Redesigned Canopy, Cockpit, And Landing Gear On Australian Light Sport

The latest version of the TL-2000 Sting aircraft was introduced at Aero Friedrichshafen, which wrapped up last week. The new Sting aircraft known as the Series 4, or "S4" for short, features many improvements which TL says further refine this already mature aircraft.

Starting from the top, the canopy has been completely redesigned to not only improve the pilot and passenger comfort when entering and exiting the aircraft but also to improve the structure's strength and ventilation. Additionally, closing and locking the canopy has been simplified and a new canopy frame has further improved the already excellent canopy sealing, visibility when flying the aircraft and taxiing remains unchanged. The major improvement is that the canopy now hinges on the engine firewall as shown in the photographs. The canopy is still opened using gas lift struts which makes both opening and closing the canopy a one-handed operation. To assist entry and exit into the cockpit has seen the addition of several conveniently located grab handles and ventilation controls are now fitted into the canopy frame itself allowing both the pilot and passenger the opportunity to further fine tune the air direction and quantity to suit their requirements.

The cockpit has been re-designed to accommodate a new, larger instrument panel. The panel size and shape has been extended to fit many of the large IFR category glass instruments which have recently been introduced. In addition, the bottom edge of the instrument panel has been lifted slightly to improve legroom. The adjustable rudder pedals on previous versions of the Sting aircraft have been completely redesigned into an easy adjustable configuration with nine inches of fore and aft travel. The adjustment is done by pulling on a grab handle placed between your legs and pulling it to adjust the pedals to the most comfortable position.

Rounding out the interior, the manual flap handle, which has been a feature of the Sting aircraft since its inception, has been replaced with a new electric controller and electric flap system, and the baggage compartment behind the seats has been enlarged for easier stowing and transportation of luggage up to an improved maximum weight of 55 pounds. The new luggage area is completely upholstered and covered with a cargo net.

TL says the landing gear is arguably the most significant modification on the new series of Sting aircraft, resulting in an undercarriage system which allows for very easy taxiing on the ground and also provides for softer landing with a new high-energy absorption system. This undercarriage also includes new aerodynamic wheel covers. Another significant modification and aerodynamic improvement includes the new nose cowling which provides more aggressive looks but improves cooling for the Rotax engine. The rudder and vertical tail fin has been modified and results in higher aircraft rudder stability at all flight speeds.

FMI: www.mcp.com.au/sting