Owais Crawford
Draco Aircraft, founded in 2023, is an aviation company that aims to revolutionize Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities with its HyperSTOL aircraft, Draco. The aircraft, set to debut in 2028, is inspired by aviation innovation and aims to push the boundaries of flight by bringing unprecedented performance and accessibility to the aviation world. Draco Aircraft is headquartered at the Reno-Stead Airport in Reno, Nevada.
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What You'll Learn
Draco Aircraft was founded in 2023
The Draco aircraft, set to debut in 2028, is inspired by a rich history of aircraft innovation. It promises to redefine the limits of short runway operations, offering aviation enthusiasts and professionals unparalleled versatility, performance, and cost-effectiveness. The aircraft is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A turboprop engine, coupled with a 102-inch, five-blade MT propeller, delivering exceptional performance.
Draco Aircraft embraces the principles of HyperSTOL, ushering in a new era of aviation design. Their aircraft sets a new standard by combining safety, luxury, and excitement. It meets the latest EASA and FAA airworthiness standards, making it a preferred choice for private owners. Draco Aircraft is committed to spearheading the HyperSTOL revolution, bringing a paradigm shift to the world of aviation.
The Draco aircraft gained fame as a highly modified "Draco" backcountry plane flown by the renowned pilot Mike Patey. In 2019, Patey attempted to take off from the Reno-Stead Airport in Nevada following the STIHL National Championship Air Races. Unfortunately, strong winds caused the plane to roll hard to the right, crashing on takeoff. Thankfully, Patey and his two passengers walked away from the incident unharmed.
Draco Aircraft represents more than just a means of flying; it symbolises the relentless pursuit of excellence and the realisation of ambitious aviation dreams. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative spirit, Draco Aircraft is poised to make a significant impact in the aviation industry.
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Draco is a short landing and takeoff aircraft
Draco was inspired by a rich legacy of aircraft innovation and aims to push the boundaries of flight by bringing unprecedented performance and accessibility to the aviation world. The aircraft is equipped with a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A turboprop engine and a 102-inch, five-blade MT propeller, which propels it to unparalleled performance. With a mere 80-foot takeoff distance, a 4,200-feet-per-minute climb, and a stall speed of around 35 mph, Draco has redefined the standards for STOL aircraft.
Draco Aircraft has confirmed that the aircraft will be certified according to EASA and FAA regulations, which are compliant with most local or regional requirements. The aircraft will also undergo full design and production in an EASA-approved factory under the direct supervision of licensed professionals. Draco will be limited to one pilot and three passengers, with a maximum takeoff weight defined according to the final type certificate.
Draco has been described as a "beast of a bush plane" and the "ultimate fixed-wing helicopter." It has captured the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and set new performance standards. The aircraft promises to redefine the limits of short runway operations, offering unparalleled versatility and cost-effectiveness.
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Draco was built and piloted by Mike Patey
Draco is a cutting-edge aviation company founded in 2023. The company's mission is to revolutionize Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities with its HyperSTOL aircraft, Draco. The aircraft is set to debut in 2028 and is inspired by a rich legacy of aircraft innovation. Draco Aircraft aims to push the boundaries of flight, bringing unprecedented performance and accessibility to the aviation world.
Patey's pursuit of excellence in aviation is exemplified by Draco's design and performance. The aircraft is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A turboprop engine, coupled with a 102-inch, five-blade MT propeller. This combination propels Draco to unparalleled performance, offering aviation enthusiasts and professionals versatility and cost-effectiveness.
In 2019, Patey and Draco experienced a crash during takeoff from the Reno-Stead Airport due to high winds in the region. Patey and his two passengers walked away from the crash unharmed. Patey's handling of the emergency demonstrated his skill and quick thinking as a pilot.
Overall, Draco, built and piloted by Mike Patey, represents a significant advancement in aviation technology and a testament to Patey's relentless pursuit of excellence in flight.
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Draco crashed at Reno-Stead Airport in 2019
Draco, a highly modified short landing and takeoff aircraft, crashed at Reno-Stead Airport in Nevada in 2019. The aircraft was piloted by Mike Patey, a world-record-breaking pilot with a large social media following.
Patey was attempting to take off from the airport after the STIHL National Championship Air Races when strong winds caused the aircraft to roll hard to the right, with its right wing striking the tarmac. The aircraft then spun to a stop, and both wings were crumpled. Patey and his two passengers, including his wife, were unharmed in the crash.
In the aftermath, Patey posted a video to his YouTube channel, as well as on Instagram and Facebook, in which he took full responsibility for the incident, calling it a "pilot error". He noted that he had options such as choosing a different runway or waiting for the winds to subside. Patey also expressed his heartbreak over the destruction of Draco, stating that its airshow performances and racing were over.
Draco, a modified Wilga with 680 SHP, drooped ailerons, massive flaps, and leading-edge devices, was known for its exceptional short takeoff and landing capabilities. It had gained popularity as a "badass bushplane" and was piloted and built by Patey, who is known for pushing the boundaries of aviation. The crash at Reno-Stead Airport in 2019 brought an end to Draco's performances, but the aircraft's legacy continues with the development of the DRACO HyperSTOL aircraft, inspired by Draco's rich legacy.
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Draco is set to debut in 2028
Draco Aircraft, founded in 2023, is an aviation company with a mission to revolutionise Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities. The company is set to debut its flagship HyperSTOL aircraft, Draco, in 2028.
Draco Aircraft aims to push the boundaries of flight by offering unprecedented performance and accessibility to the aviation world. The aircraft is named after a rich legacy of aircraft innovation. The name Draco is derived from a visionary aviator, entrepreneur, and innovator, Mike Patey, who built and flew the original Draco.
The Draco aircraft promises to redefine the limits of short runway operations, offering aviation enthusiasts and professionals unparalleled versatility and cost-effectiveness. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A turboprop engine, coupled with a 102-inch, five-blade MT propeller, Draco will deliver unparalleled performance.
The debut of the Draco aircraft in 2028 will mark a significant milestone in the aviation industry, showcasing the relentless pursuit of pushing the boundaries of what is possible in aviation. With its modern design and advanced capabilities, Draco will not only meet the demands of today's pilots but also adhere to the latest EASA and FAA airworthiness standards.
As Draco Aircraft gears up for its highly anticipated debut in 2028, the company invites interested individuals to book a spot in their group presentation to learn more about why Draco is the aircraft of choice for those seeking cutting-edge performance, innovation, and excellence in the skies.
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