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PRESS RELEASE
Issued by:

Stratos jet performs well in wind tunnel tests
Monday, 22 August 2011

Five days of tests in the University of Washington Kirsten Wind Tunnel produced positive results for the Stratos Very Light Personal Jet (VLPJ). The one-fifth scale aluminum, polycarbonate, and composite model was subjected to more than 90 runs with focus on airflow over the fuselage, wings, and vertical tail.

The engineers are still analyzing the data. Initial results show the tests verified the novel areas of the design; the scalloped forward fuselage in particular. It proved to be effective in handling airflow in all flight attitudes, including takeoff, landing and strong crosswind components. Even at high yaw angles (representing high X-wind cases) the flow into the downwind inlet remained remarkably clean. The vertical fin is also capable of handling high crosswind angles without separation. Numerous other tests performed included runs to refine the winglets and verify the roll control system design.

The wing-body fairing geometry was also enhanced during the testing. Subsequently, the team stated that this area will need further CFD analysis and additional wind tunnel work before the fairing geometry is frozen. Stratos has developed a video on the wind tunnel testing that is available through YouTube at this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gV7exZmql4.

Development of the Stratos continues with parallel structures and aerodynamics development programs. The structures program is focused currently on extensive stress analysis of the fuselage. Ultimately, all primary structural components will be built and load tested prior to the construction of the first prototype.

Extensive engineering has defined the Stratos 714 as a single engine VLPJ capable of carrying four/five people to FL 410, at cruise speeds over 400 knots, with a range of 1500 nautical miles (with NBAA reserves).

Stratos Aircraft is now accepting $10,000 deposits for 714 delivery positions. Deposits are escrowed in interest-bearing accounts and can be retrieved at any time. The company is still seeking investors and expects to have two flying prototype aircraft within the next two years.

Contact details from our directory:
Stratos Aircraft, Inc. Airframer
Related aircraft programs:
Stratos 716