Gareth's Southern Odyssey (6 and final)

Carrying on down the road from Queenstown Gareth Arscott called into Mandeville and then further on to Gore on 24 November 2024:

Where he photo'd Bill Sutherland's Red Diesel powered Fletcher FU 24-954 ZK-EUC.  I am not sure if it is still a FU 24-954 model with the new engine.

The Red A03-003 engine is a modern common rail V 12 diesel which produces 500 HP, and the conversion has been carried out by Phoenix Aviation Maintenance (2021) Ltd for Bill Sutherland's company Diesel Air New Zealand Ltd who are the STC holder for the conversion.  The 500 HP diesel is projected to have a 20% fuel saving over the 400 HP Lycoming IO-720 and it can burn more efficient fuels such as kerosene.

The aircraft first flew with the diesel engine on 26/5/22 and was to undergo a Flight Test Schedule to complete its Experimental certification, but I am not sure how this has progressed.

Thanks for your series of photos Gareth.  I have enjoyed posting them.