LSAs feature new Rotax engine

The new Rotax 912iS engine is now featured on FlightDesign and Pipistrel models.

Flight Design has introduced its CTLSi, which features the new fuel-injected 912iS powerplant from Rotax Aircraft Engines. As a leader in the Light-Sport Aircraft segment, Flight Design is in a long-term partnership with the BRP-Powertrain distribution network.

“With fuel injection, Rotax has leaped forward, allowing our new CTLSi model to achieve even more,” said Flight Design USA President Tom Peghiny. “Carburetors demand more mechanical oversight and tuning the dual carbs increases complexity. With fuel injection, balancing carbs is no longer necessary. Pilots will find increased torque, easier starting, and smoother operation. Carb ice concerns becomes a thing of the past.”

Fuel injection is more precise, allowing better efficiency at lower pollution levels thanks to a computer chip that constantly optimizes the air-to-fuel ratio, company officials said. Most of the regular carburetors must be adjusted periodically, which also demands training. Fuel injection is more reliable and automatically compensates for altitude, which reduces pilot work load.

Using signals from several sensors, fuel injection monitors engine vacuum, exhaust gas temperature, ambient air pressure, incoming air temperature, liquid coolant temperature, and throttle position to self adjust for engine condition and atmospheric conditions.

The CTLSi is available for immediate order with first deliveries in mid-2012.

Also one of the first to use the new engine is the double NASA Challenge winner Pipistrel Virus SW.

“While the performance numbers of the Virus SW do not change, as the 912 iS maintains 100 hp, the fuel consumption decreases dramatically by as much as 21%, preliminary numbers show,” Pipistrel officials said. “This means that the Virus SW equipped with the new Rotax 912 iS cruises at 274 km/h (147 kts) in 15 litres per hour (3.95 gph).”

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