We were discussing up coming projects and we touched on my enthusiasm for the DTA Jro. ( I think its a very pretty looking machine)
Please do not shoot the messenger (this happens often in the Gyro community) I think if we all shared info in a constructive way it will add to safety.
After I put the phone down with PC received this email regarding the DTA, and an hour later he sent me some info on the ELA
use it or lose it or if any one has experience with these machines please share? His comments regarding the Pax seating I must confess for a person who is under 6ft was never a problem or was not uncomfortable.
I have not had comment from Chris Lord in the USA regarding the ELA and I think it could be that he is no longer the agent
Eclipse : and take this info very very seriously !
1. TAIL ASSEMBLY PRONE TO CRACKS
2. FUEL TANKS LEAK
3. CANOPY LATCHES ARE PRONE TO OPEN IN FLIGHT
4. CRACKS REPORTED IN ENGINE MOUNTINGS
5. ELA recently changed all under carriage legs, they claim it was to increase AUW to 600 kg this was done in France where 450 k.g soon to be 500 is in force ( smoke and mirrors) in practise here,
* walk away from this machine *
DTA
Comments from a very senior test engineer global consultant Auto-Rotation re your DTA experience.
1 $60,000 more expensive than the Aussie /Tag
2. Most net pics of this machine have it upside down/ ground looped !
3. Huge cracking issues in the fuselage.
4. Not enough structure around doors and engine cowling.
5. Sitting in the rear is like giving birth with your feet up !
