Succesor to the Navajo, Chieftain, Metro
Ok we have discussed about replacements for the Chieftain, but only in the contect of building the same airframe again. But what about considering new technology.
A 10 seat twin piston, but instead of using aluminium, use the composite technology that Raytheon devoloped fr the Premire and Horizon light jets, ie., the viper machine that builds a fuselage in 1 piece, wrapping layers of composite material round a mould then cured in an autoclave. Apparently that type of construction is veary suitable for pressurisation.
Next throw in a pair of Theilerts V8 350 Hp jetA1 burning diesels that are attaining fuel specifics that turbines cannot hope to match. A low drag airframe thanks to composites and modern wing design has to yield around 250 kts or so in the high teen FLs.
Is there the market, surely there are RPT routs that will never support an 18 seat a/c.
Is there also a market for an 18 seat replacement for the metro, same fuselage design concept. but with turbines. Is 36 seats becoming the minimum viable seat number??
Just some random thoughts after reading some articles.
Thoughts anyone??