Malton Laser is helping an aircraft engineer take to the skies with a new concept in single-person aircraft.
The aircraft features folding wings for easy storage and can be rigged ready to fly within just one minute. With testing now underway, the project is close to completion with the aircraft set to take flight for the first time later this year.
Malton Laser has been involved with the project since the very beginning, manufacturing a number of components including the control systems for the aircraft, as well as sections of the undercarriage using its laser cutting technology. With it being essential that the structure is as light as possible to contribute to the fuel efficiency properties, the metalwork specialist was able to achieve this by creating the parts from aerospace alloys.
Ivan Shaw from North Yorkshire first began the aeroplane project five years ago after embarking on a venture to create a method of transport for anyone looking to get from A to B fast and efficiently.
He said: “Malton Laser offers a one-stop-shop for high-quality components, which is exactly what we needed. Each milestone we’ve reached during the building process has been a huge achievement, and Malton Laser’s experts have been invaluable in helping us to manufacture quality parts. It’s been such an experience to see the aircraft come to life and it now feels like we are in the final stages of the project. Most small private aircrafts these days are almost 50 years old and are not as economic as they could be. I’m exploring performance-efficient technology, making the design as simplistic and lightweight as possible to improve the overall efficiency.”
The single person aircraft will cruise at over 200mph, with an economy speed of 140mph – returning to 80mpg – and a range of 1,000 miles.
Managing director of Malton Laser, Charles Corner, said: “Ivan Shaw’s single person aircraft idea definitely sparked my interest, and when the opportunity arose to provide laser-cut components I was more than happy to help. As a full-service metalwork manufacturer we are able to accept a diverse range of projects, we can turn our hand to anything from racing trophies to chocolate hoppers. One of my favourite aspects of this work is seeing projects come to life, from initial concept to a final product and we can’t wait to see the aircraft take flight later this year.”
Photo: The aircraft structure undergoing weight testing