Basic Version And Carbon Fiber Model 254 CF Provide Range Of Capabilities, Pricing

Belite Aircraft has developed two variants of its FAR Part 103 compliant, ready-to-fly airplane that provide the fun and exhilaration of flight at two distinct price points and with different optional equipment.  To meet the demand for an affordable, straight-forward, and lightweight version, Belite is offering the Model 254 in a Ready To Fly (RTF) configuration for $29,995, FOB Wichita.  The "premium" version of the aircraft, which incorporates approximately 50 additional features and makes extensive use of carbon fiber to lower its overall weight, has been christened the Belite 254 CF.  It is also available Ready To Fly for $54,995.

The basic Belite 254 incorporates more aluminum and less carbon fiber than its more advanced sibling and eliminates some non-essential options.  It retains the carbon fiber firewall, full span flaperons, five gallon detachable fuel tank for easy refueling, 5 inch wheels, brakes, electric start, full lexan windshield and sunroof, fiberglass cowling, flight instrumentation, electric start, electric fuel gauge, and much more.  Powered by a 30 horsepower engine, it also offers foldable wings and a flying weight that is well below FAR Part 103 requirements at 242 pounds.  Consequently, owners / operators are free to additionally customize the airplane to meet their requirements.

Belite 254 Basic Model

The Belite 254 CF includes the highest technology carbon fiber spars and ribs, hydraulic brakes, aluminum wheels, full flight instrumentation, built in transceiver, bigger 45HP engine, enhanced electrical system, and a "Gizmo" dock for incorporation of a portable GPS.  It also includes a ballistic, full-aircraft parachute system, a "skinned" aft fuselage and an attractive, Stewart Systems covering system and distinctive paint scheme.

"The introduction of the reduced-price model of the Belite 254 is a response to potential customers who want the innovative engineering, sprightly design, and a measure of taildragger conventionality in an airplane that doesn't require an FAA registration, a pilot's license or a current medical at a price that is well below the bottom level of the Light Sport market," said James Wiebe, Chief Executive Officer of Belite Aircraft.  "They indicated that they like our airplane but wanted a basic aircraft that they can modify to their own specifications.  For those who want the fly-away convenience and a significant amount of additional capability and flexibility, the Belite 254 CF enhances the basic design with practical and safety-enhancing features like additional avionics, a parachute and the weight savings provided by carbon fiber construction.

Belite 254CF

Wiebe also indicated that Belite Aircraft will be announcing a low cost Belite 254 kit later this month.  Delivery positions for kits or finished, ready-to-fly airplanes may be reserved with a deposit of $2,500.  

FMI: www.beliteaircraft.com