Pegasus Quantum 15
The Pegasus Quantum 15 is a two-seat, weight-shift control microlight (also known as a trike) designed for recreational flying, cross-country adventures, and pilot training. Manufactured by Pegasus Aviation, this flexible-wing microlight has earned a strong reputation for its reliability, stability, and ease of handling. The Quantum 15 is well-suited for both beginners and experienced pilots, offering an exceptional flying experience in a lightweight and cost-effective package.
Its durable airframe, powerful engine options, and responsive wing make it capable of handling a wide range of weather conditions while ensuring pilot safety. Its open cockpit layout and panoramic views add to the thrill of flying, making it a popular choice among adventure seekers and flying schools worldwide.
Description
The Pegasus Quantum 15 features a robust trike-style airframe made of lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy. Its wing is constructed with advanced synthetic materials, ensuring strength, flexibility, and resistance to weathering. The weight-shift control system uses a control bar attached to the wing, allowing the pilot to steer by shifting body weight—a hallmark of microlight flying.
The two-seat tandem cockpit includes a comfortable pilot seat and a passenger seat with ample legroom. An enclosed pod fairing provides some wind protection while enhancing aerodynamics. The instrument panel includes standard flight instruments, GPS options, and engine monitoring gauges.
Powered by a reliable Rotax engine, the Quantum 15 has a strong power-to-weight ratio, allowing for quick takeoffs and a steady rate of climb. Its wing design ensures stable flight characteristics, even at low speeds, making it forgiving and easy to handle during takeoff and landing.
Specifications
General Specifications | Details |
---|---|
Manufacturer | Pegasus Aviation |
Role | Recreational, Cross-Country, Training |
Seating Capacity | 2 (Pilot and Passenger, Tandem) |
Length | 11 ft 8 in (3.56 m) |
Wingspan (Wing Width) | 34 ft 5 in (10.5 m) |
Height | 10 ft 4 in (3.15 m) |
Wing Area | 165 sq ft (15.3 m²) |
Empty Weight | 386 lbs (175 kg) |
Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | 992 lbs (450 kg) |
Engine Options | Rotax 582 (65 hp) |
Fuel Capacity | 15 gallons (57 liters) |
Range | 300 nautical miles (555 km) |
Cruise Speed | 55–65 knots (63–75 mph / 100–120 km/h) |
Maximum Speed | 75 knots (86 mph / 138 km/h) |
Stall Speed | 30 knots (35 mph / 56 km/h) |
Rate of Climb | 1,200 ft/min (366 m/min) |
Service Ceiling | 10,000 ft (3,048 m) |
Takeoff Distance (50 ft obstacle) | 350 ft (107 m) |
Landing Distance (50 ft obstacle) | 400 ft (122 m) |
Performance
The Pegasus Quantum 15 delivers exceptional performance for its class, offering smooth and responsive control in flight. Its Rotax 582 engine provides reliable power, allowing for brisk takeoffs and a climb rate of up to 1,200 feet per minute. The weight-shift control system is intuitive and responsive, making the Quantum 15 easy to maneuver and fun to fly.
Its wing design ensures excellent stability and a forgiving stall speed of just 30 knots, making it accessible even for less experienced pilots. The trike’s robust frame can handle rough-field operations, while its short takeoff and landing distances make it ideal for small airstrips and off-field landings.
20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) with Explanations
- What is the Pegasus Quantum 15?
It is a weight-shift control microlight aircraft designed for recreational flying, adventure trips, and flight training. - How many people can it carry?
It can carry two people—one pilot and one passenger seated in tandem. - What type of engine powers the Quantum 15?
It uses a Rotax 582 engine, a liquid-cooled two-stroke engine producing 65 horsepower. - What is a microlight or trike aircraft?
A microlight is a lightweight, small aircraft that operates under simplified regulations. A trike uses a weight-shift control system for steering. - How does weight-shift control work?
Pilots move a control bar connected to the wing to shift the aircraft’s center of gravity, enabling directional changes. - Is the Quantum 15 suitable for beginners?
Yes, its forgiving flight characteristics and stable design make it ideal for student pilots and beginners. - What is its maximum takeoff weight?
The Quantum 15 has a maximum takeoff weight of 992 lbs (450 kg), including fuel, passengers, and cargo. - What is its cruise speed?
The average cruise speed is 55-65 knots (100-120 km/h), suitable for cross-country flying. - How far can it fly on a full tank?
With a fuel capacity of 15 gallons (57 liters), its range is about 300 nautical miles (555 km). - What is its service ceiling?
The Quantum 15 can fly up to 10,000 feet (3,048 meters). - Can it perform aerobatics?
No, the Quantum 15 is designed for stable, recreational flying—not for aerobatic maneuvers. - What type of landing gear does it have?
It has tricycle landing gear with large, rugged tires suitable for grass or dirt runways. - Is it safe to fly in windy conditions?
The Quantum 15 is stable in moderate wind conditions but is best flown in calm or mild weather for maximum safety. - How long does it take to learn to fly?
Most pilots can become proficient with 20-30 hours of flight training, depending on their skills. - What kind of license do I need to fly it?
In most countries, a microlight pilot’s license or sport pilot certificate is required. - How do you transport the Quantum 15?
Its wing can be detached, allowing the trike to be transported on a trailer. - Is it difficult to maintain?
Maintenance is straightforward, with regular inspections of the engine, wing fabric, and control systems. - Can it fly at night?
No, the Quantum 15 is not certified for night flying. It operates under visual flight rules (VFR). - Is it suitable for long-distance travel?
Yes, with its fuel-efficient engine and 300 nm range, it is great for long-distance flights. - How much does it cost?
Prices vary depending on new or used models, typically ranging from $15,000 to $40,000 USD.
The Pegasus Quantum 15 offers an exciting and accessible way to experience powered flight. Its user-friendly design, performance capabilities, and safety features make it a top choice for adventure pilots and flight schools worldwide.