Geoff Thomas
The Paris air show marks the world debut of the Romanian-built Aerostar Iak-52W, flown by UK advanced aerobatic champion Mark Jefferies and also on display in the static park.
This latest version of the popular Iak-52 aerobatic piston trainer - with a +7/-5g capability - has been developed by Aerostar, following a detailed marketing study among distributors and users worldwide.
Development of the Iak-52W variant began in 1998 and the first aircraft flew in April 1999.
The new version offers the same performance as the Iak-52 but with twice the range.
It also features Western equipment and avionics, allowing greater compatibility and simpler maintenance and spares provision and is priced at around $120,000 depending on equipment levels.
Production is under way at Bacau and customers can opt for either version. The main differences are:
* Two integrated auxiliary fuel tanks in the wing, doubling capacity to 280 litres (74gal);
* Three-bladed Mulbauer MTV-9 propeller;
* Externally accessible baggage and battery compartments;
* Retractable ladder for cockpit access;
* Recessed landing and taxi lights;
* Strobe and navigation lights;
* Strengthened wing tips for optional tip-tanks;
* Aluminium skins on aileron, elevator and rudder - instead of fabric;
* Hydraulic disc brakes and Cleveland wheels and Western tyres;
* Garmin ICOM IC-A200 radio and GTX Transponder with AmeriKing Altitude Encoder;
* NAT AA80-20 intercom;
* Hooker harness seat belt system.
The aircraft at the show is owned by American George Coy who already has several Iak-52s - and he watches closely as the British champion puts it through its paces in the skies over Le Bourget.
Aerostar intends to produce around 30 Iak-30Ws a year for the next five years before assessing whether demand warrants continuing production.
A full set of Western instrumentation is a feature of the Iak-52W.
Source: Flight Daily News
