New Zealand's Pacific Aerospace (PAC) is nearing the end of the certification process for its PAC 750XL single-engine turboprop after several months' delay. The Hamilton-based manufacturer has completed its flight-test programme and documents were submitted for New Zealand civil aviation authority inspection late last month, says Brian Hare, PAC managing director.
The New Zealand authorities will begin one week's audit of the PAC 750XL from 3 May with certification set to follow within weeks. The PAC 750XL has undergone several structural modifications since its first flight in September 2001, most recently a new rudder and ailerons (Flight International, 10-16 September 2002).
Meanwhile, Ibis Aerospace has selected Chelton Flight Systems to provide primary flight and navigation instrumentation for its Ae270 single-engine utility turboprop. Chelton's avionics suite includes the FlightLogic Synthetic Vision dual screen electronic flight instrument system, which will be fitted as standard on the seven-seat, VIP- configured Ae270 Sprit. US certification is scheduled for the end of the year, leading to first deliveries early in 2004. The Ae270 is being certified for FAR 23 single-pilot operation and will be eligible for FAR Part 135 operation.
Source: Flight International
