Here are a few short seconds of our new A22LS Foxbat demonstrator in flight. After less than a month in the air, it’s already completed 25 hours’ flying and is currently having its first maintenance check.
This is the first Foxbat demonstrator we’ve had which is fitted with an AirMaster in-flight electrically adjustable propeller – this one with Whirlwind blades. We are evaluating the propeller before formally offering it as an option – our first impressions are that take-off distance is shorter, and climb is significantly better than with the standard KievProp; economy is slightly better. We will also evaluate this propeller on the A32 Vixxen in due course, where in addition to take-off and climb performance, we are predicting an improvement in cruise speed.
The demo Foxbat aircraft is also fitted with a glider tow hook and we will be undertaking towing trials in the near future in Victoria, Australia. This aircraft has oversize wheels, a 30kgs ‘Kelpie’ metal luggage compartment with a side door and a ballistic rescue system. The icing on this demonstrator cake is a 2-axis Dynon autopilot which will be connected with a GPS as soon as we can keep the aircraft on the ground long enough to fit one!
Come and see this aircraft along with the A32 Vixxen at the Australian International Airshow, at Melbourne’s Avalon Airport from 26 February to 03 March this year.
As usual, either click on the image above or here to view the video: Foxbat over 13th beach
Good day
Thanks for the Foxbat Pilot articles. I find the very informative and enjoyable.
After adding the new AirMaster prop did you need to add weight in the rear of the plane, to keep the CG in place? If you did, I’m curious to know where you placed the weight in the tail.
I live in South Africa and resenty purchased a 2009 Foxbat with large tyres and yoke controls.
Kind regards
Gidon
Hi Gidon – we did not need to add any weight in the tail of our aircraft to stay inside the limits. However, we have a parachute rescue system installed behind the seats, which would make a difference. To be sure you don’t need weight for your aircraft, you’ll need to recalculate the CofG with the Airmaster. If you need weight in the tail, you may have to de-rivet the rear bulkhead by the stabiliser and secure weight(s) inside before re-riveting the bulkhead.