8 March 2016
The two-seat Sun Flyer solar-powered electric aircraft being developed in the US by Aero Electric Aircraft Corp (AEAC) has taken a big step forwards. The first proof-of-concept prototype airframe has been delivered ready for installation of the electronics systems, powerplant and instruments.
The prototype was built by kitplane manufacturer Arion Aircraft of Nashville, Tennessee and delivered to AEAC at Centennial Airport, near Denver, Colorado. It looks surprisingly similar to the Lightning kitplanes produced by Arion.
Sun Flyer is intended to be the first FAA-certified, practical, all-electric aircraft serving the flight training market. After the aircraft’s electronics systems, flight instruments and electric power plant are installed, ground and taxi tests will begin, said AEAC.
George Bye, CEO of AEAC, thanked the engineering, operations and support team for their hard work that played an instrumental role in getting the aircraft completed. “This is a major milestone in the Sun Flyer programme,” he said. “I want to extend my thanks to our Board of Directors, Strategic Advisors, Shareholders and industry colleagues who have supported our effort.”
PC-Aero technology
No mention was made of European company PC-Aero who developed and supplied the solar technology. PC-Aero provided the single-seat aircraft technology demonstrator, known in Europe as Elektra One, to AEAC under lease. PC-Aero is also developing a two-seater, the Elektra Two, independently of AEAC.
Calim Cologan, CEO of PC-Aero, said he heard that AEAC had gone to another aircraft manufacturer for the two-seater via the internet. “We are disappointed about the evolution of this cooperation,” he told FLYER.
Sun Flyer uses solar panel technology on the wings. Image: AEAC
High-tech training
However, it appears the Sun Flyer is progressing. Bye said the AEAC team has an ambitious but exciting year ahead.
“We expect to make significant progress over the next several months in Sun Flyer POC prototype testing and in the ongoing development and refinement of the final production design,” he said.
He also explained that Sun Flyer will use broadband and iPad connectivity as part of a high-tech flight training system to enhance the student pilot-instructor experience.
“We have an iPad in the proof of concept prototype, as well as Redbird Flight Simulations Sidekick,” said Bye. “The new Redbird Sidekick keeps track of motor parameters, as well as flight time, airplane position, attitude, and landings, and wirelessly transmits the data to the flight school or ground station where the operator can track it via Redbird’s customisable Sidekick software.”
Several orders for the two-seat Sun Flyer have already been placed. Five have been ordered by Eagle Air, and another by Aero Touring Club de France.
