Mooney International introduced the M10T and M10 at Airshow China, Zhuhai; its first new models since the company was acquired in early 2014 by Chinese investors.
Both are two-seaters of all-composite construction and feature Mooney’s trademark forward-swept fin and rudder. The fixed-gear M10T will be powered by a 135hp Continental CD-135 turbo diesel engine and is aimed at the training market, and to provide a stepping-stone to Mooney’s M20 series. The retractable gear M10J, which was displayed in full-size mock-up form at the show, will have a 155hp Continental CD-155 and promises cruising speeds in excess of 170kt and a range of more than 1,000nm. Both will be able to operate on Avgas or diesel fuel. Certification and first deliveries are expected in 2017. No announcement was made as to where the M10s will be manufactured, but China, rather than Mooney’s Kerville, Texas, headquarters, seems likely. Prices will be “competitive”.
“We designed the all-new M10J model with long-time Mooney fans in mind,” said Mooney Chief Executive Officer Dr Jerry Chen at the launch ceremony. “The M20J helped change general aviation by making flying practical to more people across the US. Now the M10J promises to do the same not just (there) but also in China as its general aviation industry quickly develops. These aircraft mark a new beginning for Mooney and are an indication of great product innovation coupled with Mooney’s long line of history making aircraft.”
Mooney has used the M10 designation previously when it produced the Cadet, a single-fin development of the long-lived Ercoupe/Aircoupe/Alon A-2. Only 61 were built, in 1969.
