Explorer Aircraft has announced the introduction of a family of three single engine and turboprop aircraft to perform a wide range of utility roles. The Explorer 350R, 500R and 750T are said to bridge the gap between ageing six-seat aircraft and larger turboprop aircraft. The aircraft are designed to be used in both civil and military applications, including passenger and cargo services, sightseeing and surveillance flights, ambulance and medevac services and remote area operations. \rWide doors and a roomy interior are intended to make the Explorer ideal for loading cargo and for special applications such as aerial photography, search and rescue, low level geophysical surveys, coastal and electronic surveillance, parachuting and supply dropping.\rThe eight to sixteen passenger light aircraft were designed in Perth, Western Australia, by the aeronautical engineering design house Aeronautical Engineers Australia, together with American aerodynamicist John Roncz. A carbon fibre construction has been used for the fuselage shell with the remainder of the primary structure constructed of high-grade aluminium alloy.\rThe Explorer 350R is a flying prototype. Explorer Aircraft Inc plans include certification to commence early in the year 2000. The Explorer 350R, 500R and 750T will be available for purchase in the near future. Anyone interested in learning more about the aircraft can e-mail grahamswannell@exploreraircraft. com or visit the web site at www.exploreraircraft.com.