Raisbeck Commercial Air Group has won approval for a stand-alone version of its leading edge aerodynamic performance system (LEAPS), which repositions the slats on the Boeing 727.
The LEAPS modification shortens the travel of the leading-edge slats by about 60mm and provides performance and noise benefits, says Raisbeck. These include higher maximum take-off weights of up to 2,270kg (5,000lb) due to better second segment climb performance and reduced average block fuel consumption of up to 365kg.
"This could be particularly important for certification to 'Stage 3.5' noise legislation, which we believe will come soon" says Raisbeck performance engineer, Ken Thomson. Until now, the LEAPS modification has been included as part of the company's Stage 3 increased gross weight and heavy gross weight 727 kits.
Source: Flight International
