Sonex Aircraft, LLC has announced that the number one prototype of its new Onex single-place, folding-wing kit aircraft made its first flight on January 27 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Piloted by Sonex General Manager, CEO and Onex designer Jeremy Monnett, the AeroVee-powered N111NX made an extensive flight, orbiting the field. Monnett also made a low approach before landing, signifying his satisfaction with the initial handling and performance of the aircraft, the company says.
“The airplane is sweet,” said Monnett upon landing. “It feels great!” In celebration of the achievement, the “Corsair-style” wing-fold system was employed before stowing the aircraft back into the Hornets Nest R&D hangar.
Next steps in the development of the Onex include a complete and thorough flight testing program to explore the full performance envelope and flight characteristics of the aircraft, along with completion, first flight and testing of Onex prototype number two, a trigear version.
More information about the Onex can be obtained by watching an upcoming Onex webinar to be hosted by EAA and presented by Monnett on February 2 at 7 p.m. Central time. For more information and to sign up for continuing updates, visit www.SonexAircraft.com.
