KESTRELAIRCRAFT HAS begun fabrication of the first of three flight-test aircraft and two-ground-test models required for US certification of its K-250 all-composite light aircraft. Norman, Oklahoma-based Kestrel has completed flight tests of a proof-of-concept prototype previously designated the KL-1.
The K-250 is the first in a planned family of four- to six-seat utility aircraft with a high-wing, tricycle-gear layout which is strongly reminiscent of Cessna's piston-single designs. The four-seat aircraft is powered by a 185kW (250hp) Teledyne Continental IO-520 engine driving a Hartzell three-bladed propeller.
Certification is planned for December, and Kestrel is evaluating offers from sites bidding to host the production line.
Source: Flight International
