Emerald Coast XL2 Sport

The Emerald Coast XL2 Sport is an American powered parachute that was designed and produced by Emerald Coast Aircraft.[1]

XL2
Role Powered parachute
National origin United States
Manufacturer Emerald Coast Aircraft
Introduction 2000
Status Production completed

The aircraft is no longer in production.

Design and development

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The aircraft was designed as a US FAR 103 Ultralight Vehicles two-seat trainer. It features a parachute-style high-wing, two seats in tandem, tricycle landing gear and a single 50 hp (37 kW) Rotax 503 engine in pusher configuration.[1]

The aircraft is built from a combination of bolted and welded 4130 steel tubing. In flight steering is accomplished via foot pedals that actuate the canopy brakes via a 2:1 ratio block system, creating roll and yaw. On the ground the aircraft has lever-controlled nosewheel steering. The main landing gear incorporates sprung steel landing gear with large tundra tires.[1]

When it was in production the XL2 was supplied in a number of forms. It could be purchased as a fully assembled and test flown aircraft, for US$9000 in 2003. It was also available as a just the basic carriage for US$3000 in 2003, with the buyer supplying his or her own canopy, instruments, engine and propeller. The company also built custom versions to order.[1]

Specifications (XL2 Sport)

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Data from Cliche[1]

General characteristics

  • Crew: one
  • Capacity: one passenger
  • Wing area: 550 sq ft (51 m2)
  • Empty weight: 289 lb (131 kg)
  • Fuel capacity: 10 U.S. gallons (38 L; 8.3 imp gal)
  • Powerplant: 1 × Rotax 503 twin cylinder, two-stroke, air-cooled aircraft engine, 50 hp (37 kW)

Performance

  • Cruise speed: 28 mph (45 km/h, 24 kn)
  • Rate of climb: 700 ft/min (3.6 m/s)

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e Cliche, Andre: Ultralight Aircraft Shopper's Guide 8th Edition, page D-6. Cybair Limited Publishing, 2001. ISBN 0-9680628-1-4