Explorer Aircraft Lands in Waller County
[New Experimental Aircraft Arrives at Houston Executive Airport]
[Waller County, TX, August 15, 2022] On August 11th Explorer Aircraft, Inc. CEO Bryan Lynch, and test pilot Leonard “Len” Fox, successfully flew the new experimental Explorer 500T proof-of-concept aircraft from Cheyenne, Wyoming to Houston Executive Airport. The aircraft has been going through the necessary flight testing to validate the design and flight characteristics. It will remain here for the foreseeable future as the group continues to plan for a new manufacturing facility.
The Explorer 500T is a turbine powered workhorse of the Explorer family of aircraft. It is described by Explorer CEO, Bryan Lynch, as the “pickup truck of the sky.” The 500T features a flexible configuration to accommodate private, business or other operations. The 500T has a total of 300 cu.ft. of cargo space and a useful load of 3,200 lbs. and cruises at 190 kts. The group also plans another design called the 750T which is a larger version with increased carrying capacity.
Using composites and lighter, stronger airframes, the new line of aircraft will enhance fuel economy, be flexible for customized refitting, and use a much shorter runway for take-off and landing. The application ranges from simple cargo delivery to advanced military uses. “This is a unique aircraft with a bright future,” said Waller County Economic Development (WCEDP) Executive Director, Vince Yokom.
The WCEDP has been in discussions with Explorer since January of 2021. Houston Executive Airport Executive Director Andrew Perry said, “We are excited to have the Explorer Aircraft based here at Houston Executive Airport, and are elated to watch this aircraft begin making its own history.”
The group is planning a 300,000 square foot production facility. Lynch, added, “We are looking at several potential locations for our new facility. We would prefer to be right here at Houston Executive, but this will eventually be a business decision.” Yokom continued, “We hope they can produce the aircraft right here in Waller County. We know it will be a challenge in today’s economy, but it just might be the solution for those customers looking to capture savings from increased efficiencies of a modern aerodynamic design.”