C.L.A.S.S. Inc.
(Canadian Light Aircraft Sales & Services)
Launches two new models in 2001
Montreal, August 2001...... Two new model BushCaddy Aircraft made their debut in 2001.
CLASS has introduced two new variants of the BushCaddy at major trade shows this year. The BushCaddy Voyageur is a two-place nosewheel/ tri-gear with built-in rigging points to facilitate the conversion of the aircraft to a tailwheel configuration in less than two hours. It is powered by a Rotax 912S 100 HP engine, and has completed full flight testing, surpassing the company's expectations. "We are getting 110 mph in cruise at 5000 rpm." reported Sean Gilmore, designer and president of CLASS. "My first flight caught me by surprise, - I was off the ground in less than 100 feet. Climb out was what we expected - between 800 and 1100 fpm, and I was still able to pull off some decent short field landings with the nose wheel. I am very satisfied with this little aircraft, and its flexibility will serve the needs of both taildraggers and trike pilots"
Voyageur on low pass over St-Lazare airport
L-164 on display at Oshkosh
Following the convertible a Lycoming-powered four-place kit available in conventional configuration was launched at Oshkosh Airventure 2001. Known as the BushCaddy L164, this model has a useful load equal to or greater than its empty weight. Especially useful on floats or amphibious gear, the four-place model also incorporates optional cargo doors, removable rear seats, and flaps. Full IFR panels can be easily accommodated. It was a hit at Oshkosh, and the company has returned home, weary but with confirmed orders. "We worked until 3 am some mornings to get her finished, but it was worth it. The phone has not stopped ringing since our return, and we now have orders to keep us busy well until the fall of next year." says Gilmore. There are plans to develop a spring gear option and "we will be working almost immediately on a trike version" Gilmore added.
CLASS now has an ongoing R&D program underway, and the company plans to introduce new BushCaddy models on a regular basis.BushCaddy aircraft are all-metal, high wing monoplanes noted for their rugged construction, roomy interiors, STOL performance and high cruise speeds. Additionally, they are designed to accommodate a wide range of powerplants, giving them extraordinary payloads and ranges. The complete line includes Rotax, Continental or Lycoming powered two place, Lycoming powered four-place or two-plus-two, land, sea, ski undercarriage options, and tailwheel, tricycle and convertible gear landplanes.
Kits are available in ultralight, homebuilt and fast-build form. To date, 58 BushCaddys are flying. They are certified as Amateur Built Aircraft in Canada, USA and Australia. The R80 model, at 1232 lb., is designed to fit into the USA rules for the new Sport Plane category as well as the Canadian rules for the Ultralight category.
Contact: Sean Gilmore or Marlene Gill (450) 424-1447 or 1-888-977-1447
Written by James McIntyre of Romeo Oscar Inc. jamie@RomeoOscar.com
High Resolution Photos available for downloading