GippsAero is improving on the already exceptional slow-flight characteristics of its Airvan GA8 and GA8-TC320 turboprop as a Micro AeroDynamics' Micro Vortex Generators kit has received supplemental type certificate (STC) approval for the airplanes. The Micro VGs reduce stall and takeoff speed, improve elevator authority and enhance the overall controllability of the airplane, the company said.
With the VGs installed the published stall speeds of both airplane models are reduced by 4 or 5 knots depending on the configuration of the airplane. With full flaps, the stall speed is as slow as 53 KIAS with the VGs, according to company specs.
Despite the benefits the VGs provide in terms of stall speed and slow-flight handling, the affect on cruise speed is negligible, the company says.
The installation includes 132 aluminum vortex generators that are glued onto the top surface of the wings, behind the leading edges, and above the cabin using Loctite Depend 330 adhesive. An additional 72 VGs are attached to the underside of the horizontal stabilizer. The price for the kit, which includes spares, is $2,450, not including shipping and handling or installation, which the company says takes one day or less to complete. Micro AeroDynamics also offers paint services for the VGs to match the airplane color for an additional $200.
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