Netherlands developer pursues European certification for composite kitplane
Netherlands start-up manufacturer Dutch Aeroplane (DAC) will start official engine tests on its RangeR two-seat kitplane this week ahead of a flight-test programme that could lead to first customer deliveries next year. The Hague-based DAC says its development programme is back on track after suffering a series of delays to its original schedule, including damage to the engine housing in earlier tests.
Testing of the adapted Isuzu Y17DT diesel-cycle automotive engine is expected to last four weeks and will be conducted by Roosendaal-based modification specialist Technical Training Equipment. Engine performance is expected to exceed the company's original projection of 90shp (70kW) maximum power. The Y17DT has been fitted with an aluminium flywheel to reduce weight by 15kg (35lb). DAC has also opted for a three-bladed MT propeller to achieve sufficient power at 1,650rpm, says DAC managing director Evert Cornet.
DAC earlier this year abandoned plans to base its flight-test programme in the USA. This followed revisions to the test flight programme made by technical consultants at nearby Delft Technical University. The new plan mirrors the European joint airworthiness requirements for very light aircraft (JAR-VLA), although certification is not planned. Testing will remain in the Netherlands, possibly at Den Helder airfield.
DAC has signed a letter of intent with Slovakian composites specialist Complet. The two will conduct a design review after initial flight tests to make the airframe lighter and easy to assemble, says Cornet. There are around 20 "serious" expressions of interest in the €45,000 ($56,500) kit, which will be marketed once experimental approval is granted. DAC aims to produce around 50 kits a year from 2006.
JUSTIN WASTNAGE / THE HAGUE
Source: Flight International
