The Comp Air 9 is a light, multi-purpose, all-composite aircraft produced by the American aerospace corporation Comp Air Inc. since 2012. Development of the Comp Air 9 began in 2010. American aircraft manufacturers focused primarily on private use for this aircraft, as evidenced by its relatively small passenger capacity.
However, the presence of a turboprop aircraft engine allows the aircraft to accelerate to high flight speeds. Currently, several produced aircraft are used for business aviation and as air taxis, which also defines their commercial operational sphere.
Development and Assembly
The Comp Air 9 made its first flight in 2011. However, due to a number of technical deficiencies, production of this model only began in 2012. The aircraft was initially planned for release in an already assembled state, but the final decision favored producing special kits for self-assembly.
This significantly reduced the cost of the aircraft. Assembling a Comp Air 9 requires approximately 950 hours. Despite the considerable time, aircraft of this model are popular, not only among private owners but also with small air carriers operating on local and regional routes.
Capacity and Performance
Up to six people can be accommodated on board the Comp Air 9, including one pilot and five passengers. The aircraft’s cabin itself is available in two main configurations, one of which is used in aircraft intended for business aviation needs.
In addition to passenger transport, the Comp Air 9 is also suitable for transporting small cargo, with a total mass of up to 1543 kg. However, the aircraft is practically not used for these purposes.
The turboprop powerplant of the Comp Air 9 model features a Honeywell TPE331-10 aircraft engine (a Honeywell TPE331-12 model can also be installed if necessary). This engine develops 1000 hp, which in turn allows for unimpeded flights over distances of up to 2778 kilometers (maximum flight range).
The cruising speed is 463 km/h. One disadvantage of this powerplant is its expensive technical and service maintenance.
Production and Cost
Over three years of production, starting in 2012, approximately 10 aircraft of this model were built. These are used by both private owners and for commercial purposes. The cost of a single aircraft ranged from 770 thousand to 1.2 million US dollars, based on 2012 prices.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Comp Air 9 |
| Wingspan, m | 13.11 |
| Aircraft length, m | 11.58 |
| Aircraft height, m | 4.09 |
| Wing area, m2 | 24.15 |
| Empty weight | 1950 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 3493 |
| Engine type | 1 Turboprop Honeywell TPE331-10 |
| Power, hp | 1 x 1 000 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 490 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 463 |
| Practical range, km | 2778 |
| Rate of climb, m/min | 853 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 5800 |
| Crew | 1 crew member |
| Payload | 5 passengers or 1543 kg of cargo |
Image gallery of the Comp Air 9
