DIESEL DEAL
Cirrus Design and Thielert Aircraft Engines (TAE) are nearing a deal to offer diesel engines on SR22 airframes. Customers are calling for the option that would let the high-performance four-seat aircraft operate on jet fuel, as costs of avgas rise and availability decreases. "We've flown prototype airframes. We don't have one that's ready for commercial installation, but we're excited about the possibilities," says Cirrus chief executive Alan Klapmeier. Thielert earned supplemental type certificate earlier this year for the installation of the 350hp (257kW) Centurion 4.0 on the SR22 G2.
HELICOPTER MILESTONE
US offshore operator PHI has achieved 20,000 fleet hours with the Sikorsky S-92 helicopter since it took delivery of the first two production aircraft three years ago. Louisiana-based PHI now operates 10 S-92s with plans for continued deliveries through 2010.
Source: Flight International
