Flight Design GmbH will introduce its C4, a four-seat model patterned after the CT series, with the company exhibiting a full-size proof-of-concept at this year’s Aero 2011 in Freidrichshafen, Germany, as well as at this summer’s Oshkosh.
Even before debuting the C4 at Aero, slated for April 13-16, the company is seeking comments from its current customer base, prospective customers, and its worldwide dealer network.
“We want to create the optimal four-seat aircraft for our customers,” stated Chief Technical Officer Oliver Reinhardt. “Engineers often put emphasis on certain features on a new design, while a flight school or a private owner might want something we did not consider, so we are putting our concept of the C4 design out for the public to participate in the process.” Besides surveys at Aero and Sun ‘n Fun 2011, everyone can be part of the design development via an online survey. All participants will be entered into a drawing for a Garmin aera 500 GPS as a grand prize. To participate in the online survey, which kicks off March 1, go to FlightDesign.com
Flight Design’s engineering staff has been working on the C4 project for several years and the final design is nearing completion, according to company officials. “After Airventure at Oshkosh 2011, we plan to freeze development and at Aero and Sun ‘n Fun 2012, customers will be able to examine one of the conforming flight test prototypes. EASA approval is targeted for the end of 2012,” explained Flight Design Chief Procurement Officer Christian Wenger. “We are working closely with our suppliers on the development schedule and the standard equipment for the aircraft.”
The company’s CT series and MC model are all two seaters, fitting into the Light Sport Aircraft category.
“We are now working towards full type certificates for the CTLS and MC and we plan to certify the C4 to several international standards, including Part 23 in the United States. At the same time we intend to improve our capability in global service and support, further expanding our leadership in these areas,” said CEO Matthias Betsch.
The German company has already passed several examinations, including a Light Aircraft Manufacturers (LAMA) audit, ISO audit, and a review by TÜV. Recently the company gained EASA Design Organization Approval that permits Flight Design to progress without further involvement from EASA.
Flight Design is a 24-year-old air-sport products producer based in Germany. More than 1,500 of its CT series aircraft are flying in 39 countries. One of the first aircraft certified under ASTM International standards in 2005, the CT (“composite technology”) remains the top-selling LSA in America through six consecutive years. Flight Design sold the first LSA to India and was the first LSA to earn Chinese Type Design Approval. Three times a CT has been flown around the world.
For more information: FlightDesignUSA.com
Be a better informed pilot.
Join over 110,000 readers each month and get real-world news and information direct to your inbox, each day.
I can’t wait to see the four-seater from Flight Design. With ~1,500 aircraft worldwide, the world leader in light sport aircraft will certainly launch an innovative, safe, and comfortable four-seat aircraft. See you at Sun ‘n’ Fun!