One Aviation’s EA700 proof-of-concept wing has taken its first flight, the company said. The experimental test aircraft was modified to test the new wing shape, which is being used in development of the EA700.
“This is a key milestone in the path to making a very good airplane a great airplane”, said CEO Alan Klapmeier. “The One Aviation team has worked hard to achieve this key milestone for the EA700 proof-of-concept wing.”
The wing was the only modification; the E500 fuselage, engines and stabilizers were retained. Changes to the wing, the company said, included an overall four-foot increase in wingspan and reshaping of the inboard wing airfoils and planform. Expected shape of the production EA700 wingtip was not included.
Lasting about 1.5 hours, the flight tested handling qualities during transitions between all configurations. One Aviation said maneuvering and basic flying qualities were also evaluated at altitudes up to 15,000 feet. The company said test performance went “flawlessly.”