ROBIN LAUNCHES UPDATED DR401

09 Apr 2014

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French manufacturer Robin has launched the DR401 at AERO Friedrichshafen, which opened today. The DR401 is wider, with more legroom, has a better view forwards and much improved ergonomics.

"The idea was to get the same roominess as the DR500 without compromising the DR400 payload," says Robin. "Everyone knows and loves the DR400. Nobody wants to change its flying qualities, payload, manoeuvrability, safety. And yet, the world is moving. Lovers of the DR400 have grown up, gained weight and acquired a taste for comfort and finish. It was time for a make-over."

Robin took 18 months to make the changes. First, the sliding canopy is now mounted on a curved frame which is 10 cm (4 in) wider at shoulder height, giving both more width and better vision. The canopy handles, loudspeaker and lighting are now much neater, intruding less into the cabin.

The flaps are now operated by an electric mechanism, removing the old mechanical hanlde between the front seats. The trim, before an over-sensitive wheel, is also electric, operated by a button on the stick. Sports seats have been fitted, the stick itself redesigned, and the lower part of the panel redesigned for more legroom

The instrument panel has been completely redesigned to allow more space for large digital screens - standard analgogue gauges are also available. The coaming above the instrument panel has been slimmed down for a better view forwards - and also lines up with the horizon, says Robin.

Annunciator lights, the trim indicator, the magnetic compass, brightness adjusters and ancillary switches are at their usual place in the new upper section. The centre console has switches for the fuel pump, landing light, flaps, the engine management levers, the fuel selector and the parking brake knob. There's also a 12 volt power socket accessible from the rear seats.

Since 2013, all new Robin aircraft have been equipped with a flight recorder, SafetyPlane, that supports a warranty of 20 years for the aerostructures. It is also possible to access a real time flight management tool for added safety.

An option on the DR401 is Oratex fabric, claimed to improve performance, eliminate cracks in the paint and make repairs easier and quicker. It's also lighter by an incredible 15 kg because paint is part of the fabric. Exterior lights - landing, taxy and navigation - are now all LED.

There's a choice of powerplants: four Lycoming avgas engines (which can use Mogas through an STC) and two Centurion turbdodiesel engines, including the latest 155 hp 2.0S.

LINKS
Robin Aircraft 
Video of the DR401

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