Making The Fastest and Longest-Ranged Aircraft In A Garage

Future of Kit Building

The team behind DarkAero, Inc is currently developing the DarkAero 1, the fastest, longest-range aircraft that can be built in a garage.

To do this, they had to pick out the most advanced piston engine and design an airframe around it using the lightest yet strongest materials available.

The DarkAero 1 is powered by the electronically-controlled UL Power UL521iS and has a rated power output of 200 horsepower. Meanwhile, their unique structural approach they call “Hollow Grid” helps the skin maintain its shape and prevent buckling. 

This, combined with its lightweight design, would enable the aircraft to have a projected cruise speed of 275 mph and a rate of climb of 2,500 ft per minute.

For what it’s worth, it does look promising. Hopefully, the team can fulfill its promise when the time comes.