Origins and Development of the CAP 230
In 1985, Mudry introduced the CAP 230, a variant of the CAP 21 featuring a new 300 hp Lycoming engine and a more angular tail. This aircraft was developed to meet the requirements of the French Air Force. The CAP 21 prototype was subsequently rebuilt into this new model and conducted its maiden flight on October 8, 1985.
The CAP 231 emerged as the standard production aerobatic variant, taking to the skies for the first time in April 1990 and receiving certification in July of the same year. Notable customers for the CAP 231 included the “Marche Verte” aerobatic team of the Moroccan Air Force.
Evolution and Championship Success
An advanced version, the CAP 231 EX prototype, completed its first flight on December 18, 1991. It was initially equipped with a 260 hp Barrett engine, but later upgraded to a 300 hp Lycoming AEIO-540 engine and a composite wing. This aircraft achieved first-place victories in international aerobatic championships in 1998, 2000, and 2007, showcasing its superior performance.
Legacy and Modernization Efforts
Despite its successful designs, the Mudry concern declared bankruptcy in 1997. The rights to its aircraft were then transferred to “Akrotech Europe,” which became “CAP Aviation” in 1999. On May 12, 1997, Akrotech Europe commenced aircraft production, including the CAP 222, a two-seat aerobatic variant based on the American Giles G-202, making its first flight on June 12, 1997.
Following a tragic incident in 2005, flights of all aircraft in the CAP family were temporarily grounded. Extensive modifications were subsequently carried out on the entire fleet, including the newest single-seat model, the CAP 232. Equipped with a 300 hp Textron Lycoming AEIO-540-L1B5 engine, the CAP 232 went on to win a first prize at an international championship in 2007, reaffirming the family’s competitive spirit.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CAP 2 31 |
| Wingspan, m | 8. 80 |
| Aircraft length, m | 6.75 |
| Aircraft height, m | 1. 90 |
| Wing area, m2 | 9. 86 |
| Empty weight | 630 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 730 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Lycoming AEI0-540-L1 B5D |
| Power, hp | 1 x 300 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 330 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 300 |
| Practical range, km | 360 |
| Maximum rate of climb, m/min | 960 |
| Max. operational G-load | 10 |
| Crew, crew members | 1 |
Image gallery of the CAP 230
