Societe de Motorisations Aéronautiques' (SMA) four-cylinder MR250 diesel engine has been flown for the first time. The engine was fitted to a Socata TB20 Trinidad. SMA is a joint venture between the French light aircraft maker Socata and engine developer Renault Sport.
The 50min trial of the 135kW (180hp) engine was conducted from Socata's base in Tarbes, on 3 March - six months later than planned. SMA says that the engine has accumulated around 300h of bench testing.
The family of horizontally opposed engines, which will be available in 135kW, 185kW and 225kW variants, is scheduled for European certification next year. The engines will power Socata's Morane range of light aircraft now under development.
Source: Flight International
