DarkAero 1
2 Occupants
Side by Side
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
mph
275 mph
Cruise Speed
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
sm
1700 sm
Range at 275 mph
750 lb
Useful Load
Every aircraft is designed for a mission. Our mission required speed, range, and efficiency, but no aircraft in existence had the capability to meet our needs. This is what led us to start DarkAero. We selected the most advanced piston engine and designed an airframe around it built from the lightest and strongest materials. The result is an aircraft we're calling the DarkAero 1.

DarkAero 1 Projected Specs


Cruise Speed
275 mph
Stall Speed
70 mph
Rate of Climb
2500 ft/min
Fuel Capacity
77 US gallons
Length
18 ft
G Loading
Normal Category
Landing Gear
Tricycle Retractable
Range at 275 mph
1700 sm
Useful Load
750 lb
Empty Weight
750 lb
Horsepower
200 hp
Wingspan
23 ft 5 in
Cockpit Width
43 in
Wing Area
66 ft2
Ceiling
20,000 ft





Engine

The airframe of the DarkAero 1 is designed specifically around the 200 hp, electronically controlled UL Power UL520iS engine. The UL520iS is significantly lighter and smaller than traditional aircraft engines of the same horsepower. The engine's low weight and tight packaging make for a light aircraft with minimal drag.

Hollow Grid Technology

The DarkAero 1 uses a unique structural approach we call "Hollow Grid." Hollow Grid is an arrangement of CNC cut, carbon fiber and honeycomb sandwich panel ribs and shear webs. All the compression, tension, and torsional loading is carried through the outer skin while the Hollow Grid helps the skin maintain its shape and prevent buckling. This approach results in assemblies that are stronger and lighter when compared to other structural approaches.

Simplified Build Process

The DarkAero 1 was designed to require only simple shop tools and no complex jigs or fixtures to complete. The carbon fiber composite airframe of the DarkAero 1 is formed using computer designed, precision CNC machined tooling. The end result is smooth, accurate parts that fit together with minimal sanding required to achieve final finishes.

Payload vs Range

All of these advantages combine to create an aircraft with exceptional speed and range, while maintaining a functional payload. The payload vs range chart below highlights this capability (calculated).

The Kit Includes:

Airframe
Canopy
Engine Mount
Landing Gear
Control Hardware
Fittings and Fasteners
Kit Plans

Purchased Separately:

UL Power 520iS Engine
Avionics
Propeller
Wheels and Brakes
Paint

Estimated Complete Cost: $200,000 USD

If you have additional questions about the DarkAero 1, check out our FAQ page here.



Reserve Now

Initial taxi testing of the DarkAero 1 has already begun, and flight testing is targeted to commence in 2024. Production of the first customer kits will follow the completion of flight testing.

If you would like to reserve a production slot for a DarkAero 1 kit, we are accepting reservation deposits. The deposit is $1000 USD. Click the "Reserve Now" button below to contact us about placing a deposit.