Liberty Aerospace has finished the design of its XL-2 light aircraft, introducing a number of refinements to the all-composite two-seater, which is derived from the popular Europa kitplane. US certification is set for the third quarter, says the Montrose, Colorado-based company.
Useable fuel tank capacity has been increased to 105litres (28 USgal), with range exceeding 925km (500nm), while retaining the original useful load of 270kg (600lb). The canopy now features a carbonfibre-reinforced roll-cage and a single-action, quick-release mechanism to open both gull-wing doors in an emergency.
A dedicated back-up power supply has been provided for the full-authority digital engine control (FADEC) system on the XL-2's Teledyne Continental IOF-240 engine.
The digital engine information display, supplied by Vision Microsystems, will provide a "percent power" reading for the first time in a certificated light aircraft.
FADEC eliminates the engine's tendency to "kick back" during cranking, says Liberty, and is able to start the engine at speeds as low as 20RPM.
Testing of the Dowty-supplied two-blade, one-piece, carbonfibre propeller has exceeded expectations, the company says.
Source: Flight International
