The private-aircraft builder Cobalt has unveiled its first model, the five-seat Cobalt Co50 Valkyrie. The futuristic-looking plane is the culmination of CEO David Loury’s decade-long endeavor to create the fastest, safest private airplane in the single-piston-engine aircraft category. It is one of only a few aircraft that features a small wing at the nose, called a “canard,” which, when paired with a rear-facing propulsion system, helps improve lift and thus performance -
After sketching early drafts of the Co50 Valkyrie in 2005, Loury built five prototypes and launched an ongoing flight-test program to perfect the final version. Cobalt says that it plans to seek full FAA certification for the aircraft, various iterations of which the company has displayed at trade shows in recent years.
The plane has a cutting-edge design aimed at performance and safety. Cobalt says the aircraft is capable of traveling as fast as about 300 mph, which would make it the fastest single-piston-engine plane. (Other aircraft in this class typically do not reach speeds faster than about 280 mph.) Designed with anti-stall capability, the aircraft would also be one of the safest in the category.
Inspired by fighter jets, the Valkyrie features clean exterior lines and leather seats handstitched by former Hermès craftsmen. The company says that, in addition to seating as many as five people (including the pilot), the aircraft will also offer enough storage space for luggage, golf clubs, and even skis. Cobalt says that it can customize the interior and exterior of the plane
The Top 5 Features: Introducing the Co50 Valkyrie and Valkyrie-X
1.Built for speed. The Valkyrie is the fastest private aircraft in its class with the ability to travel up to 260 knots. In contrast, other single engine piston aircraft usually tap out at 242 knots. Cobalt’s Valkyrie is the fastest single engine piston plane in its category.
2.Super safe. The Valkyrie is a canard aircraft, equipped with a forewing to prevent the plane from stalling in the air. This provides a tremendous peace of mind to pilots and ensures the industry’s safest landings and takeoffs. Cobalt promotes the highest standards of safety in the industry. An onboard parachute is also provided for an additional sense of security.
3.Modern, elegant design and craftsmanship. Inspired by classic fighter jets with clean lines and premium finishes, the Valkyrie impresses with understated elegance. The exterior comes in a range of custom finishes including dark colors, typically harder on composites. The interior features premium leather seats, hand stitched by former Hermès craftsmen. The dashboard design is equally impressive with only one on/off switch and a tasteful place for your iPad. Cobalt
will exclusively manufacture the Valkyrie in California to ensure quality standards and fast delivery to early buyers.
4.Amazing visibility. Pilots flying Cobalt’s Valkyrie will appreciate the beautiful, expansive visibility above and below. Valkyrie has the largest one-piece canopy in the world and unrivaled visibility with a 320-degree view. 5.Luxurious comfort. The Valkyrie comfortably seats five people, including the pilot, with ample storage for golf clubs, skis and suitcases. The Valkyrie’s propulsion engine is located in the rear of the plane, allowing for a quiet, comfortable cabin.
5- Additional Specifications: Category: 5-seat Single Engine Piston Turbocharged 350HP, retractable, IFR-capable Oxygenized non-pressurized Cruise range: 1050 nautical miles (nmi) with NBAA IFR reserves Customization: Interior and exterior are fully customizable upon request Exact dimensions: 30 feet long x 30 feet wide x 10 feet high
Deposits for the certified version, with an introductory price of $699,000, are accepted at $15,000 a piece
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