Lesson plan

Avtek 400A

The Avtek 400A is an American prototype turboprop-powered business aircraft, which was developed in the early 1980s. Its configuration was unusual and distinctive : a low-wing monoplane with two pusher engines mounted above the wings, and a large canard mounted atop the forward fuselage. The aircraft's sleek, futuristic design earned it a guest appearance on the Airwolf TV series as the X-400, which was used by the villain, Lou Stappleford in the Eagles episode. The Avtek's structure made extensive use of advanced composite materials throughout. In 1998, Avtek declared bankruptcy without the prototype having completed the testing required for US FAA type certification. The company's assets were purchased by AvtekAir, who planned to revive the project under the designation AvtekAir 9000T. The only Avtek 400A constructed is currently owned by Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, who are currently restoring the aircraft.

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Article summary

The Avtek 400A is an American prototype turboprop-powered business aircraft, which was developed in the early 1980s. Its configuration was unusual and distinctive : a low-wing monoplane with two pusher engines mounted above the wings, and a large canard mounted atop the forward fuselage. The aircraft's sleek, futuristic design earned it a guest appearance on the Airwolf TV series as the X-400, which was used by the villain, Lou Stappleford in the Eagles episode. The Avtek's structure made extensive use of advanced composite materials throughout. In 1998, Avtek declared bankruptcy without the prototype having completed the testing required for US FAA type certification. The company's assets were purchased by AvtekAir, who planned to revive the project under the designation AvtekAir 9000T. The only Avtek 400A constructed is currently owned by Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, who are currently restoring the aircraft.

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  3. If two sources disagreed about one of these facts, what would you need in order to trust one over the other?

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