German aircraft maker Flight Design has delayed further development of their four-seat C4 aircraft until the FAA's Federal Aviation Regulation Part 23 (FAR23) is reviewed.
The new regulations are believed to make it easier for aircraft to be certified in the charter category, which is Flight Design's aim for the C4.
The aircraft is now slated for first flight mid-2014, with first deliveries the following year.
Flight Design has made its name building composite and all-metal Light Sport Aircraft (LSAs), and the C4 is its first foray into general aviation.
Still at the mock-up stage, the C4 will be an all-composite, strutless high wing powered by a 180 HP Continental engine capable of burning alternative fuels. Flight Design is also seeking an engine partner to offer a turbo-diesel engine option.
Current projections show that the C4 will cruise around 155 knots and have a useful load of 600 kg. Target price is $US250,000
Flight Design management has stated that should the FAR23 rewrite take too long, the company will consider certifying the C4 in the primary category only.