POLISH manufacturer PZL-Mielec is offering an improved version of its M-28 Skytruck high-wing twin turboprop, which it says will have an increased maximum take-off weight.
The company has so far produced one aircraft with the optional improvements, which increase take-off weight by 500kg to 7,500kg.
The modifications include enlarged fuel tanks, which now extend into the aircraft's wingtips, and reinforced undercarriage and brakes.
A hydraulically operated rear door, and a new emergency side door behind the cockpit, have also been introduced. The standard M-28 received Polish certification in 1995, and is expected to receive US Federal Aviation Regulations certification by the end of this year.
The company already has a contract for eight standard passenger versions of the aircraft and 12 options from a customer in Venezuela. Two have already been delivered, and the remaining six will be handed over by the end of the year.
The Skytruck is a Westernised development of the Antonov An-28, originally developed by Antonov, with Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65B engines with five-bladed Hartzell propellers, and an avionics package from AlliedSignal Bendix/King.
To date, Mielec has produced one prototype and three series aircraft, including those which are already in Venezuela.
Source: Flight International
