Lancair Lancair IV

In 1988, Lance contacted Martin Hollman to help design a four place aircraft around a Contintental TSIO-550A engine which had 350 hp at 2,700 rpm. The goal was to design and produce a 345 mph, four seat, pressurized aircraft that could be easily built in one’s home shop and fly at 24,000 ft.. The Lancair IV-P maintains a 5.0 psi cabin differential. From the outset the aircraft was designed to be presssurised Aerodynamicist, Rick McWilliams designed the wing.
In addition to computer analysis and static load testing, a full flutter test program was conducted. The airframe was analyzed through ground vibration testing (GVT) that determines stiffness and natural frequencies of all major components. Test pilot Dave Morss conducted all in-flight tests to again verify safe operations throughout the entire flight envelope.
A complete stress/strain survey was conducted by Hartzell and MT-Propeller to ensure a perfect match to the Continental engine and airframe. In these tests, sophisticated radio transmitting equipment was attached to the engine and propeller so that actual real-time, in-flight data could be received and analyzed.
With the Lancair IV and IV-P requirements for reduced weight and extreme high speeds, a small, strong and stiff wing was essential. Carbon fiber was chosen because of its strength to weight ratio, which is generally 25% lighter than E-glass as well as 2 times stiffer.
Typical ply schedules for the airframe will range from three to as many as seventy plies of carbon fiber, depending on the load requirements. These carbon fibers are typically woven materials; however, spar caps, longerons, and roll over structures are fabricated with uni-directional carbon.
To complete the sandwich structure, only Nomex honeycomb core materials are used. The resultant structure is comprised of several layers of woven carbon fiber, a film adhesive layer on each side of the Nomex core, and followed by closeout layers of woven carbon fiber.
The wing compromises a unique blend of an inboard custom airfoil section with a NACA tip section. Also unique for such a high-speed aircraft is the high laminar flow airflow root section, which has a 17% chord thickness. This offers the added benefits of greater strength, greater stiffness and increased fuel volume.

The Lancair IV, IV-P and Propjet were designed for high altitude operations and they are in their element when cruising up in the flight levels. To achieve this high altitude performance, the wing has relatively high aspect ratio that can be further enhanced with addition of the extended winglets. The wing offers a higher wing loading but has full slotted Fowler flaps to reduce stall speed and improve slow speed handling. The Fowler flaps operate in roller tracks that are completely hidden when the flaps are retracted. When the flaps are extended, they add considerable wing area to enhance slow speed handling. Take off flaps (full aft extension and 10 degrees down) can be deployed at speeds as high as 200 mph (174 kts). This Fowler flap system is fully electro/hydraulic and is completely installed in every Fastbuild kit.
A winglet option increases span and adds to roll coupling for greater stability up in the thinner air of the flight levels. Winglets are interchangeable in a matter of minutes with the standard wing tip. In addition, a speed brake option to enable quick descents without reducing power is offered.
The ailerons are 15% of chord-long and thin.
Fuel is carried in the “wet wings” which are integral with the structure. Typical fuel is 90 US gallons with options for adding more fuel bays in the wing and increasing volume up to approximately 110 US gallons for the reciprocating engine and 125 or 150 US gallons for the turboprop, Propjet. The Propjet wings will hold 115 US gallons and the kit includes a header tank that holds an additional 10 US gallons. There is an optional header tank that will hold 35 US gallons available. Fuel tanks are selected from the single valve that offers left, right, and off.
The “IV” has a very roomy cabin area measuring 46 inches across the front seats and 43 inches in the back. Cabin height is 48 inches. Front seats have ground adjustable seat backs and large side arm rests that add to the overall comfort. The cabin door offers an inflatable seal.

On approach the one-piece, 3/8″ thick windshield provides excellent visibility. The large side windows are 3/16″ thick on standard IV’s and 1/4″ thick on the pressurized IV-P. Dual side sticks are standard.

The gear system is electro/hydraulic and includes an accumulator thereby providing a constant pressure of 1100 psi. In addition, the Fowler flap system uses the same electro/hydraulic pressure for operation. As a gear down backup, a hand pump is supplied which draws hydraulic fluid from a dedicated portion of the reservoir. All airframe kits contain this complete gear and actuation system. The main gear is made of tubular 4340 steel. The main gearbox is pre-aligned truss assembly that is already installed for you. These gear legs retract using a rack and pinion system. Large 600×6 wheels and heavy-duty brakes are standard. The nose gear is a premium air/oleo strut designed with an internal shimmy dampener and alignment system. Steering is via differential braking.
The Lancair IV and IV-P, are designed around the Continental TSIO-550. With the “IV’s” performance optimized for the flight levels, this twin turbocharged, twin intercooled engine delivers 75% power up to 25,000 ft. with true airspeeds of 330 to 345 mph. An option is the IO-550 engine.

The Lancair IV was built in 1.5 years and introduced at Oshkosh in 1990. The first prototype and kits were not pressurized. On a Friday in July, 1990, Lance and Dave Morss took off for Oshkosh, flying at 19,000 feet and using oxygen, the cruise speed was 300 kts. About 25 Lancair IVs were sold that year at Oshkosh. The Lancair IV was fast and Dave Morss went on to set many records with it such as flying from Los Angeles, CA to Florida in 6 hours and 2 minutes at 24,000 ft. averaging 385 mph.

In 1998 a 350 hp Lancair IV held the San Francisco-Denver record at an average speed of 62 kph. At that time, of the 400 sold, 70 were flyng. The IV (TC LC30) kit price in 1989 was $52,400 for a non-pressurized standard-build kit, $100,800 for a pressurized fast-build kit and the IV-P pressurized version was $38,500 (1989), $76,500-80,200 (1998).

The “IV” is qualified to race in the unlimited category at the Reno National Air Races, and at Reno, the “IV” has again set lap speed records in the new Sport Class. Test pilot Dave Morss has piloted the IV at all Reno races, setting course records on more than one occasion and has set many internationally recognized world speed records.

Walter, in the Czech Republic has worked with Lancair to complete the installation of the Walter 601E engine into the Lancair IV-P airframe. Hartzell as well as Avia propeller have designed propellers for this engine installation.

For a little more power and speed, Lancair introduced the Propjet in 2000. This aircraft is designed for the Walter 601E, 750hp turboprop engine. This engine features two basic parts: the gas generator and power section. The gas generator consists of two stage axial and one stage centrifugal compressor, annular combustor and one stage axial turbine. An accessory gearbox with instruments necessary for engine operation and power control is situated on the rear part of the compressor air intake casing. An oil tank is an integral part of the accessory gearbox. The power section is mounted on the front part of the gas generator. This section consists of one stage axial turbine, exhaust system (exhaust is optional) and two stage reduction gearbox with a torquemeter and propeller shaft. The propeller governor is situated on the reduction gearbox and controls the hydraulic actuated propeller including the reverse thrust angle adjustment. The engine is equipped with a system of electronic limiters, which protects the engine against overload. The pressurization comes from a low pressure bleed air port that has been installed on the engine. This allows air into the cabin through the mixer box installed on the firewall. The pilot operated valve and mixer box control the quantity and temperature of air into the cockpit. Typical cruise with the turboprop Walter engine at 26,000 feet is 370 mph.

There are 4 approved propellers for the IV, IV-P and Propjet – the composite three or four-blade by MT-Propeller, the Avia propeller and the aluminum three blade by Hartzell. These propellers have been fully stress/strain tested in flight by the manufacturer on IV’s and are fully approved. They are all 76″ in diameter, which provides ground clearance of approximately 10 inches.

The IV-P is structurally quite different and is designed to operate with 5.0 psi cabin differential pressure. The structure again has been fully FEA analyzed and tested; ground tested to over 10 psi with no problems encountered. The pressurization system is custom developed by Dukes Inc., and it is fully automatic.

Hollmann designed a Lancair IV with a PT6A-27 gas turbine engine for Ty Ross. Ty flew his aircraft to Oshkosh but he had to make 5 landings to refuel. The LIV was designed to carry 90 gallons in the wing and with a fuel burn of over 35 gph the range is not long. Ty states that it has a climb rate of over 4,500 fpm.

In 1991 in the Philippines, Pacific Aeronautical, the new name of ACT relocated to Cebu City and started producing airframes for Lancair 320 and Lancair IV, the new higher-powered, four-seat version. Also in 1991, the PADC started assembling Lancair IVs and Lancair ESs ordered by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Gallery

Lancair IV
Engine: Cont. TSIO-550
Horsepower: 350 h.p. @ 2600 rpm
Propeller: 3 blade, constant speed
Length: 25 ft.
Wingspan: 35.5 ft.
Wing Area: 98 sq. ft. (108 sq. ft. with optional winglets)
Aspect Ratio: 9:1
Wing Loading: 36.2 lbs/sq. ft., 32.2 lbs/sq ft. (with winglets)
G Loading: +4.4, -2.2 G’s (utility);+3.8, -2.0 G’s (normal)
Empty Weight: 2,000 lbs.
Gross Weight: 3,550 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 90 gal. (110 gal. with extended tanks)
Useful Load: 1,550 lbs.
Baggage Capacity: 150 lbs.
Seats: 4
Cabin Width: 46 in. (front) 43 in. (rear)
Cabin Height: 48 in.
Cruise: 330 mph @ 24,000 ft. (typical)
Fuel Consumption: 18-22 gph (typical)
Maximum Range: 1550 sm (with reserves @ 8,000 ft.)
Endurance: 6 hours
Rate of Climb: 2,000 fpm (solo), 1,500 fpm (gross)
Takeoff Distance: 1,500 ft. (gross @ sea level)
Landing Roll: 1,900 ft.
Stall Speed: 75 mph (dirty); 73 mph (dirty and with optional winglets)
Cross Wind Landing: 21 mph component

Lancair IV
Engine: Continental TSIO-550-B, 350 hp.
Speed max: 315 mph.
Cruise: 300 mph.
Range: 1450 sm.
Stall: 75 mph.
ROC: 2600 fpm.
Take-off dist: 1200 ft.
Landing dist: 1400 ft.
Service ceiling: 29,000 ft.
HP range: 280-350.
Fuel cap: 82 USG.
Weight empty: 1900 lbs.
Gross: 3200 lbs.
Height: 8 ft.
Length: 25 ft.
Wing span: 30.2 ft.
Wing area: 98 sq.ft.
Seats: 4.
Landing gear: retractable nose wheel.
Cockpit width: 46 in.

Lancair IV
Engine: Continental TIO-540K, 350 hp.
Cruise: 300 kt @ 23,000 ft.
Range: 1150nm.
Cockpit width: 46 in.

Lancair IV
Engine: Continental TSIO-550-E, 350 hp.
Speed max: 335 mph.
Cruise: 335 mph.
Range: 1450 sm.
Stall: 75 mph.
ROC: 2600 fpm.
Take-off dist: 1200 ft.
Landing dist: 1400 ft.
Service ceiling: 29,000 ft.
HP range: 280-350.
Fuel cap: 82 USG.
Weight empty: 1900 lbs.
Gross: 3200 lbs.
Height: 8 ft.
Length: 25 ft.
Wing span: 30.2 ft.
Wing area: 98 sq.ft.
Seats: 4.
Landing gear: retractable nose wheel.
Cockpit width: 46 in.

Lancair IV
Engine: Continental TSIO, 350 hp
Wing span: 9.2 m
Wing area: 9 sq.m
MAUW: 1450 kg
Empty weight: 862 kg
Fuel capacity: 310 lt
Max speed: 539 kph
Cruise speed: 426 kph
Minimum speed: 121 kph
Climb rate: 13 m/s
Seats: 4
Fuel consumption: 70 lt/hr

Lancair IV
Engine: Continental TSIO, 350 hp
Wing span: 9.2 m
Wing area: 9 sq.m
MAUW: 1450 kg
Empty weight: 862 kg
Fuel capacity: 310 lt
Max speed: 539 kph
Cruise speed: 426 kph
Minimum speed: 121 kph
Climb rate: 13 m/s
Seats: 4
Fuel consumption: 70 lt/hr

Lancair IV-P
Engine: Cont. TSIO-550
Horsepower: 350 h.p. @ 2600 rpm
Propeller: 3 blade, constant speed
Length: 25 ft.
Wingspan: 35.5 ft.
Pressurization: 5 psi
Wing Area: 98 sq. ft. (108 sq. ft. with optional winglets)
Aspect Ratio: 9:1
Wing Loading: 36.2 lbs/sq. ft., 32.2 lbs/sq ft. (with winglets)
G Loading: +4.4, -2.2 G’s (utility);+3.8, -2.0 G’s (normal)
Empty Weight: 2,200 lbs.
Gross Weight: 3,550 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 90 gal. (110 gal. with extended tanks)
Useful Load: 1,350 lbs.
Baggage Capacity: 150 lbs.
Seats: 4
Cabin Width: 46 in. (front) 43 in. (rear)
Cabin Height: 48 in.
Cruise: 330 mph @ 24,000 ft. (typical)
Fuel Consumption: 18-22 gph (typical)
Maximum Range: 1550 sm (with reserves @ 8,000 ft.)
Endurance: 6 hours
Rate of Climb: 2,000 fpm (solo), 1,500 fpm (gross)
Takeoff Distance: 1,500 ft. (gross @ sea level)
Landing Roll: 1,900 ft.
Stall Speed: 75 mph (dirty); 73 mph (dirty and with optional winglets)
Cross Wind Landing: 21 mph component

Lancair IV-P
Engine: Continental TSIO-550-E, 350 hp.
Speed max: 335 mph.
Cruise: 335 mph.
Range: 1400 sm.
Stall: 75 mph.
ROC: 2600 fpm.
Take-off dist: 1500 ft.
Landing dist: 1700 ft.
Service ceiling: 29,000 ft.
HP range: 280-350.
Fuel cap: 82 USG.
Weight empty: 2200 lbs.
Gross: 3200 lbs.
Height: 8 ft.
Length: 25 ft.
Wing span: 30.2 ft.
Wing area: 98 sq.ft.
Seats: 4.
Landing gear: retractable nose wheel.
Cockpit width: 46 in.

Lancair IVP
Engine: Cont. TSIO-550B1B, 350 hp
TBO: 1600 hrs
Propeller: Const. spd.
Landing gear type: Tri/Retr.
Gross weight: 3200 lb
Empty weight, std: 2200 lb
Useful load, std: 1000lb
Fuel: 88 USG
Wingspan: 30.2 ft. (w/winglets: 32.6)
Overall length: 25 ft.
Height: 8 ft.
Wing area: 98 sq. ft (w/winglets: 108 sq. ft)
Seating capacity: 4
Cabin width: 46 in
Cabin height: 48 in
Baggage capacity: 150 lb
Cruise speed: 75% power: 300 kt
Max range (w/ reserve): 75% power: 1050 nm
Fuel consumption 75% power: 18 USgph
Stall speed (gear, flaps down): 73 kt
Best rate of climb: 2500 fpm
Service ceiling: 25,000 ft
Takeoff ground roll: 800 ft
Landing ground roll: 1700 ft

Lancair Legacy

The successor to Lancair’s two-place line, the Legacy represents the culmination of more than a decade of research, testing and invaluable input from Lancair builders and fliers. Redesigned from the tail forward, it’s bigger, faster and easier to build.
Lancair designed a new wing planform, and to keep area to a minimum, the wing has a double taper to maximize the lift distribution from root to tip. This eliminates all “washout” and creates extensive laminar flow across more than 50% of the surface. The low-drag laminar “bucket” is also wider than before, further increasing overall performance. The result is very carefully “tuned” wing design, which enhances overall aircraft performance.
A relatively thick chord was employed which aids strength while providing room for adequate fuel (up to 66 gallons). This wing also had to swallow the new larger 5.00 x 5 main gear ties without gear door modifications.
The addition of simplified Fowler flaps further increases the wing’s maximum lift coefficient to enhance this low speed handling.

Lancair engineers completely redesigned the the cabin. A wider and taller cabin now offers more shoulder and headroom. Plus, the larger canopy affords unobstructed visibility and outstanding views in all directions. The roomier baggage area makes it possible to stow everything including golf bags and fishing rods.
The Lancair Legacy offers a 43.5-inch cabin width and 44.5-inch height. The pilot and passenger sit in a normal upright position.

The Legacy’s new fuselage is now able to accommodate a 310 h.p. Continental 1O-550. The Legacy will cruise at 280 mph at 10,000 ft. The Legacy’s climb rate is +2200 fpm.

To trailer the aircraft, the wings can be removed while the aircraft remains fully on its landing gear. Lancair also works closely with the engineers at Teledyne Continental Motors and Textron Lycoming, Hartzell and MT-Propellers to refine the power plant installation and to perfect the union of engine and propeller to the airframe. Many engine options – from 160 hp to 310 hp – can be accommodated including the Lycoming 1O-360 and the Continental 1O-550.

Fuel is carried in the wings – the fuel tanks are integral within the wing bays. Standard fuel tanks have a 66 US gallon capacity. The fuel selector is per FAA standards, allowing for either left, right or off. (The “both” position is not recommended for low-wing aircraft.) As a safety feature, each wing tank incorporates a “slosh bay” to prevent unporting of the fuel pickup in the event of uncoordinated maneuvers such as during slips. The fuel valve (for Continental engines) also returns “vapor,” or return fuel, back to the fuel tank in use. Custom fuel quantity monitoring systems are available as options.

Sitting three inches taller than the 320/360 for more ground and prop clearance, the Legacy’s main landing gear incorporates air/oleo struts with 5.00 x 5 main gear tires. The nose gear is also the premium air/oleo strut with internal viscous shimmy dampening. Protected from the environment, the internalized dampening system provides longer service life, and there are no scissor links to wear out. Steering is accomplished by differential braking, and the rudder becomes effective at taxi speeds as low as 20 m.p.h. A tire guide strap assures proper retraction of the nose wheel into the gear. The retraction method is Lancair’s electro/hydraulic system.

The Legacy’s major airframe is constructed of composite materials. Cured at 270 degrees Fahrenheit under vacuum pressure, these composites are NASA tested.

The high-temperature, pre-impregnated carbon fiber and/or fiberglass systems combined with Nomex/honeycomb core materials allows the Legacy’s sculptured fuselage and double-taper wing to have no drag-producing rivets or lap joints. Corrosion resistant, a nearly infinite fatigue life and virtually non-flammable, composite materials also extend the life of the airframe.

Lancair’s fastbuild kit, accessory catalog service, avionics shop, free technical assistance and builder assist program make the assembly process quick and efficient enjoyable. To make wing assembly simpler, the main spars and the ribs are “pre-installed” into the wing skins. Then, wing attachments bushings that accurately establish the wing dihedral are pre-installed. Flaps and ailerons are completed and most of the control systems are installed.

Darryl Greenamyer raced a Legacy in the Sport Class at the 40th Annual Reno Races. Greenamyer achieved 350mph during qualifying laps and won the Gold race.

Legacy’s achieved 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the Gold Class and 1st in the Silver Class that year.

LEGACY FG
The Legacy Fixed Gear kitplane is a simple, economical version of the retractable gear Legacy. Other than the permanent down and locked wheels, the fixed gear Legacy is very similar to its retractable gear counterpart. Sharing the fuselage, wing and tail with the retractable gear Legacy, the Legacy FG is designed to accept a four cylinder Lycoming engine with a conventional instrument panel to lower costs and reduce build time. Fitted with a 210 hp Lycoming IO or TNIO-390X powerplant, the Legacy FG has a typical cruise of over 225 mph and a range of more than 1,300 statute miles. The FG was available in a carbon version that will accept the TCM IO550N.

Legacy FG

The fixed gear Lancair Legacy FG introduced at Sun’n Fun 2003. The overall configuration of the airframe is basically the same for both aircraft, but the fixed gear version is constructed primarily of fiberglass rather than carbon fiber. Additionally, Lancair designed the kit to accept four-cylinder Lycoming engines as well as simplified panels and interior appointments to lower costs and speed up building times.

To make wing assembly simpler and more manageable, the main spars and the ribs are “pre-installed” into the wing skins. Then, wing attachments bushings that accurately establish the wing dihedral are pre-installed. Flaps and ailerons are completed and most of the control systems are installed for you. The remaining installations and assemblies are simple and very straightforward.

Gallery

Legacy FG
Engine: Lycoming IO-390, 200 h.p. @ 2700 rpm
Propeller: 2 blade, constant speed
Length: 22 ft.
Wingspan: 25.5 ft.
Wing Area: 82.5 sq. ft.
Wing Loading: 23 lbs./sq. ft.
Aspect Ratio: 7.95:1
G Loading: +4.4, -2.2 G’s (utility); +3.8, -2.0 G’s (normal)
Empty Weight: 1,450 lbs.
Gross Weight: 2,200 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 65 USgal.
Useful Load: 750 lbs.
Baggage Capacity: 90 lbs.
Seats: 2
Cockpit Length: 63″
Cockpit Width: 43.5″
Cockpit Height: 44.5 in.
Cruise: 215 mph @ 8,000 ft.
Stall Speed: 65 mph (dirty)
Takeoff Distance: 1,500 ft. (gross @ sea level)
Landing Roll: 900 ft.
Cross Wind Landing: 21 mph component
Fuel Consumption: 11.5 gph
Maximum Range: 1,450 sm
Rate of Climb: 1,700 fpm (solo), 1,200 fpm (gross)

Legacy FG
Engine: Lycoming TNIO-390, 210 h.p. @ 2700 rpm
Propeller: 2 blade, constant speed
Length: 22 ft.
Wingspan: 25.5 ft.
Wing Area: 82.5 sq. ft.
Wing Loading: 23 lbs./sq. ft.
Aspect Ratio: 7.95:1
G Loading: +4.4, -2.2 G’s (utility); +3.8, -2.0 G’s (normal)
Empty Weight: 1,450 lbs.
Gross Weight: 2,200 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 65 USgal.
Useful Load: 750 lbs.
Baggage Capacity: 90 lbs.
Seats: 2
Cockpit Length: 63″
Cockpit Width: 43.5″
Cockpit Height: 44.5 in.
Cruise: 225 mph @ 8,000 ft
Stall Speed: 65 mph (dirty)
Takeoff Distance: 1,500 ft. (gross @ sea level)
Landing Roll: 900 ft.
Cross Wind Landing: 21 mph component
Fuel Consumption: 12.5 gph
Maximum Range: 1,550 sm
Rate of Climb: 1,700 fpm (solo), 1,200 fpm (gross)

Legacy
Engine: Cont. IO-550-N, 310 hp @
2700 rpm
Propeller: 3 blade, constant speed
Length: 22 ft.
Wingspan: 25.5 ft.
Wing Area: 82.5 sq. ft.
Wing Loading: 23 lbs./sq. ft.
Aspect Ratio: 7.95:1
G Loading: +4.4, -2.2 G’s (utility); +3.8, -2.0 G’s (normal)
Empty Weight: 1,500 lbs.
Gross Weight: 2,200 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 65 USgal.
Useful Load: 700 lbs.
Baggage Capacity: 90 lbs.
Cabin Width: 43.5 in.
Seats: 2
Cockpit Length: 63″
Cockpit Width: 43.5″
Cockpit Height: 44.5 in.
Cruise: 276 mph @ 8,000 ft. (typical)
Stall Speed: 65 mph (dirty)
Service Ceiling: 18,000 ft.
Takeoff Distance: 850 ft. (gross @ sea level)
Landing Roll: 900 ft.
Cross Wind Landing: 21 mph component
Fuel Consumption: 13.5-15 gph (typical)
Maximum Range: 1,150 sm (with reserves @ 8,000 ft.)
Rate of Climb: 2,700 fpm (solo, IO-550); 2000 fpm (gross)

Legacy
Engine: Lycoming IO-540, 260 h.p. @ 2700 rpm
Propeller: 3 blade, constant speed
Length: 22 ft.
Wingspan: 25.5 ft.
Wing Area: 82.5 sq. ft.
Wing Loading: 23 lbs./sq. ft.
Aspect Ratio: 7.95:1
G Loading: +4.4, -2.2 G’s (utility); +3.8, -2.0 G’s (normal)
Empty Weight: 1,500 lbs.
Gross Weight: 2,200 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 65 USgal.
Useful Load: 700 lbs.
Baggage Capacity: 90 lbs.
Cabin Width: 43.5 in.
Seats: 2
Cockpit Length: 63″
Cockpit Width: 43.5″
Cockpit Height: 44.5 in.
Cruise: 276 mph @ 8,000 ft. (typical)
Stall Speed: 65 mph (dirty)
Service Ceiling: 18,000 ft.
Takeoff Distance: 850 ft. (gross @ sea level)
Landing Roll: 900 ft.
Cross Wind Landing: 21 mph component
Fuel Consumption: 13.5-15 gph (typical)
Maximum Range: 1,150 sm (with reserves @ 8,000 ft.)
Rate of Climb: 2000 fpm (gross)

Lamson L.101 Air Tractor

A 1953 agricultural aircraft designed by R T Lamson. Two crop sprayers and seeders with a predominant upper gull-wing were built, registered N31237 and N31238. On the former, wing roots served as fuel tanks, the latter had a metal-covered fuselage with internal fuel tank. Wing units were interchangeable on both prototypes, as were all six tail units.

The first flight was on 10 December 1953, piloted by R T Lamson, a former test pilot for Boeing Co.

Production ceased in 1955.

Engine: P&W R-985, 450 hp
Wing span: 33’7″
Length: 26’5″
Height: 10 ft 8 in
Wing area: 350 sq.ft
Empty weight: 3200 lb
Loaded weight: 5600 lb
Useful load: 2400 lb
Cruise speed: 70-90 mph
Stall speed: 35 mph
ROC: 450 fpm
Hopper load: 360 USgal
Price: c.$15,000 (equipped)
Seats: 1

La Mouette Samson

The La Mouette Samson is a French electric-powered ultralight trike, designed by Gérard Thevenot and produced by La Mouette of Fontaine-lès-Dijon. The aircraft was designed to comply with the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale microlight category as a single- or two-seater, and also to comply with the US FAR 103 Ultralight Vehicles rules when flown as a single-seater.

It features a cable-braced hang glider-style high-wing, weight-shift controls, a two-seats-in-tandem open cockpit, tricycle landing gear and a single electric motor in pusher configuration.

The aircraft is made from bolted-together aluminum tubing, with its single surface wing covered in Dacron sailcloth. Its wing is supported by a single tube-type kingpost and uses an “A” frame weight-shift control bar. Powerplant options are electric motors of 14 hp (10 kW) for solo use and a 19 hp (14 kW) motor for dual use. Due to its simple design the Samson can be folded up and stowed in the trunk of an automobile, with the wing carried on the roof rack. The aircraft has an empty weight of 70 kg (154 lb) and a gross weight of 220 kg (485 lb), giving a useful load of 150 kg (331 lb).
The aircraft can be fitted with up to three batteries that give an endurance of 40 minutes at full power, or 80 minutes at normal cruise. The standard wing supplied is a 19 m2 (200 sq ft) La Mouette design.

The aircraft is supplied as a complete ready-to-fly-aircraft.

Powerplant: 1 × Electric motor, 14 kW (19 hp)
Batteries: up to three of 40 Ah capacity
Wing area: 19 m2 (200 sq ft)
Empty weight: 70 kg (154 lb)
Propellers: 2-bladed composite
Endurance: 40 minutes at full power
Rate of climb: 1.0 m/s (200 ft/min)
Crew: one
Capacity: one passenger, maximum of 150 kg (331 lb) total

La Mouette SR

The SR structure can be dismantled for easy transport.

SR 210
Empty weight: 20 kg
Engine: Solo, 12 hp
Reduction: 1:2.5
Prop diameter: 95 cm
Fuel capacity: 6.5 lt
Price (1998): £2800

SR 210 GH
Empty weight: 22 kg
Engine: Solo, 12 hp
Reduction: 1:2.5
Prop diameter: 123 cm
Fuel capacity: 6.5 lt
Price (1998): £3750

SR 250
Empty weight: 29 kg
Engine: Zenoah, 22 hp
Reduction: 1:2.5
Prop diameter: 123 cm
Fuel capacity: 10 lt
Price (1998): £3600

SR 250 Bi
Engine: Zenoah, 22 hp
Reduction: 1:2.5
Prop diameter: 123 cm
Fuel capacity: 10 lt
Price (1998): £3999

Lambert Aircraft Engineering Mission M212

The Mission M212 is a single engine light aircraft of conventional configuration. It has an unswept straight-tapered low wing. The fuselage provides side-by-side seating and has sufficient room to accommodate four adults. In the initial design stages, significant attention was paid to visibility, comfort and ergonomics. The single piece forward hinging canopy provides excellent visibility in level flight as well as in turns. In addition, the clean arrangement ensures a good and water proof seal and keeps aerodynamic noise low. Both the seats and rudder pedals are adjustable. Elevator and aileron control is by sticks. The aircraft is standard equipped with full dual controls.

Control surfaces are conventional with single slotted flaps and an all-moving horizontal tail. The main landing gear consists of a cantilever leaf spring and the steerable nosewheel is of the telescopic oleo-pneumatic type. The airframe is all composite. Construction is mainly of glass fibre and epoxy. Carbon reinforcements are used in spars and longerons where additional stiffness is required.

The development of the Mission M212 started in mid 1992 with a thorough study, which investigated the impact of a light aircraft’s engine on the efficiency of the aircraft as a whole, and which evaluated the potential use of several engines as alternative to the traditional engines.

The project moved to the Cranfield Institute of Technology (now Cranfield University) in October 1992 where the design was started after an extensive market analysis. The specification of the M212-series are mainly based on the results of this market research.

In April 1993 the conceptual design of the Mission was started. A full scale mock-up of the fuselage was built in July 1993 to check for cockpit size, accessibility, visibility and ergonomics. In September 1993 a 1/14 wind tunnel model was built and extensive wind tunnel testing was done during the following months. The conceptual design was completed in January 1994 and the preliminary design in May 1994. Although the Mission was initially not intended for the competition, in the same month, the conceptual design was declared a joint winner in the first stage of the Light Aircraft Design Competition organised by the Royal Aeronautical Society.

The structural design of the Mission was completed by July 1995, after which final drawings were produced. The complete design file of the M212-100, (at that time) the two-seater version, was submitted for the second stage of the Design Competition, and reached a first place.

The construction of tooling was started in January 1996. Fuselage, wing and tailplane plugs were built, of which a set of female moulds were taken. Next, development was concentrated on the wings. All tooling to produce and assemble the components for the wing structure was built.

Concurrently a structural testing programme was set up. Composite materials testing was started early in 1997. Initially work focused on the development and testing of time-saving, reliable and durable manufacturing and assembly methods. Alongside the test work, manufacturing parameters, processes, component lay-up and assembly procedures, quality standards and a quality control system were worked out. In contrast to most proof-of-concept prototypes, the Mission prototype is not a ‘hand carved’ example. Instead all components are produced from production tooling and assembled in the jigs that will be used for series production. In December 1998 a milestone in the development of the Mission was achieved when an assembled wing structure was loaded to the design ultimate load (8.55 g) at 900 kg (2 000 lb), the MAUW (max. all up weight) of the M212-100.

With the prototype wings and control surfaces completed by mid 1999, the work on the fuselage structure was tackled. Again, for all composite parts, moulds were made and an assembly jig for the fuselage was built. The jig ensures correct alignment of the components during assembly. As of July 2001, all structural subassemblies (i.e. wings, fuselage, empennage and control surfaces) were ready for rigging. A jig for matching the wings to the fuselage with the proper incidence and dihedral was built.

While the work on the structure was taking place, the development of the aircraft systems steadily progressed and detail drawings were produced. Subsequently, components for controls and fuel system were manufactured and the subassemblies were ready for installation.

In January 2002, the structural work was finished. With the fuselage standing on the main landing gear, the wings and control surfaces had been rigged and the control systems had been installed. This milestone was celebrated with a roll-out of the Mission M212 prototype on February 8th.

In late February 2002, the firewall forward section was tackled. The engine mount was built. A plug for the cowlings was built, of which female moulds were taken which in turn allowed the cowlings to be made. The prototype was moved to another facility by the end of May for painting. The aircraft was displayed for the first time at the PFA Rally at Cranfield on 21-23 June 2002.

In September and October 2002, structural testing was carried out on the prototype fuselage. Testing was in accordance with FAR-23/JAR-23 airworthiness standards. Stiffness of the structure proved to be very high. Behaviour was entirely to the expectations with no sign of cracks, buckling or wrinkling.

Subsequently the engine was bolted to the engine mount and all accessories onthe engine were installed and connected. Nosewheel steering was also installed. Various improvements were worked out such a redesigned control system for the elevator trim, which meets FAR-23/JAR-23 requirements.

Between December 2002 and June 2003, significant progress was made with installation and completion of various systems and equipment such as cabin heating/ventilation, electrical system, instruments, adjustable front seats and interior. The main landing gear was redesigned to increase its stiffness and raise the maximum landing weight.

Prototype G-XFLY was on display all day on the Grote Markt (Grand Place) in Kortrijk on 25 June, where it attracted lots of attention of public and press. After returning from the PFA Rally 2003, the aircraft moved to Hangar 63 at Kortrijk-Wevelgem airfield for ground testing and preparations for flight testing. With the aircraft now permanantly assembled, further testing was carried out on control systems. Full ground vibration tests were run in February 2004. The aircraft was inspected several times and subsequent improvements or modifications were designed and integrated. The final version of the design work, the test reports and the JAR-23 compliance list was submitted to PFA Engineering, where a massive effort was undertaken to review drawings and double check all the stressing.
On 23 June, the Mission M212 prototype G-XFLY was given a final inspection. That evening, the inspector, Finbar Colson, signed off all paperwork and declared the aircraft fit for flight. All documents were sent to the PFA headquarters, together with the application for a Permit to Test.

The aircraft was trailered to Cranfield where it was prepared for its maiden flight. The Permit to Test came on 7 July, but bad weather prevented us to fly the aircraft before the PFA Rally two days later.

The first flight was made on Tuesday 13 July 2004 with Roger Bailey, test pilot at Cranfield University, at the controls. The flight lasted 40 minutes and the aircraft behaved very much as expected.

During the following months, the Mission M212 prototype was flown from Cranfield for flight testing. Flight testing was concluded in april 2005 with PFA type approval.

Aircraft performance varies with type of propeller fitted. Engines may be limited to 2500 rpm for optimum noise reduction.

Mission M212
Engine: DeltaHawk DH200A4 XP-360, 147 kW (200 HP) at 2700 rpm
Fuel type: Jet Fuel, Diesel
Wing span: 9.80 m (32 ft 2 in)
Wing area: 12.00 sq.m (129 sq.ft)
Aspect ratio: 7.7
Length: 7.40 m (24 ft 3 in)
Height: 2.90 m (9 ft 6 in)
Tailplane span: 3.20 m (10 ft 6 in)
Wheeltrack: 2.80 m (9 ft 2 in)
Baggage capacity: 200 lt (7 cu ft) approx.
Cabin width: 1.12 m (44 in)
Cabin height: 1.25 m (49 in)
Fuel capacity (std): 160 lt (42 us gal)
Fuel capacity (opt): up to 280 lt (72 us gal)
Never exceed speed: 183 kt (338km/h)
Limit load factors: 3.8/-1.9
Empty weight: 735 kg (1620 lb)
Max. all up weight: 1150 kg (2535 lb)
Max. level speed at S/L: 144 kt (268 km/h)
Max. S/L rate of climb: 1020 ft/min (5.1 m/s)
75% cruise at 8000 ft: 141 kt (261 km/h)
60% cruise at 8000 ft: 130 kt (241 km/h)
Range at 75% (std fuel): 655 nm (1215 km)
Range at 60% (std fuel): 760 nm (1410 km)
Range at 60% (opt. fuel): 1360 nm (2520 km)
Fuel flow at 75%: 32 l/h (8.5 us gal/h)
Fuel flow at 60%: 26 l/h (6.8 us gal/h)
Stall speed, full flaps: 53 kts (98 km/h)
T-O ground roll: 250 m (820 ft)

Mission M212
Engine: Lycoming O-360, 133 kW (180 HP) at 2700 rpm
Fuel type: Avgas 100LL, Unleaded mogas
Wing span: 9.80 m (32 ft 2 in)
Wing area: 12.00 sq.m (129 sq.ft)
Aspect ratio: 7.7
Length: 7.40 m (24 ft 3 in)
Height: 2.90 m (9 ft 6 in)
Tailplane span: 3.20 m (10 ft 6 in)
Wheeltrack: 2.80 m (9 ft 2 in)
Baggage capacity: 200 lt (7 cu ft) approx.
Cabin width: 1.12 m (44 in)
Cabin height: 1.25 m (49 in)
Fuel capacity (std): 160 lt (42 us gal)
Fuel capacity (opt): up to 280 lt (72 us gal)
Never exceed speed: 183 kt (338km/h)
Limit load factors: 3.8/-1.9
Empty weight: 722 kg (1590 lb)
Max. all up weight: 1150 kg (2535 lb)
Max. level speed at S/L: 140 kt (260 km/h)
Max. S/L rate of climb: 900 ft/min (4.5 m/s)
75% cruise at 8000 ft: 137 kt (254 km/h)
60% cruise at 8000 ft: 126 kt (232 km/h)
Range at 75% (std fuel): 480 nm (890 km)
Range at 60% (std fuel): 550 nm (1020 km)
Range at 60% (opt. fuel): 1000 nm (1850 km)
Fuel flow at 75%: 42 l/h (11.0 us gal/h)
Fuel flow at 60%: 34 l/h (8.9 us gal/h)
Stall speed, full flaps: 53 kts (98 km/h)
T-O ground roll: 280 m (920 ft)

Lambert Aircraft Engineering Mission M108

The Mission M108 Light Sport Aircraft is a two seater single engine light sport aircraft. It has an unswept untapered high wing. The fuselage provides comfortable side-by-side seating. Two upwards hinging doors provide access to the cabin. The large transparent areas of the cabin provide excellent visibility in level flight as well as in turns. Both seats are individually adjustable. Elevator and aileron control is by sticks. The aircraft is standard equipped with full dual controls.

The fuselage is a welded space frame, which is fabric covered. High strength steel tubing is used throughout. The wings are of aluminium construction and also fabric covered.
Control surfaces are conventional with single slotted flaps, pushrod operated elevator and cable operated rudder and ailerons. The main landing gear consists of composite cantilever leaf springs. The Mission M108 is available as either a tailwheel or a nosewheel version.

The front mounted ULPower UL260i engine produces 85 HP at 2850 rpm and drives a three blade ground adjustable propeller. The four stroke four cylinder engine is air cooled and features FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control).

With a large choice of options, instruments and avionics, your Mission M108 can be customised to meet your personal preferences.
Depending on the applicable national regulations, the Mission M108 is available as a kit built aircraft or as a ready to fly factory built aircraft.

Mission M108
Engine: ULPower UL260I, 62 kW (85 HP) at 2850 rpm
Wing span: 9.32 m (30 ft 6 in)
Wing area: 11.8 sq.m (127 sq.ft)
Aspect ratio: 7.4
Length: 6.10 m (20 ft)
Height TD: 2.15 m (7 ft 1 in)
Height NW: 1.95 m (6 ft 6 in)
Width wings folded: 2.60 m (8 ft 7 in)
Wheeltrack: 1.75 m (5 ft 10 in)
Max. all up weight: 1320 lbs (600 kg))
Empty weight: 680-700 lbs (310-320 kg)
Fuel capacity: 78 lt standard
Fuel capacity: 110 lt long range
Baggage capacity: 40 kg (90 lbs)
Never exceed speed: 112 kt (210 km/h )
Max. level speed at S/L: 100 kt (185 km/h)
Max. S/L rate of climb: 850 ft/min (4.25 m/s)
Cruise speed: 80-85 kt (150-160 km/h)
Fuel consumption: 12-15 litres/h
Range (20 min res.): 460 nm (850 km)
Stall speed, full flaps: 39 kts (72 km/h)
T-O ground roll: 80-110 m
Max. crosswind TD: 12 kt
Max. crosswind NW: 16 kt
Limit load factors: +3.8/-1.9
Tailplane span: 2.40 m (8 ft 0 in)
Cabin width: 1.08 m (43 in)

Lambert Aircraft Engineering Mission M106

The Mission M106 is a single engine aircraft conventional configuration certified in ULM category in Belgium and France. It has an unswept untapered high wing. The fuselage provides comfortable side-by-side seating. Two upwards hinging doors provide access to the cabin. The large transparent areas of the cabin provide excellent visibility in level flight as well as in turns. Both the seats and rudder pedals are adjustable. Elevator and aileron control is by sticks. The aircraft is standard equipped with full dual controls.
The Mission M106 is available as a factory built Microlight (ULM/UL) category aircraft with tailwheel or nosewheel. It is standard fitted with a UL260i engine and glass cockpit. 2009 Price: 36900 EURO
The fuselage is a welded space frame, which is fabric covered. High strength steel tubing is used throughout. The wings are of aluminium construction and also fabric covered.
Control surfaces are conventional with single slotted flaps, pushrod operated elevator and cable operated rudder and ailerons. The main landing gear consists of composite cantilever leaf springs. The Mission M106 is available as either a tailwheel or a nosewheel version.
The front mounted ULPower UL260i engine produces 82 HP at 2800 rpm and drives a three blade ground adjustable propeller. The four stroke four cylinder engine is air cooled and features FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control).

A ‘glass cockpit’ is standard in the Mission M106. All flight instruments are integrated in the EFIS. Engine instruments are displayed on the EMS. We offer a choice of two instrument panel layouts with displays of different sizes. Optionally, these avionics can be complemented with navigation and communication equipment, such as a GPS with moving map, VHF radio and ATC transponder.

Engine: UL260I, 60 kW (82 hp) at 2800 rpm
Wing span: 9.32 m (30 ft 6 in)
Wing area: 11.8 sq.m (127 sq.ft)
Aspect ratio: 7.4
Length: 6.10 m (20 ft)
Height TD: 2.15 m (7 ft 1 in)
Height NW: 1.95 m (6 ft 6 in)
Width wings folded: 2.60 m (8 ft 7 in)
Empty weight: 260 kg / 573 lb approx.
Max. all up weight: 450 kg / 472.5 kg
Fuel capacity: 78 litres
Baggage capacity: 40 kg (90 lbs)
Max. level speed at S/L: 100 kt (185 km/h)
Never exceed speed: 112 kt (210 km/h )
Cruise speed: 80-85 kt (150-160 km/h)
Fuel consumption: 11-14 litres/h
Range (20 min res.): 380 nm (700 km)
Stall speed, full flaps: 35 kts (65 km/h / 40 mph)
Max. crosswind TD: 12 kt
Max. crosswind NW: 16 kt
Max. S/L rate of climb: 1000 ft/min (5 m/s)
Glide Ratio: 9
T-O ground roll: 80-110 m
Take-off distance (50ft obstacle): 920 ft / 280 m
Landing distance (50ft obstacle): 980 ft / 300 m
Cabin width: 1.08 m (43 in)
Tailplane span: 2.40 m (8 ft 0in)
Wheeltrack: 1.75 m (5 ft 10 in)
Limit load factors: +4.0/-2.0