19 December 2025
BRM Aero has received EASA approval for the Bristell B23 fitted with the Rotax 916iS engine, making it the world’s first CS-23 certified aircraft to use the 160hp turbocharged powerplant.
The approval, granted on 17 December 2025, adds the highest-powered option yet to the Bristell B23 range and significantly expands the aircraft’s operational capability. The new B23-916iS configuration is aimed at training, touring and more demanding roles, including glider towing and high-altitude operations.
160hp Bristell B23 ideal for glider tow launches. Photos: Bristell
The Rotax 916iS delivers 160hp and is fully turbocharged, providing strong performance in hot-and-high conditions. In the B23, it allows a certified operating altitude of up to FL180 and a maximum glider towing weight of 850kg. BRM AERO quotes a take-off roll of 153 metres and a take-off distance over a 50ft obstacle of 286m, subject to weight, configuration and conditions.
Rotax 916iS engine fitted to the B23
Martin Bristela, CEO of BRM AERO, said the approval underlines the flexibility of the B23 platform, “From the beginning, we designed the B23 as a universal aircraft that can grow with our customers’ needs.
“With EASA approval of the 916iS configuration, operators can now choose a performance level that suits everything from cost-effective training to demanding towing and high-altitude missions.”
Cockpit of the B23
The Bristell B23 is an all-metal, two-seat aircraft designed for both flight training and private touring. It features a wide 130cm cabin, Garmin glass cockpit avionics as standard, and a maximum take-off weight of 750kg, with a useful load of up to 280kg depending on configuration.
Alongside the new 916iS option, the B23 remains available with the Rotax 912iS (100 hp) and 915iS (141 hp), including an IFR-capable 915iS variant. All versions share the same certified airframe, with performance differences driven primarily by engine choice.
The B23 already holds both EASA CS-23 and FAA Part 23 certification, following FAA approval earlier in 2025, and joins a fleet of more than 1,100 Bristell aircraft delivered worldwide since 2009.
The B23-916iS is now available to order through BRM AERO’s authorised dealers, with demonstration flights offered at the company’s Kunovice base in the Czech Republic.
