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Old December 25th 03, 05:50 PM
EDR
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Default Cherokee Six on steroids...

Cessna gave up high wing version of the 206 on steroids, the 208
Caravan.
Now, the New Zealander's give usthe low wing version of the Cherokee
Six on steroids...
(from AvWeb)

Kiwis Launch Utility Turboprop

New Zealand has entered the increasingly crowded utility aircraft
sector with a low-wing turboprop aimed initially at the skydiving
market. Pacific Aerospace Corporation expects to have FAA certification
early next year for the PAC 750 XL. It's the first passenger aircraft
ever designed and built in New Zealand and the company claims to have
18 orders and 260 options lined up in Europe, Australia, Africa and
North America for the rugged plane, which can carry up to 17 jumpers to
12,000 feet in 12 minutes. North American distributor Utility Aircraft
Corporation is marketing it as a skydiving plane. With a 750-hp Pratt
and Whitney turboprop, a high-lift wing and beefy landing gear, the
company claims the plane can operate from short, rough strips with a
4,500-pound payload. Cruise is about 160 knots with a five-hour range.
Cargo, commuter, medevac, sightseeing and reconnaissance versions are
also planned. The new airplane is based on Pacific Aerospace's
successful line of trainers and agricultural aircraft. The company has
been in business for 50 years.