Allegro Sport/Trainer - Frequently Asked Questions...

Q: What is a VLA aircraft?

A: The EASA regulation regarding the description of a VLA aircraft can be found here...
Put simply, it is an aeroplane with a single engine (spark- or compression-ignition) having not more than two seats, with a MCTOW (Maximum Certificated Take-off Weight) of not more than 750 kg and a stalling speed in the landing configuration of not more than 83 km/h (45 knots)(CAS), to be approved for day-VFR only. Regulation VLA.005 may allow an increase of MCTOW to 890 kg.

Q: What is a BMAA Permit Aircraft?

A: The BMAA is authorised by the CAA to make recommendations for the issue and renewal of Permits to Fly to aeroplanes which comply with the definition of microlights

Details at - http://www.bmaa.org/info.asp

Q: What are the weight limits in relation to the different categories?

A:

Design Code Max Gross Weight Stall Speed (power off) Max number of seats
BCAR Section S
(Microlight)
450 kg 35 knots 2
CS-VLA
(Very Light Aircraft)
750 kg 45 knots 2

Q: What are the limitations of a Permit to Fly Aircraft?

A: The limitations are contained within the CAA CAP 733 document which can be found here.


Q: Is the factory-built Ready to Fly (RTF) aircraft checked before shipping?

A: After manufacture and assembly every RTF aircraft is test flown prior to being prepared for shipping before being sent to the U.K.

Q: How much baggage can I carry?

A: The storage area can hold about 10 kilos of baggage, the area is large so bulky items can be safely stored and unlike some other aircraft the baggage is accessible in flight. There is also ample room in the cockpit with map pockets and other items.

Q: I don't have much mechanical ability - could I built the Allegro Kit?

A: The Allegro QBK comes with a very comprehensive illustrated instruction manual for assembling the aircraft including the wings, empennage, undercarriage, brakes and other systems. Also for fitting the engine, instruments and the electrics. All of the major and safety related components are finished and have been fitted to the fuselage on factory jigs to ensure correct alignment and rigging, before disassembly and packing. It is more of an assembly job than building a kit aircraft as most of the major components are already manufactured. It takes around 250 man hours in total to assemble with normal hand tools.

Q: The Allegro RTF is available with different types of engines which engine do you recommend?

A: We strongly recommend the Rotax 80 hp engine, it is economical, reliable, smooth and offers a very good power to weight ratio with a 1500 hour TBO, the 100 hp engine is recommended for hotter areas or high airfields where the extra performance may be required, or on VLA models due to the extra weight.             The Jabiru is a good option for the lowest weight = more payload, and for those who prefer the simplicity of this type of engine, being air cooled and having no gearbox.

Q: How much does the Allegro weigh and how much can it carry?

A: The normal empty weight is from 262 - 282 kg, depends on  model, engine type and level of equipment. The aircraft's MTOW is 450 to 520Kg depending on type - Microlight or VLA

Q: How fast does the Allegro fly?

A: The Allegro powered with the Rotax 80 hp engine will comfortably cruise at 95-100knots in the negative flap position burning around 12-14 litres of fuel per hour with a max straight and level speed of 115knots. Alternatively the Allegro is quite happy at 70-75knots burning only 8 litres/hour. Stall speed in the landing configuration is 35knots and and with one stage of flap, take-off will occur at about 40knots with slight back pressure. VNE is 120knots.

Q: What is the fuel capacity of the Allegro?

A: The standard aircraft comes with a 63 litre fuel tank in the belly of the aircraft; it is filled from the left hand side near the cabin door opening. Also available as an option are supplemental wing tanks for each wing which will add an additional 40 litres capacity to the aircraft, taking the total volume to 103 litres useable. This option will only be available on the VLA version.

Q Do the wings fold or are they removable?

A: The wings can be removed in less than 20 minutes. It would be preferable to hanger the aircraft rather than remove the wings each day. The aircraft is made of durable materials and could be left outside for extended periods with covers.


Q What propellers are available for the aircraft?

A: We use carbon fibre  GA-Prop or Woodcomp propellers. We have found these to be reliable, strong and very efficient performers, and were specifically designed for the Rotax 912 engines.


Q I am not the average build; can I configure the plane to fit my personal measurements?

A: The Allegro has easily adjustable seats -  both fore/aft and height and can be adjusted to suit almost all people.


Q Where is the Allegro aircraft manufactured?

A: The Allegro is manufactured in the Czech Republic by the established company Fantasy Air. The composite work is subcontracted to another Czech company Composite Airplanes who are also involved in other aircraft including the Star, the Extra 300 and 400 aircraft, Skyboy and the Apis motor-glider to name but a few.


Q What is included in the factory-built Ready to Fly (RTF) aircraft?

A: Everything you need to fly the plane away - Each aircraft is inspected and test flown after re-assembly in the UK by CAA approved engineers and test pilots.


Q What instruments are standard in the RTF? And are there other options available?

A: The RTF Allegro can be fitted with a Flight Box EFIS and engine monitoring system to save weight over conventional instruments. Details can be found here. Other EFIS systems are also available such as the DYNON range.    Also included are Compass, Slip ball, Flap position indicator, Fuel contents  and Fuel pressure gauges.

A  conventional instrument pack comprising of ASI, VSI, Altimeter, Oil pressure gauge, Oil temperature gauge, CHT, and Tacho can be supplied if required to save cost but means some of the other options cannot be fitted to the microlight version if you intend to fly at max all up weight.

There is a complete listing of accessories and options available in the price list section

Fantasy Air UK are the sole UK distributors for the Allegro . We are based conveniently in the centre of the country at Leicester. We offer full pre and post sales service and support to ensure that ownership of an Allegro is a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

 Our demonstrator will soon be available for test flights and be seen around the country at fly-ins and air shows. For peace of mind we offer a complete back-up service including assistance with kit building, spares and maintenance plans.