Oshkosh, WI, July 24 2012 — Magnaghi Aeronautica, the Italian aerospace group that manufactures the Sky Arrow aircraft series, introduced a highly updated Sky Arrow light-sport aircraft (LSA) during a press conference at the Magnaghi booth at the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh today. Enhancements shown to media and interested buyers alike include new extended wing tanks, modified aerodynamics on the stabilizer, and a new, streamlined leaf-spring landing gear. Other new components, such as Beringer wheels and brakes, will guarantee better ground handling. A 10-inch Dynon SkyView system and a completely redesigned instrument panel are part of the cockpit updates to the Sky Arrow. This first new LSA Sky Arrow features navy blue fuselage stripes and registration numbers, as well as a stylish matte blue/gray interior. The traditional “Italian red” accent colors will still be available on request.
Magnaghi Aeronautica also introduced a Sky Arrow designed as an Aerial Work Platform-ONE (AWP-ONE), with ONE standing for Observation, News, and Law Enforcement. The Sky Arrow AWP is available in three more payload configurations, with different sensors allowing terrain mapping (TMA), environmental research (ERA), and early wildfire detection (WFD). The Sky Arrow AWP-ONE at the booth features a Goodrich sensorial system based on a TASE 300 gyro-stabilized camera, allowing videoing and recording of activities on the ground. That system was demonstrated to the media as well. “We are on a dual track for both the recreational and professional market – commented Giorgio Iannotti, Magnaghi’s Chief Operating Officer - with a highly proven design which encompasses the highest operational flexibility and flying qualities.”
The Sky Arrow is an Italian all-composite, high-wing aircraft with tandem seating in a pusher configuration. It was first introduced in 1992. Several hundred Sky Arrows, in versions ranging from LSA models to FAR Part 23 certificated aircraft, are currently operated worldwide. For further information, visit www.skyarrow.it.
About Magnaghi Aeronautica S.p.A.
With 600 employees and a 2011 book of business of about $120M, Magnaghi Aeronautica S.p.A. Group is one of Italy’s leading manufacturers of aerospace equipment and parts, both in the defense and civilian fields. It also includes the companies Salver and
Metal Sud. Magnaghi designs, qualifies and produces composite landing gear systems and hydraulic components as well as other composite airframe parts, such as control surfaces and turbofan nacelles for civilian transport aircraft.
Magnaghi Aeronautica was founded in Naples in 1936 and began by manufacturing parts for Italian military aircraft. A turnaround for the company happened in 2001, when entrepreneur Paolo Graziano acquired all Magnaghi’s assets and led the Group into research and development activities, providing broader know-how and growing revenues. Investments and strategic operations resulted in the current design capabilities for high-tech products, allowing Magnaghi Group to expand internationally in the aerospace industry. Today major OEM end customers include Airbus, Agusta-Westland, Alenia-Aermacchi, Boeing, Bombardier, and Piaggio Aero Industries.
