Comp Air says flight testing of its proof-of-concept CA-12 has demonstrated all major performance predictions for the all-composite single turboprop.
Specification take-off distances, climb performance and 310kt (575km/h) cruise speed have been confirmed, says the Merritt Island, Florida-based company.
Turbine kitplane builder Comp Air is working with Downing Aviation Associates to secure venture-capital funding and industry resources to certificate and produce the CA-12, which is powered by a 1,650shp (1,230kW) Honeywell TPE331-14GR turboprop. The programme is expected to take 36 months, leading to US certification in the first quarter of 2010.
Downing says the single-turboprop market is growing faster than any other sector of aviation because the aircraft offer a better combination of speed, fuel efficiency and cabin size than very light jets. The Comp Air 12 will compete with the EADS Socata TBM 850, Epic Dynasty and Pilatus PC-12.
Source: Flight International
