First Flight for Cessna Skycatcher Prototype (Model 162)

The title essentially speaks for itself as not much information is known about the actual flight aside from the fact that it happened.

Cessna said its engineering team "continues to evaluate" the 100-hp Continental O-200 engine that is installed in the proof-of-concept aircraft, which first flew in August 2007, just weeks after the program's official launch at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh. The SkyCatcher is priced at $111,500. It is expected to cruise at speeds up to 118 knots with a maximum range of 470 nautical miles, a useful load of 490 pounds and a usable fuel capacity of 24 gallons. The aircraft will feature a Garmin G300 avionics system, and will be capable of day and night VFR operations, Cessna said. First deliveries are expected by late 2009.

I like how Cessna continues to emphasize that all Model 162 engineering and testing will take place in Witchita, KS; downplaying the fact that it will be manufactured in China! Surely the aircraft will have a sticker on it stating "Engineered in Kansas" with no mention of a little gold sticker with black type on the panel saying "Made in China." Do not get me wrong, I'm all in favor of the Skycatcher, but this is beginning to sound a bit like Scairbus manufacturing the KC-45A in Alabama, but we all know where the parts are coming from!!! Blast!!! Alabama is a front, just like Kansas is for the Skycatcher.

The Cessna 152 continues to shed tears as it knows it days are numbered, soon to be replaced by the 162 as an economical trainer aircraft.