Model 143 - Triumph

Model 143 - Triumph. Aircraft N143SC. , Model 143-Triumph , A/C SNN143SC , Acquired May, 2006 , From Burt Rutan, Scaled Composites (Donated) , Displayed March, 2007 , , Scaled Composites was purchased by Raytheon, the parent company of Beech Aircraft. Rutan was tasked with designing a twin engine cabin aircraft that could alternatively be powered by piston, turboprop or turbofan engines. The resulting three-surface configuration aircraft was the Model 143 Triumph. Construction started on two airframes, but only one was completed, powered by two Williams FJ-44 turbofan engines. The all-composite Triumph, a pressurized 8-seat corporate aircraft, performed its first flight on July 12, 1988, which was also the first flight test of the FJ-44. The subsequent test program, which consisted of over 100 hours of flight tests, confirmed the performance and operating characteristics of both the engines and the airplane. The Triumph was tested to over 41,000 ft, at speeds up to .69 Mach. Pressurization systems were developed, installed and tested, basic handling qualities and performance tests were conducted, and a significant body of engine tests was performed. Problems with the FAA certification process for the first All Composite Aircraft caused delays and finally cancelled the program. After completion of the flight test program, the aircraft was retired and mounted at Mojave Airport in front of the Scaled Composites facilities. In 2006, the aircraft was donated to the airpark by Burt Rutan. , , Triumph Model 143 , General Information , Manufacturer: Scaled Composites (for Beechcraft) , Production Period: 1988 , Number Produced: One , Production Series: Model 143 , Roles: Business aircraft prototype (designed by Burt Rutan) , , Performance and Specifications , Maximum Speed: 460 mph , Service Ceiling: 41,000 feet above sea level , Range: N/A , Crew: One pilot , Capacity: Seven passengers , Length: 37 feet, 9 inches , Wingspan: 38 feet, 10 inches , Height: 11 fest, 8 inches , Gross Weight: 8,500 lbs , Powerplant: Two Williams International RJ-44 turbofans , Achievements: First flight at Mojave Airport on July 12, 1988; the first all composite aircraft.