Bristell trainer certified
Czech-made B23 deliveries expected in Q4
European light sport aircraft maker BRM Aero announced September 10 that it expects to begin delivering its newly FAA-certified two-seat trainer to the United States by the end of the year.
The company, founded in 2009, has already delivered more than 1,100 LSA worldwide. The larger, upgraded B23 was granted FAA type certification under FAR Part 23 for the 100-horsepower two-seater, positioning the company to join the push to ramp up professional pilot training amid ongoing and projected shortages worldwide.
The company plans to expand its North American dealer network rapidly while pursuing type certification of additional engine options, and for instrument flight rules capability. The initial certification includes the Rotax 912S3 engine with a 2,000-hour time between overhaul that sips 4.5 gallons of avgas or unleaded automotive fuel per hour. Vice President of Sales David Copeland said in the press release that training operators will see operating costs up to 35 percent lower than comparable aircraft, and private owners will appreciate the 700-nautical-mile range and spacious interior. A BRS airframe parachute is also standard equipment. (Copeland did not immediately respond to an inquiry about the expected price.)
The aircraft has a 1,654-pound maximum takeoff weight, and 662 pounds of useful load. The cabin, at 51 inches wide, was touted as the widest in its class.
The Bristell B23 is the second aircraft granted its initial FAA type certificate under Part 23 this year, following the French-built two-seater from Elixir Aircraft certified in July, and also aiming to supply the flight training market with deliveries to commence in 2026. Elixir has not yet revealed pricing for the U.S. market, though it sells in Europe for around 400,000 euros.
BRM Aero also notes on its website that the B23, while similar in appearance to the LSA version that preceded it, has been significantly updated based on customer feedback. The fuselage is longer, control surfaces are larger, and the landing gear has been upgraded to handle the heavier loads of a certified aircraft. The basic equipment includes a steerable nosewheel and equipment for night VFR flight.
