The development of the Ranger R7 started in about 2013. By February 2018, two prototypes were flying and four production aircraft were under construction for April 2018 delivery.[1]
The aircraft is an all-metal monocoque design and features a cantilever high-wing, two-seats-in-side-by-side configuration enclosed cabin, fixed tricycle landing gear with a castering nosewheel, and a single engine in tractor configuration. The aircraft is made from pre-painted sheet 6061-T6 aluminum to save construction time. The seats fold flat to allow sleeping in the cabin when camping.[1]
The company manufactures the majority of parts itself to reduce costs and shorten the supply chain.[1]
By January 2018, the design had been accepted by the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a light-sport aircraft.[2]
By May 2017, one example had been registered in the United States with the FAA.[3]
In a review of the design on AVweb, writer Paul Bertorelli indicated that the aircraft suffers from a low useful load of 4380NaN0 due to the choice of the old-technology Continental O-200D engine, which is at least 500NaN0 heavier than other newer engines.[4]
By April 2019, 12 production aircraft had been delivered to customers, which included individuals and flight schools.[5] By August 2021, 50 aircraft had been delivered;[6] by November 2021, 66 had been delivered.[7]
Base model powered by a 1000NaN0 Continental O-200-D four-stroke, air-cooled powerplant and fitted with a Dynon SkyView Touch glass cockpit avionics system. No longer in production.
Intermediate model powered by a 1000NaN0 Continental O-200-D four-stroke, air-cooled powerplant and fitted with a 10" Dynon SkyView HDX glass cockpit avionics system, additional exterior options are also available. This variant is now the base model aircraft available.[8]
Premium model powered by a 1000NaN0 Continental O-200-D four-stroke, air-cooled powerplant and fitted with dual 10" Dynon SkyView HDX glass cockpit avionics system, additional exterior options are also available.
IFR Capable model powered by a 1000NaN0 Continental O-200-D four-stroke, air-cooled powerplant and fitted with dual 10" Dynon SkyView HDX glass cockpit avionics system as well a Garmin GTN 650Xi (GPS/MFD/COM/NAV), additional exterior options are also available.