15 May 2016
The proof-of-concept Sun Flyer electric aircraft had its official roll-out last week. The two-seat aircraft is being developed for flight training and uses a combination of solar panels on the wings and batteries to power its electric motor.
Performance data from the POC prototype will be used to help finalise the design for the certified production version, according to Aero Electric Aircraft Corp (AEAC) the company developing the aircraft. George Bye, CEO and Founder of AEAC, said the rollout of the aircraft is the first of many complex steps.
During the event, Peter Harris, CEO of Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, announced Spartan is reserving five additional Sun Flyer airplanes. Spartan, a key development partner, reserved the first 20 Sun Flyer delivery positions and signed a Training Program Development Agreement to help develop a complete training system for Sun Flyer.
“This is a great day,” Harris said. “We are thrilled to have Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology involved as part of the Sun Flyer in an industry that needs pioneers. This is changing the nature of aviation training that will have an impact for generations to come.”
Charlie Johnson, President of AEAC, said the event was a significant moment in the evolution of general aviation. “Sun Flyer is going to be environmentally friendly, but there will be a lot of significant cost reductions as well,” he said.
The operating costs of the Sun Flyer are five times lower than the costs associated with similar training aircraft equipped with fuel burning internal combustion engines, according to AEAC. Only about $1 of electricity is needed for each flying hour.
The Sun Flyer, a two-seat, low-wing trainer, has solar cells on the wings, lithium-ion battery packs and an electric motor that AEAC says is quieter than conventional aircraft motors and is emission-free. Designed for flight schools, the aircraft will come with a tailored training program that AEA is developing in partnership with Redbird Flight. Flight tests for the Sun Flyer are expected to begin soon and continue through the end of 2016.
Sun Flyer Fast Facts
Max take-off weight 1,480 lb
Stall speed (full flaps) 45 knots
Stall speed (no flaps) 50 knots
Cruise speed 86 knots
Max cruise 120 knots
