The Model 309 was a Proof-of-Concept aircraft
built for Adam
Aircraft Industries of Denver, Colorado. Their goal
was to provide a very safe twin-engine aircraft that gives
good performance and benign single engine handling qualities.
Second, provide an aircraft that incorporates technology
in the way of composite structure and modern avionics
- a pilot-friendly cockpit that really brings the computer-age
to the instrument panel.
The centerline thrust configuration was
chosen because it significantly reduces the hazards of
single-engine flying qualities and performance, compared
to twins in the conventional arrangement. The cabin was
designed to carry a pilot and five passengers in pressurized
comfort with an unpressurized baggage space in the nose,
and the remainder of baggage residing in the cabin aft
of the rear seats. It was powered by two Continental TSIO-550-G
engines that give good high-altitude performance and provide
pressurization. The tricycle landing gear was retractable
with the trailing-link mains folding into the booms.
The immediate goal of this program was to
develop the aircraft for aerodynamic refinement; however,
there were several features that are more representative
of the production airplane than might be expected. For
instance, there are several major structural components
that were produced as single cure parts. The outboard
wings, horizontal tail, elevator, rudders and flaperons
had no secondary bonds in their primary structure. This
allows lighter, stronger and safer structure due to the
significant elimination of fasteners and secondary bonds.
This project marks the most rapid manned-aircraft
development program in Scaled’s history. Conceptual
design started in May of 1999, the first tool was cut
late in August, and the first flight was on March 21,
2000. The aircraft was unveiled to a small group of guests
on April 5, 2000. After an aggressive flight test and
refinement program, the aircraft was delivered to Adam.
The M309 can now be viewed on display at the Wings
Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum.
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