The ZODIAC XL is the
newest model in the popular all-metal ZODIAC kit aircraft series from aeronautical
engineer Chris Heintz, offering more
performance and many new standard features.
The ZODIAC XL has been
developed with the FAA's Sport Pilot /
Light-Sport Aircraft category in
mind, and offers maximum performance and capability possible under
the new FAA category.
Simple and
quick to build — easy and fun to
fly!
The new ZODIAC XL
design offers superior performance and capabilities, comfortable
side-by-side seating, affordable costs, and best of all, the ZODIAC
is available as a durable all-metal kit that you can quickly build
yourself - with just basic skills and tools.
Build your own
Zodiac XL from:
An August 2006 feature story
in Loop magazine (UK) concludes that with the
Zodiac, "...a relatively low tech aircraft, built traditionally,
can still deliver hugely enjoyable flying and take you places for
very little money."
The ZODIAC is
easy and affordable to build and fly, yet it's an airplane you
won't easily outgrow: The ZODIAC XL is the perfect project for the
first-time builder and the demanding sport pilot, bridging the
gap between performance flying and affordable
costs.
 | Zodiac XL Cover Story: The Zodiac XL was
recently featured on the cover of EAA Sport Pilot & Light-Sport Aircraft
magazine (December 2006 issue). The Zodiac CH
601XL... Have It Your Way. Ready-to-fly, ready-to-build, or
IFR capable
by Dan
Johnson (pages 24 - 31).
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 | Factory-Assembled
ZODIAC XL S-LSA: Aircraft
Manufacturing and Development's (AMD) Zodiac XL S-LSA production
aircraft with a Continental O-200 powerplant and Dynon glass
panel. |
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The all-metal, two-seat design
features a new wing and canopy design, as well as many additional
new features. Zenith's ZODIAC XL factory demonstrator is powered by
the six cylinder Jabiru 3300, a 110-hp aircraft engine from
Australia. Lycoming O-235 (116-hp), Continental O-200 (100-hp), and Rotax 912S (100-hp) and Corvair (100-hp) engines have also been
installed and and successfully flown.
Jabiru Engines
Rotax Engines
"Since its introduction in 1984, the
Zodiac CH601 series has become
very popular with first-time builders and low-time pilots" says
Heintz. "The new model is designed to achieve maximum performance
and efficiency with the new generation engines: the six-cylinder
Jabiru, the new 100-hp Rotax 912S, and Subaru automotive conversions, as
well as popular conventional aircraft engines, such as the Lycoming
O-235 and O-200."
The ZODIAC CH 601 XL has a new airfoil
and larger wing area than its predecessor, which allows the new
aircraft to achieve higher speeds with a higher payload. With new
wing flaps, stall speed has been kept low for recreational
pilots.
The XL has been configured to take
full advantage of its increased useful load: New and larger wing
tanks offer a larger fuel capacity (24 US Gal.) resulting in
superior range and endurance, and the baggage area behind the seat
has also been increased.
