Cessna Aircraft’s first Model 162 SkyCatcher, produced at Shenyang Aircraft Co. in northeast China, has flown for the first time. During the flight, the test pilot performed a number of handling quality tests.Model 162 Skycatcher is a two-place, single-engine piston, high-wing aircraft in the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) category, defined in the United States as an aircraft with a gross weight under 1,320 pounds and with a top speed of no more than 120 knots. LSAs are built to and comply with ASTM International standards.
The Skycatcher will be capable of Visual Flight Rules/Day/Night operations.
Shenyang Aircraft Company was selected following a global search for a production partner that could handle high-quality production. Following shipment to the US, the 162s will be reassembled for delivery at one of three regional locations.
The SkyCatcher program continues to make significant progress. In July, the light sport aircraft received ASTM government compliance.
SkyCatcher deliveries should begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
Air Capital Insider said the plane is designed for flight training and will be produced in China. They will be disassembled, then shipped to the US where they will be reassembled for customer delivery at one of three locations, including Yinging Aviation in Wichita.