AEA Explorer

The AEA Explorer is a large single-engine utility aircraft. It is of mostly conventional high-wing configuration, but interesting features include landing gear that retracts into under-fuselage sponsons and a slightly swept forward wing. The prototype, designated Explorer 350R first flew in 1998 and was soon exhibited on promotional tours of Australia and the United States.

The Explorer is currently being offered in three versions - the piston-engined 500R, a turboprop-powered version, the 500T (which first flew in 2000), and a stretched version of the 500T, designated 750T.

Explorer Aircraft was established in Jasper, Texas to market the aircraft for the US market.

Specifications (AEA Exporer 500R)

General characteristics

• Crew: one, pilot
• Capacity: ten passengers or 1,090 kg (2,400 lb) freight
• Length: 9.7 m (31 ft 9 in)
• Wingspan: 14.4 m (47 ft 4 in)
• Height: 4.7 m (15 ft 6 in)
• Wing area: m² ( ft²)
• Empty: 1,728 kg (3,300 lb)
• Loaded: kg ( lb)
• Maximum takeoff: 2,812 kg (6,200 lb)
• Powerplant: 1 x Orenda 600AA, 447 kW (600 hp)

Performance

• Maximum speed: 315 km/h (197 mph)
• Range: 1,710 km (1,069 miles)
• Service ceiling: 7,622 m (25,000 ft)
• Rate of climb: 305 m/min (1,000 ft/min)
• Wing loading: kg/m² ( lb/ft²)
• Power/mass: W/kg ( hp/lb)

External links

• The Explorer on AEA's website
• Explorer Aircraft website