Explorer Aircraft plans to begin taking orders for the turboprop-powered version of its Explorer 500 11-seat utility aircraft at the AirVenture 2000 show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, this month.
The Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6-powered aircraft has been in flight test since June. The Denver-based company has re-engined the Australian-built, piston-powered prototype with the 450kW (600hp) PT6-135B turboprop planned for the Explorer 500T.
The next step will be to install floats, says Explorer president Don Joseph, then the prototype will be re-engined with the 450kW Orenda OE-600 V-8 piston engine planned for the production Explorer 500R.
Explorer hopes to launch the programme early next year. It plans first deliveries of the $900,000 500T in 2004, with the $700,000 500R following six months later.
Source: Flight International
