Aero Marks Anniversary, Shows New Products (Dec. 20)
VODOCHODY/PRAGUE --- Aero Vodochody presented its brand new Ae 270, a low wing single turboprop engine aircraft, for the first time to its employees, the professional public and the media today at its production facilities.
This multipurpose transport aircraft was developed by IBIS Aerospace Ltd., a 50/50 joint venture established by Aero Vodochody and the Taiwanese Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) in 1997. Several versions of the Ae 270 aircraft have been designed. The basic version will have two pilot seats and eight passenger seats and the salon version is designed for four passengers. A single-pilot cargo version and a version for military and other uses are being prepared. The aircraft will be offered with either a Pratt & Whitney engine and pressurized cabin and retractable gear (Ae 270P) or a Walter engine with a non-pressurized cabin (Ae 270W). The aircraft has a maximum speed of 408 km/hour, weighs 1788 kg when empty and has a useful load of 3300 kg. The Ae 270P's service ceiling is 9700 meters while the Ae 270W's is 8200 meters.
"The Ae 270 aircraft will undoubtedly become a contender worldwide in the executive and medium-range passenger transport aircraft market. But the other versions for the military, healthcare industry, topographical mapping, etc. also promise to attract attention," said Milos Valis, who leads the Ae 270 project at Aero Vodochody. "The fact that the aircraft will be offered in such a variety of modifications enables a wide range of uses which will surely satisfy a number of clients," added Valis.
AIDC produces wings and other components for the aircraft which are assembled at Aero Vodochody. At the moment marketing for the aircraft has been launched in the Czech Republic and at a newly opened office in the United States. An office in the Far East will be opened soon. The prototype's first flight is scheduled for February in the year 2000. Certification will be completed in 2001, when deliveries to customers are also expected. (ends)¤ Ae 270 Makes Debut Appearance
