Super Petrel XP light sport gets a power boost
The Super Petrel XP, an amphibious light sport biplane already known for its spirited performance, is getting a boost in horsepower that comes with the surprising bonus of decreased fuel consumption and a significantly longer time between overhauls.
Introduced in 2022, the Super Petrel XP caused a sensation among light sport enthusiasts with its impressive power and ability to operate from short fields and waterways, thanks largely to its turbocharged, 141-horsepower Rotax 915iS engine. A year’s worth of Super Petrel production sold out in weeks, according to the manufacturer.
AOPA Pilot Editor at Large Dave Hirschman traveled to Ormond Beach for a demonstration flight in the Super Petrel. In addition to the performance boost, the flight covered some of the differences in flying technique between this aircraft and traditional floatplanes.
The 2022 XP was a big step up in performance over the earlier version with a Rotax 912 engine. The latest engine upgrade boosts the aircraft to 160 horsepower and extends the TBO to 2,000 hours from 1,200 for the 915iS. The new engine is also more efficient, extending the aircraft’s range while carrying the same fuel load as the 915-powered version. The airplane uses an E-Props Excalibur 5 propeller with its blades set to 29 degrees for “some serious bite,” the company said.
Scoda Aeronáutica has built 10 XPs with the 915iS. Beginning with the next aircraft out the door, serial number 415, all XPs will come with the 916iS.
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