Belite Aircraft is now providing new performance, weight, and range data on Chipper, its two place experimental aircraft design.

After a number of aerodynamic improvements (including a new carbon fiber cowl), performance has jumped 16 mph from the last published value to a new value of 106 mph true air speed. This is not a top speed; this is an available cruise speed. This performance was realized with the small 80HP Rotax 912UL engine. Test conditions were 4500 feet density altitude and engine @ 5500 RPM.

Belite is also forecasting cruise performance with 100HP engines of cruise of 123 mph true airspeed.

Chipper is also now available in two gross weight variants: 1050 and 1232 pounds. These give typical useful loads of 450 pounds and 600 pounds. The 1050 pound airframe kit is priced at $10,495 for purchasers in September, October and November. The 1232 pound kit is priced at $10,795, just $300 more.

"I'm thrilled with what we are able to deliver to the market in a high performance, STOL aircraft," said James Wiebe, CEO of Belite. "Chipper now provides higher speeds and extraordinary takeoff and landing performance as well. And with an airframe kit priced at $10,795 (1232 pound gross), it is more cost effective than competitive STOL designs, while offering amazing performance.

"The aerodynamic improvements are also benefitting our obstacle clearance climb rates, along with our takeoff rolls," Wiebe continued. "While we have not yet characterized new numbers for this important information, it is clear that quicker acceleration and better climb rates are a benefit of reduced drag."

The range of Chipper has also improved. With an available 40 gallons of fuel, Chipper's range is about 1000 statute miles, but it does require a bladder-busting 14 hours of endurance on the part of the pilot.