The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued Major Change Approval certifying the Tecnam P2002JF Variable Pitch Propeller version of Tecnam’s best-selling single.
According to company officials, advantages of the Tecnam P2002JF Variable Pitch Propeller include:
- Better cruise and climb performances: maximum horizontal speed at maximum continuous power is increased of about 5-7 kias, VS increase of 150-200 ft/min;
- Better cruise comfort: regulation of propeller RPM at maximum power, lower noise and improved fuel consumption control;
- Availability of all the maximum deliverable power, at all speeds as a function of density altitude;
The Tecnam P2002JF VP version adds 5 more kilos of basic empty weight, in comparison to a traditional fixed pitch propeller aircraft.
With more weight in the nose, flying qualities are improved with front CG, rather than tail CG, according to company officials. Any performance loss due to this modest CG nose shift is compensated by better propeller power ratio, officials add.
The Tecnam P2002JF is a two-seat, low-wing plane powered by a Rotax engine.
For more information: Tecnam.com
What a pity that European light aircraft makers have to de-rate their aircraft to comply with LSA rules. Quite a few of these planes are available with variable pitch props and even retracts, but not in the USA, now “leading from behind” in advanced light aircraft deign.