Diesel aircraft certifications making progress

Diesel Fuel News, May 12, 2003

Aircraft engine maker Thielert confirms that its "Centurion 1.7" engine is now certified according to JAR-E in Europe, and it's awaiting FAR-33 certification through the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) soon. "We have included the FAA in the whole certification program from the beginning," explains Thielert Aircraft Engines spokesman Sebastian Wentzler.

"The FAA has confirmed that we have submitted all necessary documentations. Once the engine certification is validated, retrofit kits for Cessna 172 and Piper PA 28 will be available in the U.S." Diamond Aircraft also hopes to certify new twin-engine diesel aircraft next year. All these engines will use regular kero-jet fuel, a light cut of diesel fuel. FAA wants comment on its new diesel-powered aircraft policy (see Diesel Fuel News 3/17/03, p8).