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The COUGAR represented an effort to design a high-speed retractable-gear, four-place cruiser that could cruise at more than 200 mph while maintaining a relatively modest cost for both acquisition and operation.
The COUGAR was built at the Max Westheimer airport by skilled fabricators and volunteers (students, pilots...). The base airframe is the Piper PA-28R-200 "Arrow" then highly modified for high speed.
The Bergey Aerospace "COUGAR" BA-14-001 first flew on July 14, 2018. A successful test flight with many test cards completed, happy mechanics and best of all, safe and happy pilot. Flight tests continue.
We continue to show off the airplane as we make plans for the future. Send us a message and let us know what you think of this unique project.
Why do we do this? Because we want to share what we're passionate about. How can we inspire you?
Wing Span: 32.2 ft
Length: 25.6 ft
Wing Area: 171 sq.ft
Aspect Ratio: 6.06
Empty Weight: 1812 lbs
T.O. Weight: 3100 lbs
Wing Loading: 18.13 lbs/sq.ft
Span Loading: 96.3 lbs/ft
Service Ceiling: 22,000 ft
Fuel Capacity: 85 gal
Range: 1000 st. mi
A cooperative project between Bergey Aerospace Co., Inc., The University of Oklahoma School of Aerospace Engineering and Piper Aircraft, the COUGAR represented an effort to design Piper's next high-speed retractable-gear, four-place cruiser that could cruise at more than 200 mph while maintaining a relatively modest cost for both acquisition and operation. The COUGAR is dedicated to enabling Oklahoma students and volunteers to engineer aircraft systems and develop flight test programs.
Its design is based on using a number of component parts from a Piper Arrow, PA-28R. It is powered by a Lycoming IO-540-KIG5 engine rated at 300 hp at 2700 rpm and swinging a three-blade Hartzell propeller. It’s design features, include double doors, fore and aft baggage compartments, tip tanks to provide an IFR range of 910 miles, and a tuned and ducted exhaust system that improves exhaust scavenging, engine cooling, and does not require a muffler for noise control.
UPDATE (2/20/2017):
We have received a Special Airworthiness Certificate (Experimental Exhibition) from the FAA and have invited Terry Tomeny of TomenyAero Inc. to develop a flight test program. Terry has visited us in Norman and is excited to get the COUGAR airborne and conduct a thorough and safe set of flight tests.
UPDATE (7/14/2017):
First Flight of N456BA - the Bergey Aerospace "COUGAR" BA-14-001. We had wheels up from Max Westheimer (KOUN) this morning at around 7:30am after successful ground checks and had wheels on the ground at 8:30am. A successful test flight with many maneuver cards completed, happy mechanics and best of all, safe and happy pilot. Thanks to everyone who has been following our progress and thanks to the crew who pulled together to make this possible. The fun is just beginning!
UPDATE (11/17/2018):
We've been quiet but busy - new partnerships are in the work for the COUGAR. We'll replace this note with details the moment we're ready to announce the latest.
UPDATE (3/3/2019):
To remain flexible with our business operations, Bergey Aerospace Co. Inc, is now Bergey Aviation, LLC. Same great people, new paperwork filed with the state of Oklahoma.
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