Extra Aircraft unveiled a new proof-of-concept high-wing four-seater at the AERO show, along with a new aerobatic touring airplane called the 300LT.
The proof-of-concept airplane is the TR230 Traveler, and it’s been designed with the help of computational fluid dynamics for optimal short takeoff and landing performance, high payloads, and interior comfort. Though the airplane has yet to fly, the flight test program anticipates a late-summer 2010 first flight of the TR230, with European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification and production start at the end of 2012.
Target specifications for the all-carbon-fiber design include a max takeoff weight of 3,194 lbs; an empty weight of 1,872 lbs; a 106-gallon fuel capacity; a 47-knot stall speed; and a max cruise speed of 160 knots. A single Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 engine will produce a maximum of 230 hp at 2,400 rpm. The airplane will have three entry doors and will have an as-yet-unnamed all-glass avionics suite. The projected price is 350,000 Euros/$473,000 at current exchange rates.
The Extra 300LT is a two-seat aerobatic touring airplane that closely resembles other Extra aerobatic designs. Though it’s capable of advanced aerobatic maneuvers (it’s rated up to +/- 10 Gs), it has limited inverted-flight capability and is aimed at those who want to add cross-country touring comfort to Extra’s traditional aerobatic strengths. The 300LT has a 315-hp Lycoming AEIO-580-B1A engine, a 55-gallon fuel capacity, a 205-knot cruise speed, and a smoke system. A two-screen Aspen Avonics PFD and MFD are in the cockpit, along with a Garmin GNS 430 GPS/COM, and an Electronics International MVP-50 engine monitoring system. The LT’s price is set at €255,000/US$384,550 at current exchange rates. The airplane will be on display at this year’s EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wis.
