Almost there...
Update 19 August 2025
The ground tests preceding the first flight of Atol Aurora are progressing well, though slightly behind schedule, as is often the case with such meticulous processes. The first flight is the most critical sortie for any aircraft, so our engineers are being extremely careful with every detail – from pitot tube calibration to ensuring fuel flows to the engine under extreme flight conditions.
This has involved subjecting our prototype to unimaginable positions to verify the fuel supply.
The ground tests, conducted before taxi tests and the first flight, include 23 individual checks followed by several days of paperwork. Building a plane for personal use under experimental rules would be far simpler, but as we’re developing the first Finnish LSA-certified aircraft, we must adhere to rigorous analysis and reporting requirements.
The flight instrumentation of Atol Aurora is based on the modern Garmin G3X, a fabulous system once operational, but verifying the accuracy of all data takes longer than anticipated.
Control cable tension tests, brakes, bilge water pump, and more – the list of completed tasks is extensive!
As expected with any new aircraft, we’ve encountered some minor issues that required resolution. These range from slight overweight concerns to unexpected power cuts – both typical and manageable challenges, but they generate significant additional bureaucracy.
We’re now in the final stages before the first flight, and our teams are working tirelessly to ensure something significant happens next week. No promises, but things are looking now very good!