clear a50 (15m) obstacle at maximum take off weight (7,937lbs / 3,600kg) in as little as 2,415ft(736m). Coming back in to land without using reverse pitch it will land from 50 (15m) in2,130ft (650m) at its maximum landing weight of 7,275lbs (3,300kg).

    HERITAGEIt made its first public debut at the Paris AirShow in June 2003 however it was officiallylaunched in April 2003 and made its maidenflight on 29 March 2004 at Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany. However certificationhas been put on hold whilst the SPn jet isbeing developed and brought to market byGrob and ExecuJet.

    SPOTTERS GUIDEThe engine is nose mounted making thenose look long and features a five bladedpropeller. There are four passengerwindows, and the rearmost on the left isfitted to the cabin door. The wing featuresa prominent winglet and has a traditionaltail with mid-fuselage mounted horizontalstabilisers.

    Length 37 '8" 11.5mWingspan 46' 11" 14.3mHeight 11' 2" 3.4mCabin Length 16' 5" 5mCabin Width 5 1.52mCabin Height 4' 8" 1.42mMax Range (4) 1,800nm 3,300kmMax Seating 1 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x P&WC PT6A-42A 850shp/634kWMax Cruise Speed 270ktas 500km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,850fpm 564mpmTake off Distance 2,415ft 736mLanding Distance 2,130ft 650mMTOW 7,937lbs 3,600kgMax Landing Weight 7,275lbs 3,300kgUseful loadPayload with full fuelPrice $3m 2.3m

    SPECIFICATION

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    PIAGGIO P180 AVANTI II

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    Length 47 3.24 14.41mWingspan 46 0.48 14.03mHeight 13 0.90 3.98mCabin length 1411 4.55mCabin width 6 1 1.85mCabin Height 5 9 1.75mMax range (5) 1,509nm 2,795kmMax seating 9 + 2 crewTypical seating 6 + 1 crewPowerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-66B 850SHP/6.34Kw eachMax Cruise speed 398 KTAS 737km/hMax ceiling 41,000ft 12,500mRate of climb 2,950 fpm 899 mpmTake off Distance 2,850ft 869mLanding Distance 2,860ft 872mMTOW 12,100lbs 5,489kgMax Landing 11,500lbs 4,965kgUseful load 3,800lbs 5,216kgPayload with full fuel 1,548lbs 703kgPrice: $6.2m 5.85

    SPECIFICATION

    HERITAGE

    THEP180 Avanti II was launched inNovember 2004 at NBAA andcertified by the FAA early in 2006.

    The upgrade to the original Avanti wasin response to pressure from the emergingrange of very light jets and the revampedsingle-engined turboprops.

    New features include Rockwell CollinsPro Line 21 avionics, uprated P&WCPT6A-66B turboprops, an increase inmaximum take off weight from 11,960lbs(5,245kg) to 12,100lbs (5,489kg), ahigher useful load, and a faster long-range cruise.

    Standard on the Avanti II is a newlavatory designed by cabin interior company

    Stevens Aviation in the US. Piaggiocompletes its own aircraft in Europe.

    The cabin will provide an extra 14 (10cm)in width, a reduction in weight of around30lbs (14kg), and more storage space.

    The popularity of the Avanti is manifestedin the strong sales of the aircraft, notablyfrom North American fractional ownershipcompanies where some 60% of the worldfleet is based. New York-based Avantair isthe largest user of the type.

    The high performance and reduced noisefrom the twin-pusher turboprop powerplants give the feel and sound of businessjet but the Italian manufacturers claim a 30percent saving in fuel costs.

    The Avanti was firstlaunched in 1986with first delivery in1990 but its unusualdesign was astumbling block andfewer than 100aircraft were sold in20 years. There islittle exteriordifference betweenthe Avanti II and theoriginal model.

    PIAGGIO P180 AVANTI SPOTTERS GUIDE

    The Avanti has been dubbed the Catfish because of its unusual fixed forward wing (not a canard)which provides positive lift reducing the trim drag from the horizontal tail.

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    PILATUS PC-12

    VERSATILITYwith Swissefficiency thats the Pilatus PC-12. More than 600 ofthese workhorse aircraft are in operation. Itis powered by a single Pratt & WhitneyPT6A-67B producing 1,200shp (895kW) andcan be configured with three differentpassenger interior styles nine seat airliner,six seat corporate or a four seat/freightercombination. The majority of the soldaircraft are fitted with a corporate interior.The cabin is 16 11 (5.16m) long, 5 (1.53m)wide and 4 9 (1.45m) high.

    It is certified for SPIFR (Single PilotInstrument Flight Rules) operation and willfly six executives 1,106nm (2,050km)

    there need not be a tarmac runway at theother end, the PC-12 is able to land onunprepared strips and is able to take-offand clear a 50 (15m) obstacle at grossweight in 2,650ft (808m), on landing withuse of reverse thrust it can be down andstopped from 50 (15m) at maximumlanding weight in just 1,830ft (557m).

    The PC-12 is a capable aircraft in itsclass since 2006 it has offered an increasedmaximum take-off weight, 10,495lbs(4,740kg) and in 1998 a smaller wingletwas introduced. It is has a useful load of4,310lbs (1,955kg) and can cruise at270ktas (500km/h) and a ceiling of30,000ft (9,150m).

    Length 47 3 14.40mWingspan 53 4 16.27mHeight 14 4.26mCabin Length 16 11 5.16mCabin Width 5 1.53mCabin Height 4 9 1.45mMax Range (6) 1,106nm 2,050kmMax Seating 2 + 9Typical Seating 2 + 6Powerplant P&WC PT6A-67B 1,200SHP/895kWMax Cruise Speed 270ktas 500km/hMax Ceiling 30,000ft 9,150mRate of Climb 1,600fpm 488mpmTake off Distance 2,650ft 808mLanding Distance 2,160ft 660mMTOW 10,495lbs 4,740kgMax Landing Weight 9,920lbs 4,500kgUseful load 4,310lbs 1,955kgPayload with full fuel 691lbs 313kgPrice $2.875m 2.24m

    SPECIFICATIONHERITAGE

    The PC-12 was an all newdesign for Pilatus in theirrange of single enginePT6 powered aircraft. Itwas announced at NBAAin October 1989 and flewfor the first time in May1991. Certification wasplanned for mid 1993 however Swiss and FAAcertification wereawarded in March andJuly of 1994 respectively.The main setback for thedelay was a redesign ofthe wings to includewinglets therebyensuring thatperformance guaranteeswould be met.

    SPOTTERS GUIDE

    The PC-12 has a nose mounted engine with a four blade propeller. There are five cabin windows onthe right-hand side and four on the left-hand side. It has a T-tail with an enlarged dorsal fin. When fitted with a weather radar this is fitted to the starboard wing close to the winglets.

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    PIPER MERIDIAN

    PIPERhas been building airplanesfor 70 years and the PA-46Meridian is very much among the best ever.

    The aircraft is a light six-seat pressurisedbusiness turboprop powered by a singlePratt & Whitney PT6A-42A with 500 SHP(373kW). Typically flown with a single pilotand four passengers the aircraft is able tocover 1,000+nm. With a take-off groundroll of 1,650ft (503m) it is also able toutilise smaller airfields and bring passengersclose to their planned destinations.

    A pressurised cabin allows the aircraftto fly at 30,000ft. It is fitted with theAvidyne FlightMax Entegra and featuresthree 10.4" displays - two Primary FlightDisplays (PFDs), one for the pilot andanother for a copilot, and the third,centrally mounted, Multi-FunctionDisplay (MFD).

    HERITAGEThe presentday Meridianis theevolution ofthe Piper PA-46 Malibuwhich had itsfirst flight inNovember1979. Thetype wasannounced inNovember 1982 and was powered by a 310hp(230kW) Continental TSIO-520 piston engine 404 were built. The Malibu was among the first aircraft tofeature cabin pressurisation, a feature notincluded on the prototype. Subsequently theMalibu was upgraded in 1988, the changesincorporated a 350hp (260kW) Textron LycomingTIO-540-AE2A and the new designation PA-46-350P Malibu Mirage, although it is nowcommonly known simply as the Piper Mirage,this model is still in production. In 1997 Piperannounced its plans to develop a turbopropversion fitted with the venerable and reliablePratt & Whitney PT6, certification followed inSeptember 2000 with the designation PA-46-500TP Malibu Meridian, again more commonlyknown as the Piper Meridian.

    Length 29' 7" 9.02mWingspan 43' 13.11mHeight 11' 4" 3.44mCabin Length* 12' 4" 3.75mCabin Width 4' 1" 1.25mCabin Height 3' 11" 1.19mMax Range 1,000+nm 1,885+kmMax Seating 2 + 4Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x P&WC PT6A-42A 500SHP/373kW take off powerAvionics Avidyne FlightMax EntegraMax Cruise Speed 260ktas 481km/hMax Ceiling 30,000ft 9,144mRate of Climb 1,556fpm 474mpmTake off Distance 2,438ft 743mLanding Distance 2,110ft 643mMTOW 5,092 lbs 2,310 kgMax Landing Weight 4,850lbs 2,200kgUseful load 1,720 lbs 780 kgPayload with full fuel 564lbs 256kgPrice $1.895m 1.48m*Instrument Panel to Rear Bulkhead

    SPECIFICATION

    SPOTTERS GUIDE

    Although the Meridian looks very similar to the Socata TBM-850, the Meridian is distinguishable on theramp because of the weather radar radome mounted on a pylon under the starboard wing. The tailplaneis mounted horizontally and there are three rectangular windows each side on the passenger cabin.

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    QUEST KODIAK

    IN DE

    VELO

    PMEN

    T

    Length 33' 4" 10.16mWingspan 45' 13.72mHeight 15' 4" 4.67mCabin Length 15 6 4.72mCabin Width 4 6 1.37mCabin Height 4 9 1.44mMax Range 1,075nm 1,991kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 2 + 6Powperplant 1x P&W PT6A-34 750SHP/559kWAvionics Garmin G1000Max Cruise Speed 190ktas 351km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,700fpm 518mpmTake off Distance 1,200ft 366mLanding Distance 1,660ft 505mMTOW 6,750lbs 3,062kgMax Landing Weight 6,750lbs 3,062kgUseful load 3,450lbs 1,565kgPayload with full fuel 1,306lbs 592kgPrice $1.295m 1.01m

    SPECIFICATION

    The Kodiak is a highwing single engineturboprop featuringfixed tricycleundercarriage,however it isavailable withfloats or as anamphibian. It hasstruts from thewings to thefuselage which joinin front of the mainlanding gear. Thereare four passengercabin windows oneach side and atraditionally midmounted horizontalstabiliser.

    SPOTTERSGUIDE

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    Turboprops

    BACKWOODSbusiness?Outback,rough terrain or lakeland work? Then thisaircraft under development is just right.The simple rugged design and versatility ofthe undercarriage be it wheels, floats oran amphibian combination means theKodiak can get in and out of almostanywhere. Combine the ruggedness with apropeller clearance of 19 inches and itscertain to be able to handle the bumps andlumps off piste.

    At its maximum take off weight of6,750lbs (3,062kg) it has a grou