Brumby Aircraft in Cowra is developing a 760-kg version of it's Evolution high-wing in anticipation of new Group G category to be introduced by Recreational Aviation Australia (RAAus).
The Brumby Evolution 760 will be fitted with a 141-hp Rotax 915 iS, which the manufacturer believes will give the aircraft a cruise speed of 120 KTAS and a rate of climb of 1400 fpm.
With a predicted basic empty weight of 400 kg, the Brumby 760 looks like having plenty of space for the manufacturer to add enhancements to the aircraft.
"We are incredibly excited about this new model, and believe it will be very popular with its new designed interior completely decked out in two-tone leather seats with all the standard options including a ballistic parachute," Brumby Aircraft's Paul Goard told Australian Flying.
"We have spent some time designing brand new CAD cowls for the new model and a few other additional features like gloss carbon interior door trim.The 760 will also be equipped with wheel spats to ensure we can get the absolute maximum speed we can as it is designed for faster cross-country flying."
The new 760-kg MTOW has meant some engineering changes to the chassis of the 610, with a second strut added to each wing and control surfaces balanced.
"The aircraft is currently undergoing load testing for the higher weight under ASTM 2245," Goard said. "The control surfaces will be balanced to withstand a higher speed and higher VNE, and we'll also ensure any flutter or reversal is properly mitigated."
RAAus Group G will be introduced to accommodate the new 760-kg MTOW limit permitted by CASA under amendments to CASR Part 149.
Currently, Approved Self-administering Aviation Organisations (ASAO) are permitted to register and administer aircraft with MTOWs not exceeding 760 kg under an exemption to CAO 95.55, but must be CASA-approved first.
However, aircraft must still have a stall speed that doesn't exceed 45 knots, which many manufacturers believe can't be achieved.
RAAus is currently working on approval for their new Group G after making changes to their operations manual, but are also negotiating with CASA on an increase in the permitted stall speed to accommodate the higher MTOW.
Initially, Brumby Aircraft will keep the Brumby 760 in the 600-kg class until CASA grants RAAus the approval for the higher MTOW, which is expected in mid 2022.