Lancair has begun production deliveries of the Columbia 300, its first certificated light aircraft, about 18 months later than planned.
The Bend, Oregon-based manufacturer says the delays were caused by certification issues and negotiations with the company's Malaysian financial backers.
Final funding for full production is expected to be agreed by the end of March. Lancair expects production certification in early April.
The first production aircraft was delivered in late February. Lancair plans to produce 15 aircraft this year and 90 next year. The company has orders for 100 aircraft.
The Columbia 300 is an all-composite four-seater with fixed landing gear. A turbocharged version is expected to be developed next - probably within the next two years, says Lancair - followed by a retractable-gear variant.
Source: Flight International
