Sonex Aircraft has introduced the Xenos B-Model aircraft kit.
The Xenos-B combines all of the enhancements of the Sonex and Waiex B-Models with the motorglider performance and value of the Xenos, according to company officials.
The Xenos-B is available to order now, with a complete airframe kit base price of $27,495. Kit shipments are estimated to begin in March 2017.
“We’re very excited to bring the huge improvements of the Sonex and Waiex B-Models to the Xenos motorglider,” said Sonex Aircraft General Manager Mark Schaible. “This change has been requested by many prospective Xenos Motorglider customers and brings all of our two-place aircraft up to the same enhanced B-Model specification. B-Model fuselage changes for the Xenos also bring expanded payload opportunities to the Teros UAV program, which we are continually developing in conjunction with Navmar Applied Sciences Corporation.”
Xenos B-Model enhancements include:
More Room and Comfort
- Sonex and Waiex B-Models are enlarged via straightening of the forward fuselage sides, and feature improved creature comforts:
- More width and comfort at the shoulders, hips, knees and feet.
- Seat back is moved aft, and new seating geometry accommodates taller individuals. Staggered seating is available via upholstery seat back cushions.
- Center Y-Stick offers dual controls with easier cockpit entry and roomier seating.
More Panel Space
The enlarged B-Model instrument panel offers plenty of space for today’s dual-screen avionics installations with room to spare, company officials note.
More Engine Options
A new universal cowl is designed to fit many popular engine options. Builders can experience the same great firewall-forward support for AeroVee/AeroVee Turbo and Jabiru engines, and in addition, B-Model engine mounts are available for UL Power and Rotax 912-series engines.
More Fuel
The new B-Model fuel tank holds 20 US gallons, a four-gallon increase over the original Xenos.
More Standard Features and Less Build Time
- Machined Angle Components included;
- AeroBrake Hydraulic Brakes included;
- Dual Throttle Quadrants included;
- AeroConversions Trim System included;
- ABS Molded Cockpit Side Panels, Cable and Pushrod Fairings included;
- Precision-molded cowling is installed quickly and easily;
- Engine mount bolts quickly and accurately to the airframe;
- More laser-cut, formed and machined parts to reduce fabrication time and ease construction;
- Machined Canopy Bows for easier canopy installation.
The Xenos also comes standard with utility wing tips that can be removed to fit inside a 40-foot hangar, and can be interchanged with optional aerobatic wingtips.
The Xenos can either be flown as a Sport Pilot/LSA, or it can be flown by pilots that hold a glider rating with a self-launch glider endorsement.
The Xenos can be flown as a powered aircraft, a self-launched glider that soars with the engine off, or it can motor-soar over great distances, company officials note.