Search Results for : Pipistrel

We begin coverage of the Aero 2012 event, brought to you each day that Dave’s Internet connection permits. All photos by Dave Unwin —DJ ||||
Celebrating its 20th Anniversary, Friedrichshafen Germany’s Aero show has grown in both size and popularity. Indeed, many feel it is easily the largest and most important general aviation show outside of North America. Unusually for most other GA shows, it also gives the style-conscious show-goer the unusual option of wearing Lederhosen. I must admit that as I read yet another doom-filled newspaper while waiting for my flight, I did wonder if perhaps this year’s event might be significantly smaller than it was in 2011. *** At first glance, I’d say that it was, although as I wandered around the display halls I was astonished at just how many new aircraft types were being displayed. I’ve always believed that recessions are often essentially “self-fulfilling” prophecies, generated mostly by negative coverage in the mass media.

In a product launch somewhat comparable to an Apple Inc., product event, BRP Rotax drew a large group of attendees to their facility in Gunskirchen, Austria.
Update 3/12/12 — See the impressive list below for airplanes displayed at the 912 iS launch. —DJ
The occasion was the launch of their new 912 iS engine. In the tech world, “i” means Internet. In the light aviation world, or more specifically BRP Rotax’s world, “i” now means injected. *** “Pilots will appreciate the easier pre-flight check and starting procedures offering them an enhanced flight experience,” stated Rotax/BRP. They add that this removes “the need for servicing and synchronizing the carburetors every 200 hours.” Fuel injection also “eliminates” carburetor icing. Users of the engine will appreciate these improvements. *** Fuel injection is controlled by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) similar to automotive applications. A mechanic can connect to the ECU with a laptop for easier maintenance.

Flying with Juice
As an airplane approaches, a whirring sound accompanied by a
barely discernible whine and a mild propeller buzz exhibit a
Doppler effect as the plane passes overhead. What is that curious noise?
We are intimately attuned to internal combustion engine sounds –
some experts claim they can identify the brand and size of an engine
simply by listening to it run. We’re less aware of electric motor noises
because we quickly tune them out. Electric motors run everywhere in
our lives – in our refrigerators, our computers, in our ceiling fans, and
numerous other appliances. Most motors – it’s incorrect to call them an
“engine” – are exceptionally quiet, and that’s a good thing.
One wonders if relatively quiet electric motors on aircraft will invade
our piston-powered world, especially given noise sensitivity at many airports.
Some say, “We’re about to see if electric works.” I say, “We’re seeing
it right now!”
Two years ago, I wrote about ultralights – literally Part 103-compliant
ultralights – operating remarkably well on electric power.1 In the ensuing
months, more projects have been announced.

The show I look forward to the most every winter is the Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo, the premier gathering of Light Sport industry vendors in America. *** This is the eighth go ’round for the expo; each year it offers more pure fun for LSA pilots present and future. *** This year sports a noticeably upscale look, with new management (show founder Robert Woods remains very active in the show) and a stronger promotional flavor. *** Major sponsors this year include our own Plane & Pilot! *** The four-day gathering, which kicks off next Thursday, Jan. 19, promises to be the biggest show yet. *** Lots of return and new LSA exhibitors, display booths with the latest hot gear, and symposiums, including the new Bristell low wing monoplane and Pipistrel Sinus 50-foot span motorglider, both of which I hope to fly for future reports.

A couple fun things before I lose the day entirely.Just got word from Tecnam today, via Plane & Pilot publisher Mike McMann, that the Italian aircraft producer has adapted one of my favorite LSA, the P92 Echo and Eaglet (trainer version), for water operations. *** Dubbed the P92 Sea-Sky Hydroplane, this waterbird should prove to be yet another fun entry into the SLSA sweepstakes. *** My impression of the Eaglet remains: a lively, forgiving, fun-to-fly all metal trainer that I expect will appeal even more with web feet, for those of aquatic inclinations. *** Some details: The Hydroplane is the 6th generation model of the successful P92. *** Takeoff run is spec’d at under 200 meters, along with “an impressive climb rate” from its 100-hp Rotax engine. And I wonder how the Eaglet’s landing performance, for example (26 knots, full flaps, no power) will translate to the water and extra weight.