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New P-51 Mustang Look-alike Takes Off

SW51 Mustang
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • FK-Lightplanes has launched the SW51, a new 70-percent scale P-51 Mustang look-alike, which recently completed its first flight.
  • The SW51 is constructed from a proprietary material lighter and stronger than carbon fiber, powered by a 100-hp Rotax engine for a 150-knot cruise, and capable of aerobatic maneuvers.
  • Intended for Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) certification, the first U.S.-bound model is expected by year-end under an experimental exhibition airworthiness certificate.
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The North American P-51 Mustang is possibly the most highly revered airplane ever created, and several companies have released look-alikes of the classic warbird. The most recent addition to the Mustang stable comes from FK-Lightplanes — a Polish company that produces LSAs and aerobatic airplanes. Its SW51 recently took to the skies for the first time and serial number three, which will be flying under an experimental exhibition airworthiness certificate, is expected to land in the U.S. by the year-end.

According to Ron Hansen, the vice president of Hansen Air Group — the North American dealer for FK-Lightplanes, the SW51 is a 70-percent scale imitation of the North American P-51 made of a proprietary material that is both lighter and stronger than carbon fiber. The material is stained to look like aluminum.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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