Clear Sky Ventures Ltd. has acquired the assets of the GA-7 Cougar light twin aircraft, designed and formerly produced by Grumman American Aviation known for military and corporate business jets. The new Cougar Aircraft Corp now holds the FAA Certificate, production fixtures, and the technology needed to build this model.
With redundant systems, the GA-7 twin engine Cougar offers enhanced safety for executive travel and commercial pilot training. In fact, the training market has exploded with airline demand, and it is forecast that in the global market, the need for 800,000 or more new pilots will generate a market for several thousand new twin trainers. That adds up to potential sales of around $5 Billion USD over the next 15 years. Although Grumman Gulfstream dropped out of the light aircraft market to concentrate on the corporate market, the need for new pilots by airlines has increased demand for trainers to the point where one major light plane maker is boasting a 700-plane backorder and $300 million plus in annual sales.
The training markets are ripe for this aircraft which enjoys a loyal following due to its appealing aesthetic, high performance, low costs, and enviable safety record. With concerns raised about crew training in recent headlines, this aircraft offers a golden opportunity for flight schools to train new crews to full competency, and to increase their bottom line. Using advanced construction techniques based on Grumman's decades of business and fighter jet manufacturing, the GA-7 Cougar offers an exceptionally long service life of its main wing spar at 42,000 hours – this compared to a typical 12,000 hour service life which puts many training aircraft (including the popular Cirrus) at a big disadvantage.
Highly aerodynamic, the Cougar GA-7 performs favorably compared with its competition, with a lower carbon footprint due to more economical engines – which also offer higher time between required overhauls – thereby saving overhead to fleet operators. This is an airplane designed for eco-friendly flight; and alternative propulsion systems are in planning.
Because a Type Certificate has no expiration the GA-7's FAA Type Certificate grants the owner permanent, exclusive world-wide FAA rights to manufacture these planes. Cougar Aircraft Corp is now available for purchase or Joint Venture.
Contact details from our directory: | |
NFX Aero (was Cougar Aircraft Corporation) | Airframer |
Related aircraft programs: |
NFX Aero GA-7 Cougar |
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