Viddler

The SkyCatchers Are Coming... Soon!

It won't be long now... before brand new Cessna LSAs start taking to the sky to help a new generation of aviators take wing. At the 2009 US Sport Aviation Expo, ANN's Jim Campbell caught up with the Cessna folks to get an update on the SkyCatcher program.

At this time, all engineering work and testing of the 162 SkyCatcher is being completed according to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. Remaining flight tests are focused on gathering data and making minor refinements to ensure the aircraft complies with ASTM requirements and fulfills its intended role in the training and sport flying market. An extensive Ground Vibration Test, though not an ASTM requirement, was conducted to meet Cessna’s lofty standards for airframe integrity. Additional testing beyond the ASTM requirements will include a full airframe fatigue test on a production aircraft. Cessna plans to begin deliveries in the US later this year.

The $111,500 Model 162 has two-seat capacity including the pilot. Suitable allowance for luggage is provided aft of the seats. A left hand and right hand door allow access for the pilot and passenger.

An all-new Garmin G300 avionics package was specifically designed for the SkyCatcher. A single Garmin G300 display will provide primary flight, engine and moving map information in a split screen format. Other standard equipment will include a Garmin SL40 Com radio, Garmin GTX327 Mode C transponder, VFR GPS and a 121.5 MHz ELT. Options include a second MFD, audio panel and autopilot.

The SkyCatcher's use of a novel iteration of dual control sticks makes for a roomy and functional cockpit.

Teledyne Continental's new O-200D will be doing motivational duty for all SkyCatchers. The SkyCatcher's Continental O-200D is an air-cooled, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated, spark ignition, direct drive engine that produces a maximum of 100 brake horsepower at 2,800 R