OLYMPIA, Wash. – Soloy Aviation Solutions is buying the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the Tradewinds Turbine Bonanza conversion package.
“We are excited to have reached an agreement with Don Brooks, the current owner of the Tradewinds Turbine Bonanza STC,” stated James Cowan, CEO Soloy Aviation. “With its 450 shaft horsepower, 250-B17 series Rolls-Royce engine, the Tradewinds Turbine Bonanza has proven to be a wonderful airplane.”
Seeking ongoing technical service and support played a part in Brooks’ decision to sell the STC. Additionally, “the original development [of the STC] was accomplished by Soloy,” which makes the the sale feel right to Brooks.
“It’s a bittersweet day for me, but I’m very happy knowing that the Tradewinds Turbine Bonanza is going home,” continued Brooks.
Dave Stauffer, COO of Soloy Aviation Solutions, said that Soloy Aviation originally worked with Allison Gas Turbine Division to earn the original FAA STC for the turbine Bonanza conversion package in 1986.
“While we see a great future for the airplane, our initial priority is to initiate FAA PMA (Parts Manufacturer Approval) production of key replacement parts and begin updating the technical manuals,” noted Stauffer. “Our message to current owners is simple: You have a great airplane, now you’re going to get equally great support that the current Tradewinds turbine Bonanza owners need.”
For the longer term, Stauffer said that once the spares backlog and technical support issues are on track, Soloy engineers are going to start an active upgrade program.
“From an enhancement perspective it looks like our first priority will be a review of the cowling design and incorporation of a bleed air heated inlet system to replace the current and less reliable electrically heated inlet,” continued Stauffer.
In other words, stay tuned.
