Steady progress toward the first flight
Update 16 July 2025
You could call us obsessed, and we are: before the Atol Aurora takes its first flight, we want to ensure it’s not only successful but also safe and beneficial for the entire test flight program.
Currently, we’re conducting final checks and fixes on our prototype aircraft. These range from triple-checking the grounding of the electrical systems after slightly off-nominal behaviour during power-up to installing a new support for a sensor inside the engine cowling (the previous one wasn’t adequate).
Some of the work is specific to an amphibious aircraft operating in Finland. For example, the anti-fog and condensation system for the hull—similar to those found on some boats—isn’t typically required, but in Finland’s rapidly changing and often wet conditions, it’s essential. While this system isn’t needed for the first flight, which will take place in good weather, we want everything fully operational from day one.
In fact, the first flight is just one step in a long journey, from the initial power-up of the electrical systems (already completed!) to simulated contingency operations. Our test flight program is possibly the most comprehensive ever developed for an LSA aircraft.
Combine our geeky aeronautical engineers with meticulous Air Force test pilots, and you get a 40+ page document with over 45 action items (number 45 is a 100-hour continuous flight operation test) before completing phase 3 of the flight program.
Sensor checked.
Details are important.
All wires verified
Before even getting airborne, the tests include engine runs, system checks, taxiing, high-speed taxiing, a short hop, and even gut feeling. A strange vibration that “doesn’t feel right” could halt testing, sending us back to the hangar to remove the wings and inspect every wire on the instrument panel.
We’re advancing meticulously according to our ground test plan, and it takes the time it takes. Despite minor issues, which are expected at this stage, we’ve avoided any major problems during testing. The runway is in sight!
We’ll explain these steps in more detail later once the program begins. So, when will that happen?
Our current estimate is the end of July, but we won’t fly until we’re ready. The Atol Aurora will be the first EASA-certified civil aircraft made in Finland and the only new amphibious aircraft in the world. We won’t jeopardise the program by rushing!.