Get to Know the Shark

aBOUT sHARK 600

When it comes to performance, the Shark 600 is no slouch! In 2015, a new FAI world speed record was set by Eric de Barbarin-Barbarini, who clocked in at 303 kph (163.6 kts). This record was set with a Rotax 912 ULS 100hp naturally aspirated engine, and without some of the more recent aerodynamic refinements which have since been incorporated into the airframe.

Likewise, the Shark 600 dominates the category in range. On July 5th 2023, Jiří Pruša and Eliška Kudějová set a new FAI record for range, flying almost 10.5 hours and 1033 nautical miles (1188 Statute miles) on a closed course over Czechia, Germany, Poland, and Slovakia.

These incredible feats are no small part of the decision made by both Zara Rutherford, and a year later her younger brother Mack Rutherford to circumnavigate the globe in the Shark 600.

PERFORMANCE Features

SPEEDS

Never exceed speed VNE     180 kts

Max. cruising speed VH     157 kts

Economy cruising speed    135 kts

Stall speed, clean    43 kts

Stall speed, full flaps    35 kts

Max. climb rate    1475 ft/min

RANGE AND CONSUMPTION*

Max. range in long range cruise     1350 nm

Fuel consumption in long range cruise     3.5 gph

Max. range in fast cruise     1036 nm

Fuel consumption in fast cruise     5.5 gph

*for 150 L fuel tanks

Load factor

Maximum Positive     + 4 g

Maximum Negative     – 2 g

Operating temperature

Minimum     -25 °C

Maximum     +50 °C

Weights

Empty weight (basic operating weight)**     750 lbs

Max. take-off weight (MTOW)     1323 lbs

** Including ballistic recovery system – parachute

Shark Factory

The Shark factory is located in Europe in the country of Slovakia. The Region is well known for producing some of the highest quality and innovative designs in the world. Shark Aero s.r.o. has a long history in the industry producing composite structures for Diamond Aircraft. Their manufacturing expertise and production capabilities were an instrumental part of how the Shark 600 became one of the top performing and safest sport aircraft in the world. Using tried and true methods, the factory manufactures the entire airframe in house, including welded components like landing gear and engine mounts. Only very specific parts like avionics, engines, and propellors are produced outside the Shark factory.

One of the most innovative features of the Shark 600 is in the design and use of 3D printed parts in non-critical areas. The factory has made good use of this technology to facilitate and streamline production in areas that would be cost prohibitive or time consuming. Some great examples of visible parts are the stick and throttle.

Shark welcomes pre-arranged visits to the factory, especially for new owners who would like a factory check ride. Visitors can fly into Vienna, rent a car and drive about one and a half hours to Senica where the factory is located. The staff are very happy to provide you with a tour while you fly your new plane and enjoy the stunning local countryside. Check out the factory video tour for a look at how the Shark is hand-built with precision and the highest quality standards.

PERFORMANCE AND SPECIFICATIONS

Take-off ground roll, sea level [flaps 20°]    360 ft

Take-off distance to clear 50 ft obstacle, sea level [flaps 20°]   689 ft

Landing ground roll, sea level [flaps 30°]    492 ft

Landing distance to clear 50 ft obstacle, sea level [flaps 30°]    950 ft

  1. In flight adjustable propeller
  2. Ballistic recovery system – parachute
  3. Dynon Skyview or Garmin G3X flight deck
  4. Tandem seating
  5. Retractable landing gear
  6. Optimized wing profile
  7. Cargo doors
  8. Kevlar reinforced carbon fibre monocoque cockpit

GALLERY

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