European Joint Aviation Authorities certification of the French APM-20 Lionceau high-performance, composite light aircraft is expected late this year. The Lionceau was shown in static and flying displays at the Paris air show in June. Flight-testing continues.
Three examples of the initial two-seat version have been built. The first is powered by a 60kW (80hp) Rotax 912 engine, the second consists of an airframe for static testing, and the third, powered by a JPX engine, is the first true production aircraft. According to designer Philippe Moniot, the aircraft can be equipped with a 90kW Textron Lycoming powerplant running on automotive fuel.
Intended primarily as alight trainer, the Lionceau has a maximum weight of just 600kg and will cruise at more than 110kt (200km/h) giving an operating range of more than 1,000km (540nm). The aircraft is claimed to offer very low maintenance costs.
Moniot, who also owns Issoire, France-based Lex Composites, where the Lionceau's airframe is made, says that a four-seat version is on the way, with no major changes to the airframe.
Source: Flight International
