Europe’s EASA has signed off on a modified version of Tecnam’s best-selling P2002 Sierra with a variable pitch propeller. The P2002JF provides an increase in cruise speed of 5 to 7 knots and improved climb performance of an extra 150 to 200 fpm, the company claims. The new version of the two-seat low-wing LSA will also enable the pilot to lower the noise and fuel consumption by changing the propeller pitch; however, the modification does come with a weight penalty of about 10 pounds.
The P2002JF is an aluminum airplane with a sliding canopy that can be opened in flight up to 70 knots. It is powered by a 100 hp liquid and air-cooled Rotax 912 ULS engine.
