LOOP News

10 AUG 06: FIRST FLIGHT FOR FARNBOROUGH F1

FIVE years of design, development and fighting for finance paid off at 1508 on 29 July when the Farnborough F1 prototype, now called the Kestrel, had its maiden flight.

The single-engine all-composite construction turboprop took off from Bend Airport, in Oregon, USA.

The first prototype has been developed by a small team of dedicated British engineers, led by Technical Director Afandi Darlington and Chief Aerodynamicist Dr Gordon Robinson. The prototype was completed in Oregon by a combined team of British and American engineers.

Chief Test Pilot Graham Archer said: "The aircraft performed flawlessly throughout the first flight, the highlight being its extremely powerful performance in the circuit which made this a very enjoyable aircraft to fly."

"This is a fantastic achievement," said Geoffrey Galley, chairman and CEO of Farnborough Aircraft Corp Ltd (FACL). "Despite many obstacles encountered throughout the history of the project, the team has delivered a remarkable and unique aircraft... our first flight is a major milestone on the road to a fully certified aircraft."

The F1 Kestrel prototype will complete an initial test flight programme in Bend this month before flying to FACL's base in the UK.

The aircraft will then continue to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to begin a two-week promotional tour in the Gulf area. Following the initial flight-testing phase, Farnborough Aircraft will work with UAE-based manufacturing partner Gamco to gain EASA and FAA certification of the F1 Kestrel, which is expected in 2008.

FACL says the 352-knot turboprop will be able to carry six passengers while operating from short landing strips.

W: www.farnborough-aircraft.com

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LOOP News

10 AUG 06: FIRST FLIGHT FOR FARNBOROUGH F1