Aeroprakt A-32 Vixxen
| Industry | Aircraft manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Ukraine |
| Products | Ultralight aircraft (including Aeroprakt A-32) |
The Aeroprakt A-32 is a Ukrainian-designed, two-seat ultralight aircraft featuring a high-wing configuration and tricycle landing gear. Conceived by designer Yuri Yakovlev, it is produced by the company Aeroprakt. Within the Australian market, this model is marketed under the name Vixxen.[1][2]
Derived from the Aeroprakt A-22 Foxbat, the A-32 distinguishes itself by being available solely as a kit in the United Kingdom, whereas in 31 other countries it is offered as a fully assembled, ready-to-fly aircraft.
Design and development
Following three years of dedicated research and refinement, the A-32 emerged as an evolution of the A-22 Foxbat.[2]
To achieve a higher cruise velocity while retaining the same 100 horsepower (75 kW) Rotax 912ULS powerplant used in the A-22, several aerodynamic enhancements were implemented on the A-32. These include a redesigned flush wing-to-fuselage fairing, an all-moving horizontal stabilizer, and precision-moulded engine baffling to optimize cooling and airflow. Additional modifications involve a wing reduced in span by 10 centimetres (3.9 in) compared to its predecessor, shorter lift struts, and improved fairing around the wing tanks. Collectively, these adjustments enable the A-32 to cruise approximately 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph) faster than the original model.[2]
The prototype was finalized in January 2014, with the first production unit unveiled in April 2015. Subsequently, it was shipped to Australia where it conducted its inaugural flight at Moorabbin on 20 July 2015.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Variants
- Aeroprakt A-32L
- This version of the A-32 is designed as an ultralight model, featuring a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 450 kg, which can increase to 472.5 kg when equipped with a recovery parachute system, aligning with European ultralight standards, though it does not meet UK regulatory requirements.Template:Fix/category[citation needed] The aircraft comes standard with a central Y-stick for control, while dual control yokes are available as an optional feature.
Specifications (A-32 Vixxen)
References
External links
Media related to Aeroprakt A-32 Vixxen at Wikimedia Commons
