Firefly

Slingsby Firefly

The Slingsby Firefly is a conventional low-wing, two-seat training aircraft with a fixed tricycle undercarriage.

The Defence Elementary Flying Training School (DEFTS) at RAF Barkston Heath, Lincolnshire, operates two versions - the T67M Mk2, which is powered by a 160 hp Textron Lycoming engine driving a constant-speed, composite two-blade propeller, and the more powerful T67M 260, which has a 260 hp Textron Lycoming powerplant and is distinguishable by its three-blade, constant-speed propeller. Instructor and pupil sit side-by-side and, with a full fuel load, training flights of up to three hours duration can be achieved.

Both models are fully aerobatic. The DEFTS is a civilian unit on contract to the UK Ministry of Defence. Employing mostly civilian instructors, the School uses the T67M Mk2 for initial grading of Royal Navy and Army pilots, a task formerly performed by the De Havilland Chipmunk, and the T67M 260 for the elementary flying training of pilots for the Royal Navy and the Army.

Quick Facts

Entered Service : 1995.

Powerplant : Textron Lycoming AEIO-320-D1B flat four piston engine of 160hp

Span : 34ft 9in (10.59m)

Length : 24 ft 0.25 in (7.32m)

Max Speed : 207 mph (333 kmh)

Accommodation : Two pilots seats side-by-side

Recognition : The long thin wing with its square cut tips is a reminder of the powered glider heritage of the Firefly design. The fuselage is long and tapering, with a very square cut fin and tailplane, both of which have swept leading edges. The bulged, rounded cockpit canopy is prominent, as is the short, sturdy tricycle undercarriage.

Colours : All-over yellow with civilian registrations.

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Firefly

Quick Facts

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