French firm expects to obtain supplemental type certification for modification in 2027.
Toulouse-based Kepplair Evolution will shortly begin the conversion of an ATR 72 twin-turboprop into a new water-bomber as it targets supplemental type certification (STC) for the development next year.
Kepplair took delivery of the ATR 72 last month and has since completed two test flights to compile baseline performance data.
It will now be laid up for the modification work, which will see the installation of Kepplair’s KEDS aerial delivery system, developed in partnership with the Toulouse Institute of Fluid Mechanics (IMFT) and Texas firm Trotter Controls.
Conversion and certification activities will be carried out by Toulouse Blagnac company Aerotec & Concept.
In-flight drop tests of the KEDS equipment are scheduled to begin in January, building on rig trials carried out in the IMFT’s facilities.
The company expects to obtain an STC for the modification next year, with service entry for the Kepplair 72 also foreseen in 2027.
To date, Kepplair has raised €17.5 million ($20.3 million) through two funding rounds, while a third is now in progress.
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