MONNETT “SONERAI II”€

Plane & Pilot
Verified
Edited By: Omar Filipović
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sonerai II is a tandem-seated aircraft developed by John Monnett as a larger, more powerful evolution of his original VW-powered Sonerai.
  • It is powered by a 65-70 hp Volkswagen engine, achieving a cruise speed of 140 mph and a range of 420 miles.
  • Key features include a bubble canopy, and it is stressed for aerobatics when flown by the pilot alone.
  • The Sonerai II is currently manufactured by Great Plains Aircraft, Inc.
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STANDARD DATA: Gross wt. 925. Empty wt. 506. Fuel capacity 10. Wingspan 18’8″. Length 18’10”. Engine 65- to 70-hp Volkswagen.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 165. Cruise mph 140. Stall mph 45. Climb rate 750. Takeoff run 900. Landing roll 500. Range 420.

After enjoying success with his original VW-powered Sonerai, John Monnett decided to develop the Sonerai II, a tandem-seated version. Both pilot and passenger sit under a bubble canopy that is hinged on the right side. The Sonerai II differs mainly by being slightly larger, making use of a somewhat more powerful engine, and by being stressed for aerobatics when flown by the pilot alone. The Sonerai II is now manufactured by Great Plains Aircraft, Inc.

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