AIRCRAFT INDUSTRIES introduced the latest version of its L 410 NG turboprop commuter aircraft at its Kunovice, Czech Republic facility on July 15. The manufacturer (formerly known as LET) said the aircraft, OK-NGA, represents a substantial upgrade on previous variants. It inherits the best of L 410UVP-E20, which is currently in production, but with significantly improved operational characteristics, it claimed. The aircraft features new avionics and a new wing with integral fuel tank offering giving increased fuel capacity as well as range.
The L 410NG has up-rated General Electric H85 engines with a maximum range of 1,553 miles (2,500km) compared with the 858 miles (1,380km) range of the previous variant. In standard configuration the aircraft is intended for short-haul transportation from remote and undeveloped areas.
Aircraft Industries says it plans to manufacturer up to 30 L 410NGs per year, once certification has been achieved, with serial production due to start in 2017.