Computerized Ignition Can Be Installed In Certified Aircraft

The first FAA Supplement Type Certificate (STC) for a pure electronic general aviation piston engine ignition system has been granted to Electroair for its first to advance ignition.  The initial STC, announced at AirVenture Monday, is engine specific for all Lycoming four cylinder engines installed on Cessna Aircraft – additional airframe eligibility will be added over the next few months. This STC allows installation of Electroair’s proprietary computerized ignition system in certificated aircraft.

Significant performance and economy improvements have been documented in use of Electroair’s ignition systems, over 2,500 of which have been previously installed in experimental aircraft. With issuance of the FAA STC, virtually all certificated general aviation aircraft will be able to enjoy the power and fuel economy the systems provide.

The Electroair electronic ignition system replaces one magneto with the following: an RPM measurement device, a manifold pressure sensor and a high output coil all controlled by a sophisticated and versatile controller to advance timing according to altitude and provide a significantly hotter, longer duration spark than previously available. Aircraft spark plugs are approved.

“Under the leadership of the Chicago Small Aircraft Directorate, the FAA provided tremendous support and careful guidance in our two-year long testing and documentation process, leading to the design approval,” said lectroair President, Michael Kobylik.

Industry sources see the very flexible electronic ignition system, perfected by Electroair as part of the answer to changes in future aviation fuel and a way to achieve large improvements in fuel consumption and performance enhancements right now.  Electroair anticipates obtaining STCs for all six cylinder Continental and Lycoming engines over the next several months.

FMI: www.electroair.net