The GippsAero built prototype of the Indian designed CNM-5 five-seat light aircraft completed its maiden flight from GippsAero’s LaTrobe Valley, Victoria, base on September 1.
The all metal, fixed gear, Lycoming IO-540 powered C-NM5’s basic handling characteristics were evaluated during the 45 minute flight, with subsequent flights evaluating stability and control in different flight regimes.
The aircraft was designed by India’s CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories and Mahindra Aerospace, which has owned GippsAero since 2009, over a three year period.
“The successful first flight of the C-NM5 prototype is a great milestone for the Mahindra Aerospace family. Beyond the technology, the event reflects our commitment to invest in GippsAero and becoming more globally competitive together. I have been impressed by the effectiveness of the working relationship that has developed between our Indian and Australian teams, and of the close cultural relations between our two countries,” Mahindra Aerospace CEO Arvind Mehra said.
“GippsAero is proud to have produced the prototype of the C-NM5 in partnership with our parent company Mahindra Aerospace,” said GippsAero CEO Dr Terry Miles. “The construction of a working prototype in 10 months is an outstanding achievement for our team, and a testament to the manufacturing skills that we have nurtured within our organisation here in regional Victoria.”
Meanwhile, GippsAero has begun construction on a new 1200 square metre assembly hall to accommodate the assembly of its upcoming GA10 Airvan, to be completed by the end of this month.
