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August 25, 2006
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The Light Sport Aircraft mockup generated excitement among thousands of gathered aviation enthusiasts at this year’s AirVenture Oshkosh 2006 show. |
Heads turned at the Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) AirVenture Oshkosh 2006 this year as Cessna unveiled their new proof of concept model for the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) sector. The aircraft unveiling generated excitement among thousands of gathered aviation enthusiasts and professionals, and highlighted Textron’s commitment to innovative aerospace concepts.
In June, Cessna announced it was studying the feasibility of developing and producing a Light Sport Aircraft. Over the next several months, the company will evaluate a range of issues to determine if there is a favorable business case.
"More people have learned to fly in Cessnas than all other aircraft combined," said Cessna Chairman, President and CEO Jack Pelton. "As the largest producer of single engine piston airplanes in the world, we believe we are well positioned to bring unique capabilities to the LSA market. Considering our sales, distribution, training and support networks, it appears this could be a logical extension of our product line. But more importantly, we believe that Light Sport Aircraft may be the key to stimulating new pilot starts, re-energizing our industry and feeding the important pipeline of human talent which is so important to all of us," he said.
"I do want to make clear, however, that we have yet to make the decision to enter the LSA sector. We will be assessing the market and the business case over the next few months and plan to make a go/no go decision in the first quarter of next year," Pelton said.
The newly-emerging Light Sport Aircraft category is the highest growth sector of general aviation. Light Sport Aircraft are defined as having a maximum gross weight of 1,320 pounds, maximum level-flight speed of 120 knots, and no more than two seats.
The proof-of-concept aircraft Cessna unveiled features a high wing spanning 30 feet, side-by-side seating for two in a cabin with a maximum width of 48 inches (a half-foot more than the ubiquitous Cessna 152), tricycle gear, and a 100-hp Rotax 912 engine.
Cessna's sport aircraft incorporates dual control sticks, upward opening doors, toe brakes, and a castering nose wheel. Construction is primarily of aluminum, with selective use of composite parts for the cowl, wing and dorsal fin.
Pelton said first flight of the aircraft is planned for later this year.
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