Aero Boero AB-115
| Industry | Aerospace |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1960s |
| Headquarters | Argentina |
The Aero Boero AB-115 is an Argentine civil utility aircraft derived from the AB-95, featuring a more robust engine and enhanced aerodynamic elements such as wheel fairings, a fiberglass engine cowling, and aluminum ailerons and flaps.
This model was successfully marketed to Brazil and found extensive use within aero clubs, primarily serving as a training aircraft.
Manufacturing of the AB-115 concluded in January 1973, after which the updated AB-115BS was introduced, boasting a larger wingspan, swept tail assembly, and an expanded fuel capacity.
Design
The AB-115 is designed as a high-wing monoplane with rectangular metal wings supported by struts, utilizing the NACA 23012 airfoil. Its fuselage and tail section consist of welded steel tubing covered in fabric. This aircraft evolved from Aero Boero’s earlier AB-95 model.
The trainer configuration incorporates tandem seating, placing the pilot or student in the front cockpit and the instructor behind, with a 25 kg cargo compartment located aft. Access is through a single large door situated on the right side. Both seats are equipped with seatbelts; flight controls are duplicated and mechanically interconnected, with removable rear controls to accommodate passenger flights.
Flight control systems operate through cables and pulleys. The aluminum alloy ailerons and flaps—adjustable to four positions: neutral, 15°, 30°, and 45°—are manually controlled. The rudder and elevator employ steel tube frames covered with fabric; trim tabs on the elevator, rudder, and left aileron allow for ground adjustments.
Power is provided by a 115 hp Lycoming O-235-C2A air-cooled engine coupled with a fixed-pitch Sensenich propeller. The fuel delivery system includes a FACET MA 3PA carburetor equipped with heat; electrical power comes from a Prestolite alternator; ignition relies on dual Bendix Scintilla magnetos; engine oil is cooled via a radiator fitted with a thermostat valve.
Fuel tanks made of aluminum are located in the wing roots, holding a total of 115 liters (110 liters usable), each tank having independent selectors and sight gauges. The aircraft can utilize gasoline with octane ratings ranging from 80/87 up to 100/130.
The conventional landing gear consists of three-point main gear attachments fitted with shock absorbers. Wheels are constructed from aluminum-magnesium alloy and include hydraulic brakes but lack a parking brake; chocks are used to secure the aircraft when stationary. The tailwheel is steerable and suspended by bungee cords.
The instrument panel is outfitted for fundamental flight instruction, featuring an airspeed indicator, altimeter, vertical speed indicator (VSI), turn coordinator, and magnetic compass. Engine instruments include tachometer, oil pressure and temperature gauges, as well as an ammeter. Communication equipment comprises a Bendix/King VHF radio and transponder. Cabin lighting activates simultaneously with running lights; two landing lights are installed on the right wing but are limited to five minutes of continuous use.
Variants
- Aero Boero AB-115BS
- Version designed for civil utility roles and ambulance service.
- Aero Boero AB-115 Trainer
- Model configured specifically for flight training purposes.
- Aero Boero AB-115/150
- Powered by an upgraded 150 hp Lycoming O-320 engine, adapted for agricultural spraying operations.
Bibliography
- Taylor, John W. R. (ed.). Jane's All the World's Aircraft 1976–77. London: Macdonald and Jane's, 1976.
- Taylor, Michael J.H. (ed.). Brassey's World Aircraft & Systems Directory 1999/2000 Edition. London: Brasseys, 1999.
- Uberlandia Aeroclub's Flying course, Chapter III – Aero Boero AB-115 aircraft technical manual, 2010 edition.
External links
- The Aero Boero AB-95/115/150/180 Airliners.net