Seeker Aircraft reports that the FAA and the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) have both issued Normal Category Type Certificates (TCs) to the Seeker SB7L-360 series aircraft.
Now that it is FAA Part 23 Normal Category Certified, Seeker Aircraft can sell the Seeker for commercial operations, in addition to individuals for personal use, company officials explain.
The A and A2 model Seekers went through an extensive improvement process, including a complete NVG compatible cockpit redesign with a glass navigation system, parts and component standardization, and fuel system improvements, according to company officials.
The FAA validation flights consisted of evaluation of the cockpit and ergonomics, general flight characteristics, and stall characteristics.
Seeker Aircraft officials said they expect a “dramatic increase” in North American sales with the new certification.
The Seeker is a light observation aircraft that was specifically designed and developed for surveillance missions. Seekers are currently flying missions in Australia, Jordan, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Tanzania, UAE, and the US with the New Mexico State Police, among others.