The STOL CH 801 is a four-seat multi-purpose aircraft of Canadian manufacture, produced by Zenith Aircraft Company since 1986. Work on designing the light multi-purpose STOL CH 801 model began in 1983. In fact, the development of this aircraft model was an attempt to create a popular aircraft capable of being used in various spheres of civil aviation due to its high functionality.
Design and Versatility
The aircraft was primarily developed for private owners. However, the aircraft manufacturers decided to abandon the popular two and three-seat configurations, which were not always justified, and proceed with the implementation of a four-seat aircraft project. In addition to carrying people, the STOL CH 801 can also transport cargo and be used as a sport aircraft. Its small dimensions, which provide the aircraft with high maneuverability, contributed significantly to this.
The Zenith STOL CH 801 first took to the sky in 1986. Since all aircraft tests were successful, and the flight and technical characteristics met the developers’ requirements, the project was sent into production, where it remains to this day. This model is produced exclusively as kits for self-assembly, with the cost of one basic kit being only about 25 thousand dollars, which is quite acceptable.
Capabilities and Performance
The aircraft’s cabin can accommodate three passengers and one pilot, and there is also the possibility of placing cargo, which allows the aircraft to be used as a small transport vehicle. Moreover, as the aircraft belongs to the class of light sport aircraft, it is actively used for high-speed flights. However, it is not suitable for performing acrobatic stunts for a number of reasons.
The STOL CH 801’s powerplant consists of a single Lycoming O-360 piston aircraft engine, located in the front of the aircraft. The engine is capable of developing 180 hp, which allows the aircraft to accelerate to its maximum speed of 205 km/h, and also to cover distances of up to 600 kilometers without additional landings, which is very satisfactory.
Assembly and Availability
Assembling a complete STOL CH 801 kit requires more than 750 hours. The cost of the kit without an engine is $29,890. A pre-assembled kit is also offered for $41,850. According to data from 2011, Zenith Aircraft Company had created and sold 160 self-assembly kits, with the majority of these aircraft registered in Canada.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | STOL CH-801 |
| Wingspan, m | 9. 55 |
| Length, m | 7. 50 |
| Height, m | 3. 00 |
| Wing area, m2 | 15. 50 |
| Empty weight | 590 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 1000 |
| Fuel capacity | 80 |
| Engine type | 1 х Lycoming O-360 |
| Power, hp | 1 х 180 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 181 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 170 |
| Ferry range, km | 1030 |
| Practical range, km | 5 15 |
| Maximum rate of climb, m/min | 366 |
| Service ceiling, m | 4875 |
| Crew, crew | 1 |
| Payload: | up to 3 passengers |
Image gallery of the STOL CH-801
