Modern, robust and simple, the Skylander SK-105 is a twin turboprop aircraft, dedicated to regional passenger and freight transport, medical evacuation, or a mission aircraft role. The Skylander responds to the needs of companies operating in difficult terrain with limited infrastructure.
Developing nation: France.
Manufacturer/designer: GECI Aviation/ Sky Aircraft.
Production line: Chambley-Bussières Air Base in Lorraine.
Type aircraft: Small twin turboprop aircraft.
First flight: first half of 2012.
First delivery: 2013
The Sk-105 Skylander is capable of transporting 19 passengers or 2.7 tonnes of freight and operating in extreme temperature and altitude conditions, on airports as well as short basic runways.
Its five doors give it great accessibility and operability. Its wide rear door allows for the loading of merchandise. In its passenger version, with a 1.83 m high cabin, and seats that are 51 cm wide, the Skylander offers optimal traveling conditions.
The 1,100 HP turboprop engines are being supplied by Pratt & Whitney Canada; the metal propeller blades will come from Hartzell; the avionics, and glass cockpit from Cobham were selected for their reliability and durability under extreme conditions.
A VIP Skylander is designed to operate from short, rough airstrips and will appeal to companies or governments which are based in, or need to travel around, countries where the transportation infrastructure is poor.
Four Skylander prototypes will be constructed and ground- and flight-testing are set to begin in 2012 leading to first deliveries to ACT Airlines of Turkey in 2013. The VIP is due to enter service the following year. Over 1,500 Skylander aircraft will leave the Sky Aircraft assembly lines between 2013 and 2030.
General characteristics
- Crew: 2
- Capacity: 19 passengers
- Length: 16.96 m (22.65 ft)
- Wingspan: 23.20 (76.12 ft)
- Height: 6.61 m (21.69 ft)
- Max takeoff weight: 8,618 kg (19,000 lb)
- Powerplant: 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65B turboprops 1100shp (820kW) driving five-blade Hartzell propellers.
Performance
- Cruise speed: 435 km/h (235 kts)
- Range: 2,148 km (1,160 NM)
- Service ceiling: 7,620 m (25,000 ft)
All pictures courtesy of Zijde Aviation Photo and Publishing, Rob Vogelaar
