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Nando Groppo -- Trail
Nando Groppo is a European company in business for several years with more than one model flying. In this video we look at the Trail, a tandem-seating, aluminum, fabric-covered tail dragger. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Trail is a very simple and easy wing folding arrangement that can be done quickly by a single person without disconnecting any linkages. U.S. representatives expect to price the Trail modestly in the $85-90,000 range after they gain SLSA approval. A kit will also be offered.
Tecnam has no less than five SLSA models, the most of any producer, now that they added their handsome P2008 to the fleet. Bravo is their high wing cantilevered version and it's a favorite among many for its enormous view, a full 360 degrees of vision and no struts to block the scenery. Bravo flies with the usual Tecnam natural feel and cruises toward the upper end of the LSA spectrum. In this video we'll show you around inside and out.
A new entry in the Light-Sport Aircraft space making its American public debut at the Sebring LSA Expo in 2011 is the DirectFly Alto 100 represented in the USA by Corbi Air. This all-metal low wing with the forward sliding canopy has been tailored specifically to the U.S. market, fitted with many American components to make maintenance easier, faster, and less costly.
All the way from Brazil comes a sharp little airplane called the Quasar, which will remind some visitors of an earlier American design of a similar name. Designers are creating carbon surfaces to replace dope & fabric coverings and will then complete their SLSA approval. Powered by the HKS four-stroke engine, Quasar Lite feels like a sports car.
New engines come along rarely and even more rarely are accepted by the marketplace. One that has garnered early positive feedback is the UL Engine. Available in different sizes, it also offers different displacements and varying compression to delivery a variety of horsepower ratings. A modern engine the UL Power series even come with FADEC or Full Authority Digital Engine Control. As of fall 2011, some 300 engines have been delivered; 30 in the USA.
Germany's Fk Lightplanes is an unusually versatile supplier of Light-Sport Aircraft. This well established producer has a high wing (the Fk9), a low wing (the Fk14, with another one in development) and a biplane. The latter, called the Fk12 Comet is the focus of this video and the model has just landed on American shores. Get updated on the plans of importer Hansen Air Group as we speak with Mitch Hansen about a biplane available in various configurations.
The first airplane to sell at Sebring 2010 was this Breezer II. What a fitting way to start off the new U.S. import and distribution operation handled by industry veteran Mike Zidziunas (everyone calls him "Mike Z"). Breezer is an German-built, all-metal SLSA that flies beautifully and has a new cockpit interior. Breezer Aircraft USA -- not the web name as mistakenly stated in the video -- will be based at Plant City, Florida, near the home of Sun 'n Fun.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one on the Van's Aircraft RV-12. Most LSA are factory built SLSA but here is the clear-and-away winner of te Experimental LSA race of kit-assembled Light-Sports. More than 350 of the RV-12 kits have reportedly been sold and many are flying. Here we take a quick look at the RV-12 and place it in the family of RV models that have proven so popular.
If you are a conventional general aviation pilot used to Cessna aircraft, you'll probably love the Paradise P1. It looks somewhat similar, has room to carry bulky items and flies like most pilots expect. Paradise's P1 is one of only a few Light-Sport Aircraft that use a yoke for primary control, but that will be familiar to legions of GA-trained pilots.
See the German-made Breezer sold by Sportsplanes.com. This all-metal Light-Sport Aircraft has already evolved into the Breezer II and is one pleasant flying machine you might like. General aviation pilots will like some of the new features of this second version.
If you've tried flying with floats (or in a boat-hulled aircraft) you already know the appeal. Those who haven't should check out the experience. You can do that at Airtime Aviation in Tulsa Oklahoma where the CTLS Floatplane has been developed; proprietors Tom Gutmann Sr. and Jr. offer seaplane instruction and sign-offs. Amphibious floats are fabricated by Claymar of Canada.
Kolb Aircraft is one of the most successful of light aircraft or ultralights among all companies. Now under stable new ownership and management, the much-loved brand is ready for a revival following the economic downturn of the mid-2000s. To hear the latest, we spoke with Brian Milborn at Sun 'n Fun 2011 at the company's display in Paradise City.
And now for something completely different -- For the first time in our 200+ videos we take you on a tour of the 2012 Midwest LSA Expo and cover every single aircraft on display... not just a few highlights, but every airplane. We cover all the LSA plus some kits and ultralights. Each aircraft segment is short, just 2-3 minutes, but here's a way to see it all in 1.5 hours of watching we hope you'll like. Later, we'll offer each aircraft video separately to make finding the ones you want easier. TRT: 90 minutes
With Special Light-Sport Aircraft #1 from the biggest general aviation producer, Cessna showed off Rose Pelton's very own aircraft that she flew to Sebring from Wichita. The wife of company CEO, Jack, this is Rose's own airplane and she was kind enough to let us show you around it. Jump inside with us as we show you around the 1,000+ selling Skycatcher.
Tomark Aero's Viper SD-4 is a handsome all-metal low wing with a wide, distinctively-appointed cockpit. The new entry features conventional lines and familiar construction materials. Viper's back-swinging canopy brings huge visibility and the cockpit appears to be focused on comfortable cross country flying. Tomark uses CAD design and CNC precision cutting methods to make this well finished LSA. US distribution is handled by Tomark Aero USA, located in Frisco, TX.
The Direct Fly Alto 100 sold by Corbi Air has something different and very cool installed. In this case, "very cool" means literally air conditioning, the first ever system for a Light-Sport Aircraft. Another video reviews the airplane; here we examine the Alto 100 with the Corbi air condition system aboard. This is offered for any LSA brand.
Made in the USA, the IndUS Thorpedo is a storied American design (hint: the 1950s version was the predecessor to the Piper Cherokee). Now the Texas company builds it with the potent 120-hp Jabiru 3300 to make it a performer designer John Thorp never envisioned. This all-metal design has the mmost interesting wing structure among SLSA.
(Part 1 of 2) - At Sebring 2010, UltralightNews and Dan Johnson take you on a golf cart Fast Tour of the airplanes on display at the show. With each, we provide some teaser information and offer their website address for you to follow further. Alternatively, you can read more about all these aircraft right here on ByDanJohnson.com, and the odds are we have a video on each of these aircraft as well. All for free... enjoy!
We have looked at the Revo trike before and I've come to love this handsome hotrod weight shift LSA. Yet developer Larry Mednick keeps on changing this aircraft, so much so that we have to keep taking another look. At Sebring 2013, we spoke with Larry to hear about the newest refinements to this deluxe rig that may be the most evolved trike in the world (not to say some others aren't great, but few update and upgrade as often as Evolution).
Evektor, the first ever Light-Sport Aircraft has been busy updating their Sportstar for years. In 2011 they brought their Harmony LSA to America with even more changes. This time the wing shape went from rectangular "Hershey Bar" shape to a tapered tip along with many other changes. Co-importer Art Tarola helps us understand all the differences.
Mark Bierle is one of the most talented designers I have ever met. The modest, soft-spoken Californian makes a line of the best-flying and genuinely light aircraft in the USA. He's also worked in powerplant design and has now turned his agile mind toward electric power. We talk with him at some length about the advantages of electric-powered light aircraft and what Mark expects for the future.
This video is a bit longer (21 min.) than our usual fare and it's a bit different in that we are not reviewing an aircraft. In this case, you can hear a most compelling story of a man and his daughter who were literally saved by the use of his BRS parachute in his Cirrus SR22. You rarely get to hear one of these experiences explained so well. After he lost his engine over the ocean the pilot deployed his parachute. Listen closely and learn!
One of the simpler yet distinctive airplanes in the LSA category is the Rainbow Aircraft Cheetah XLS, which won SLSA approval in September 2009. Manufacturered in South Africa, Cheetah is sold in the USA by Midwest Sport Aviation of Wisconsin. The lightweight LSA offers eye-catching styling and unique features like fold-down armrests with a throttle handle at the end.
At the 2010 Midwest LSA Expo we did something new. We picked several aircraft of a similar description and pointed out their similarities and differences. This time we look at four all-metal high wing LSA: Rans Aircraft S-19 Venterra; Evektor Sportstar Max IFR, Van's Aircraft RV-12, and the Breezer Aircraft Breezer II. If you're searching for a high wing LSA, this video may help show your choices and help you make a purchase decision.
We talked with Roger Dubbert about the whole line of Zenith aircraft, including the CH-701 STOL in kit form, the larger CH-750 in SLSA or kit, and the low wing CH-650. But we also looked at the UL engine that the Zenith folks fitted to their CH-650 design. See more about the engine HERE but listento Roger describe how Zenith regards this new entry.
A vintage ultralight from the 1980s, the Lazair, returns in the hands of original designer, Dale Kramer, who has now removed the two small gasoline engines and replaced them with electric motors and batteries. Our video provides the details of how Kramer reformed his design and how crowds at AirVenture 2011 responded to the surprise debut.
Pipistrel is a European producer of a family of airplanes with very smooth lines and handsome shapes. Winner of the NASA efficiency flight prize a few years ago, we have a look at the Virus (pronounced "veer-us") that won a big check but our review can significantly apply to the Sinus ("seen-us") motorglider. And the company also offers the Taurus, a powered sailplane... all are remarkably sleek birds in the LSA space.
The Ibis Magic is one we looked at earlier, when it had just come into the USA for the first time. By Sun 'n Fun 2011, the folks at Apollo Aircraft USA had finished the assembly and were well through the pursuit of Special Light-Sport Aircraft approval. In this video we spoke with Phil Mednick (of Apollo Fox fame) and he showed us around the impressively equipped Ibis (EYE-bis) Magic, designed in Columbia.
This video is not about a single aircraft but about the entire fleet of Light-Sport Aircraft... and the business organization that supports the producers of such aircraft. In this presentation, UltralightNews interviews Dan Johnson, the president and chairman of the board for LAMA. Click obtain more information to get further details including membership.
Another entry from the Czech Republic is the S-Wing from a company of a similar name. S-Wing USA is the American representative and we looked over their exhibit airplane at Sun 'n Fun 2010. A newer design with 40 flying, mostly in Europe with a couple presently in the USA and more en route. Come inside with us to what may be the widest cockpit in Light-Sport aviation... a whopping 52 inches.
We have almost exclusively two place entries in the Light-Sport Aircraft space. And indeed, the SD-1 Minisport is not presently (in 2013) a LSA officially. For now it's sold as an Experimental Amateur Built aircraft. What sets this cute little apart from dozens of others is that this is a single place aircraft. On this video we spoke with Tyler Ives, the U.S. importer of this Czech airplane and he tells us what you want to know.
How about a deluxe, ready-to-fly Special Light-Sport Aircraft that can carry more than 700 pounds of payload, climb at 700-1,200 feet per minute, yet sell for less than $40,000? (Seriously, the one in this video remarkably lists for $38,000!) Though some pilots may wonder if a powered parachute is for them, my experience says they are superb viewing platforms and when they are built this beautifully, you simply have to reconsider.
One of the biggest splashes - literally and figuratively - in the Light-Sport Aircraft industry was the entry of California's Icon A5. The super sleek LSA design is new nose to tail, wingtip to wingtip. In fact, no one ever saw anything quite like the A5. Mainstream media has fallen in love with the distinctive design. Join us for our LSA Insider view.
Light-Sport Aircraft may only be used commercially in two ways: for paid flight instruction and aircraft rentals. However, if a LSA is bought by a municipality, the U.S. government, or the military, it may be called a "Public Use Aircraft," and is then exempt from FAA's prohibition of other commercial use. The Tecnam in this video is fitted with a reasonably low cost, quickly attached camera system that might be used by law enforcement officials. Watch too see how the gear works.
The leading seller of Light-Sport Aircraft is Flight Design and CTLS is their third-generation of the popular CT series. Not only geared to American pilot interest, CTLS added many new features including a more spacious cabin with greater visibility (though it was already huge). CTLS comes standard with a full glass panel, ballistic parachute and more.
The biggest kit-aircraft builder of them all - Van's Aircraft and their incredibly line of RV airplanes - entered the Light-Sport Aircraft arena with their RV-12. Here we take a look at the kit and its costs while designer Dick VanGrunsven sits on the wing nearby talking to customers. No surprise to anyone, Van's is the biggest success story in Experimental Light-Sport Aircraft or ELSA.
We cover the Top-20 LSA in the USA and more in this video adaptation of Jim Lawrence's article appearing in the LSA-friendly Plane & Pilot magazine. Join us as we run through all the top-selling models as well as highlighting some up and comers. Thanks to Jim and P&P for allowing us to use their work. We'll show you video on most models to accent the narrative. Also see our 2012 Market Share article. -- TRT: 46 minutes
Lots of folks saw a vaguely familiar airplane at the Midwest LSA Expo 2010... but, like myself, we looked and looked again and couldn't quite place the airplane. It turns out what fooled all of us initially was the installation of a 120-hp Jabiru 3300 under a new more aggressive cowling. Flying this airplane at the event, I came away a believer. I've always loved the S-19 (like most Rans models) and with this smooth-running powerplant, I found even more to enjoy. Come hear more details in our video.
Here's another SLSA that looks so small, you'd think it might be cramped inside. But it isn't and it flies very comfortably as well. The brand comes from Poland but is sold in the USA from Niagra Falls, New York. The composite airplane was well received at the Sun 'n Fun 2009 LSA Mall.
Perhaps it's to be expected that the leading seller of Light-Sport Aircraft in the USA has now entered the public service aviation market with their CTLE, the "LE" standing for Law Enforcement. This specially fitted LSA has a high-tech wing mounted camera system that is controlled from the right seat where a Tactical Flight Officer sits. He can send and receive with ground units. CTLE is leading the way to a promising new market for Light-Sport Aircraft.
Comco Ikarus has a long history in Europe dating to the early 1990s. The company believes it is the largest supplier of flight school aircraft in Europe's largest economy, Germany. Their current development is a higher gross weight edition of the composite exterior C42. New U.S. representation could reignite sales of this sweet-flying, light-weight LSA.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one on the new SAB Vulcan 100. Here is a fresh entry to the SLSA space, #127 on our popular SLSA List. We don't often see brand new entries away from the big airshows but here's one. Expected pricing on this all-metal aircraft is about $125,000. though kits may follow later. Hear more on this video.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one is one of the newest in the LSA fleet. This is Pipistrel's Alpha Trainer and it has already seen market success in the USA and around the world, thanks significantly to its excellent price: $85,000 (in 2012 and before expenses like shipping and FAA registration). Simple, yes, but Alpha has all a recreational pilot might want.
Meet the boss ... of the season-opening Sun 'n Fun airshow, John "Lites" Leehouts along with longtime Paradise City chairman, Dave Piper. These two men made the "new and improved" Paradise City area -- formerly the Ultralight Area and subsequently the Light Plane Area -- a major hit at the 2013 Sun 'n Fun airshow. Lites took a flight in a ultralight-like Light-Sport Aircraft and describes his enthusiasm for the new area. Hear it all on this video
We've known the SeaRey for more than 20 years (the design began in 1991) but now it is available as a fully manufactured SLSA. More than 500 are flying but all were built as kits; now those who don't relish that task can buy and fly. We speak with CEO Adam Yang and designer Kerry Richter at the Sebring LSA Expo to hear more of the details.
The Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo, or the affectionate short hand "Sebring LSA Expo," or even more simply "Sebring," is THE show for Light-Sport Aircraft. It was the best ever in 2012... how good you say? Watch this video and find out plus hear about plans for the 9th Annual event in 2013. We speak with new show director Jana Filip who will provide the details and forecast.
In this video shot in September 2011, LAMA president Dan Johnson discusses the ASTM certification used to certify Light-Sport Aircraft. Specially, the industry organization is encouraging manufacturers to show evidence of their annual internal audit to openly demonstrate that not only are LSA fun and worthy aircraft but they meet a high level of quality. The subject is a little dry but very important.
If you love long, shapely wings, here's an airplane to warm your heart. But it's more than an LSA airplane... in fact, it's a motorglider and a most impressive one at that. For soaring enthusiasts Phoenix is one of the most attractive choices among all Light-Sport Aircraft. But it can cruise fast and long while providing a huge safety measure of a very long glide in the unlikely event her engine should fail. See standard multiple wings and more in our video presentation of Phoenix.
Terrafugia -- a name that means escape from Earth -- is the creator of the "roadable airplane" called Transition. The New England company has attracted wide media attention for its unique effort in the LSA space. With a growing order book, Anna Dietrick helps us learn where the project stands as of AirVenture 2011. Come have a look.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one on the Aerotrek A240. We'll also consider the A220, the taildragger. Both these two Light-Sport Aircraft are selling well and no wonder. They have an excellent price (around $80,000 in 2012) yet they are made very well with quality evident with a close inspection. Join us for a few details.
Powrachute is one of the largest producers of powered parachutes, with more than 1,500 aircraft flying. They make a line of one and two seaters, some loaded with accessories and features and some simpler but with agreeably-low price tags. Powrachute also offers Part 103 version with two engine choices.
Tecnam has many fetching models, no less than five of which have earned Special LSA approval. To that seemingly ever growing fleet the big Italian manufacturer now adds the Tail Dragger, dressed up in full retro look. At Sun 'n Fun 2012 we got a first look at the new model and are given the details by Phil Solomon, CEO of Tecnam North America.
Renegade LSA -- Lil' Rascal project
US Aviation -- Denton Texas LSA-friendly FBO
American Legend -- Legends in Flight Schools (2013)
As we spoke with Doc' Bailey at Sun 'n Fun 2013, we first hear about his new 71,000 square foot hangar at Fort Pierce airport. Then we focus on a new project from this ambitious company. The Lil' Rascal is based on the Pitts S1C but will be fully redone with extensive use of carbon fiber to make a LSA-capable aerobatic aircraft powered by the Lycoming AEIO-233 engine that permits such flight. Here more about their plans for the sporty bird.
In this video shot at the Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo 2012, we speak with Scott Severen of US Aviation. Based in Dallas, Texas US Aviation is one of the fastest growing fixed base operators in the USA and thanks to Scott, they have a sharp focus on Light-Sport Aircraft with an entire facility dedicated to providing factory-authorized service for many leading LSA brands. Scott is a longtime player in light aviation with a multifaceted background.
On our mission to debunk the idea that Light-Sport Aircraft will not hold up to flight instructional use, we spoke with Darin Hart of American Legend. He tells us of some impressive results from American Legend models being used in flight schools, including one with more than 20,000 landings on it while performing tailwheel instructions. This airplane has more than 2,000 hours and Darin relates that few parts have been replaced. Hear all the details.
Vertical Power -- Electronic Circuit Breaker (and more!)
At AirVenture 2012, we got the chance to speak with Tine Tomascik, one of the expert design team from Pipistrel. Tine provides us with the company's thoughts about their newly-introduced trainer the Alpha, which was warmly embraced by visitors to their Oshkosh exhibit. Pipistrel is already active selling this sweetly-priced Light-Sport Aircraft in other countries. Watch and hear why.
As a company Tecnam has several distinctions: they are one of the oldest light airplane producers, dating to 1948; they have more models of SLSA than any other company; and the Italian company has one of the broadest lines. Here we look at their sliding-canopy, low-wing Sierra P2002, a model with a great following around the world.
Vertical Power makes electronic circuit breakers. Unsure what that means? Don't feel alone, but join us with this video and learn what we learned. After hearing more about the ECB -- which is more impressive than you think -- we'll move on to the VP 400 "Runway Seeker." Now, this is something you might want in your LSA or homebuilt aircraft. If the stuff hits the fan, one simple button can make everything lots better. Still unsure? Well... watch this video and you can learn stuff you should know.
Americans have formerly seen the Colyaer Freedom S100 amphibian Light-Sport Aircraft. The long-winged seaplane disappeared from the market after the first U.S. distributor left the business. Now with new representation that we'll meet, Freedom will call the Lakeland airport home along with the Sun 'n Fun organization. Spanish owner, Santi, will help us understand the Freedom better and we'll hear more about their plans.
Ed Fisher, proprietor and principal designer of Raceair, has created several intriguing yet highly affordable designs. Here we speak with Ed about his Skylite (which can be bought as a complete kit for less than $10,000 and ready-to-fly, test flown for $20,000, in 2012 dollars) plus his Lil' Bitts, a lightweight and more user-friendly version of the famous Pitts Special.
Bill Canino has imported the TL Ultralights line of Light-Sport Aircraft for many years. The first of their modern line is the Sting and its a series of models that have evolved steadily. In this video we speak with Bill and hear more about this very handsome S4 Sting, which has enjoyed regular innovations. The company also makes the TL-3000 Sirius high wing all composite and Bill's company SportairUSA sells an entire line of LSA.
An aircraft that grabbed everyone's attention at AirVenture 2012 was the new Highlander Superstol from the South Carolina company. Here's a video you want to watch as we show touchdown after touchdown to show just how that marvelous gear with the 20-inch range (measured at the spindle). In flight footage also shows the automatic slats in operation and our interview of Troy Woodland will tell you how they did it all. You'll enjoy this one!
Without changing the model designation -- it's always been the Sportstar -- Evektor has steadily evolved their all-metal low-wing aircraft. The model was the #1 aircraft to win SLSA approval, a distinction it retains forever, yet it changed to address customer interests. In this video we review some of the changes to the Max version, with its much-smoother exterior; see our other Sportstar videos for more info.
Our first "performance tandem" joins a fleet of seven other tandems in the LSA space, but this One is meant to get up and be gone... in a hurry. Slim in frontal area and powered by the mightiest of ASTM-certified engines -- the 120-hp Jabiru 3300 -- MS One ought to hit the 120-knot limit of Light-Sport Aircraft. Designed and built in the USA near Daytona Beach, Florida, MySky expects first shipments in November 2010.
Gobosh is an all-American company that imports European aircraft but U.S.-based managers have carefully reconfigured the G700S and G800 to better fine tune them for American buyers. The result is their Luxury Sport Aircraft. Every pilot I've asked seemed to love flying the all-metal G700S.
Some said it could never be done. How could you add air conditioning to Light-Sport Aircraft? It's too heavy, too expensive, too bulky, said many. They're wrong. The folks at Air Management Technologies or AMT have built the FlyCool system that works excellently on LSA and does not cost an arm and a leg nor does the system take up much room or add much weight. This video (with other installations to follow) explains how it works.
One sweet little Part 103 candidate at Sun 'n Fun 2012 that turned lots of heads what what folks dubbed the "Wonder Bread Airplane" for obvious reasons (at least if you saw TV commercials before 1975). Developer James Weibe has done lots of development on his single place entry and he tells us all about it.
Renegade Aircraft has been working hard, in conjunction with Lycoming engines, to prepare the Renegade (formerly known as the Falcon) for the first-ever installation of the lightened O-233 Lycoming powerplant. As this video is posted to ByDanJohnson.com, that engine install has been completed and final evaluation is proceeding. Hear more with proprietor Doc' Bailey in this video.
Randall Fishman is widely considered the pioneer of electric aircraft, having demonstrated -- and regularly flying -- his Electraflyer trike at Oshkosh 2007. Now in his fourth generation, Randall's Electraflyer ULS is the best yet, in my opinion. We get a chance to hear about its development and examine it closely. It's so new (summer 2012) that his website doesn't cover it yet but more will follow, he assures us.
One of the newest SLSA is an all-American design, from Arion Aircraft and it's called the Lightning LS-1. Winning its approval just before Sun 'n Fun 2009, LS-1 was preceded by some 80 kit Lightnings the company has sold in the last three years; more than 40 are already flying. I found the Lightning great fun. You might, too.
CORRECTION: In this video, I refer to a "retractable" version of the Lightning in kit-built aircraft form, however, that is an error. The model was never designed with such equipment
Allegro was the third aircraft certified under new SLSA rules back in April 2005. When the Czech manufacturer collapsed, the American importer worked to bring production to America. That's now complete and Allegro USA is building the Allegro 2007 in Oregon (alongside the Sadler Vampire). Let's catch up with this true composite.
American Legend is, well... already a legend in the world of Light-Sport Aircraft. With this Super Legend, the Texas company has installed the new Lycoming O-233. At 115 horsepower, the Legend Cub will be much livlier, great if you also want to add floats. The new Lycoming is a multi-fuel engine so you don't have to use only 100LL avgas. To accommodate the greater weight of the engine, American Legend took numerous steps to lighten the aircraft. See what items in this video.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one on the Kolb Firefly. In the very same month that FAA's Part 103 turned 30 years old, we look at a legitimte Part 103 fixed wing design. The Firefly is mated to a stable of other popular Kolb airplanes that you build as a kit (though Firefly can legally be factory assembled or built for you by anyone).
Your friendly Light-Sport and light kitbuilt aircraft video crew trekked to Europe for the 2013 running of Aero Friedrichshafen, arguably the most important aircraft show in the European Union. In this video we give you a preview of some 30 videos we created while attending the four day event. Check this one out and keep clicking back until you've seen them all.
Quicksilver has a simple enough product line composed of single seaters and two seaters for an MX line and GT line. Each has been highly successful and all have an enviable safety record. They also don't cost much. All are kit aircraft like this one built by Steve Watt. The hours are low as the build manuals are some of the very best in the business. More than 15,000 Quicksilver models have been sold.
We looked at the handsome Sam LS at Sebring earlier in 2013 but the update at Sun 'n Fun was that the Sam LS is now flying. The company earned approval under Canadian rules (slightly different than U.S. LSA rules). In this video he tells us some facts and thoughts about flying the new aircraft. Hear directly from the designer who finally flew his own creation; he quotes a few facts and figures.
The Topaz from Ekolot was viewed for the first time by Americans at the 2010 Midwest LSA Expo in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. We've seen this Polish company's Junior before but not their top-of-the-line Topaz. However, around 100 are flying in Europe so it is not a brand new design. Come with us and have a look at this handsome aircraft with the snazzy auto-style interior.
You may not know the Nynja, but you probably have heard of the Sky Ranger. They are almost the same but with some nice updates to the newer model. No, it isn't from Japan, instead having the French heritage it always had but with new U.S. representation from Tony Berman. Come with us to check out this modestly-priced kit that provides plenty of flying fun.
For years Aerolite 103 has been a charmer of the Part 103 class of aircaft. Needing no pilot license, medical, N-numbers, and being able to buy it ready to fly are desirable qualities. To this, Aerolite 103 adds great flying characteristics, features you might not think can be included to an aircraft that cannot weigh more than 254 pounds empty. Topping off this terrific package is a price tag of less than $20,000, ready-to-fly with electric starting, a an airfame parachute, and more. Whew ... that's a great value!
Cessna had a great 2011 with more LSA registrations than any other brand, by a wide margin and for the first time. In this video we speak with new Skycatcher Business Leader Tracy Leopold and regional sales manager Kelly Spaulding about the leadership changes, price changes, and more regarding the LSA entry from the world's largest airplane producer.
The latest from top producer, Tecnam of Italy, is this super handsome P2008. First seen at the 2009 Aero show in Germany, Sebring 2010 was the coming-out party for the P2008 in the United States. In this new SLSA model, we see the marriage of Italy's all-metal skills to the composite capability of CAG, a Spanish company Tecnam bought to acquire their knowledge of such construction. And it worked! The smooth lines and Italian design make for one of the prettiest LSA in the fleet.
The first-ever Heart of America LSA and light aviation event plans to "end the season" for recreational aircraft shows, said principal organizer Doc' Bailey (who is known for being the man behind the Renegade LSA and the installation of Lycoming engines on his and other brands of LSA). A new location with support from the University of Missouri promises good things in the central U.S.
Jabiru is the one company I know of that produces both the airframe and the engine under one brand. Jabiru US purchases a basic kit from Australia (along with the engine) and assembles the package in Shelbyville Tennessee. The company has enjoyed consider success at this venture.
Do you think this is one handsome-looking aircraft? Many folks at AirVenture sure did and so did we. In this video we speak with Claudius Klimpt who tells us about the European gyrocopter under the brand name Arrow Copter. Because FAA can decide how to do it, you cannot buy a ready-to-fly gyrocopter but you can build a kit in a reasonably brief time. If it can look this good when you're done, perhaps you need to watch this video and see if you can become a "rotor-head."
Hansen Air Group has long been a supplier of interesting light aircraft. Today this Atlanta, Georgia based importer offers three different airplanes: the Sky Arrow from Italy, the FK-9 from Germany, and the Peregrine from Germany. In this video review of the FP-04 Peregrine, we look at the airplane which set a record 17-hour flight from east to west coast in the USA.
North Wing builds, well... wings, as you might expect from their name. They do this for trikes, or weight shift aircraft, and for many producers of the carriage part of these aircraft as well as their own full aircraft. North Wing also builds hang gliders, which means just the wing, for those pilots. In this video we look at their Scout XC two seat model and visit with designer Kamron Blevins.
James Weibe has become well known for his accomplishments with his very light -- Belite -- aircraft. However, this energetic businessman, who cut his teeth in the high tech industry, has also applied himself to aircraft instruments. However, these aren't your usual round dials nor digital instruments. These unique instruments are incredibly durable and light. Hear about all of them in this video.
Sebring kicks off the year with the granddaddy of LSA Expo events. Sun 'n Fun starts the flying season. AirVenture is the summer celebration of flight. In the fall, at least for the LSA crowd, the Midwest LSA Expo in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, is planning its fifth year of an event airport manager and event organizer, Chris Collins, calls "intimate." The name fits as you can get up close and personal with any LSA you want and go flying in mere minutes. Join us to hear more.
Here's a bright Quicksilver Sprint you may want to tour with us. Owner/pilot Jason Pearson bought this very new-looking airplane ten years ago (the kit had been delivered ten years before that). Shortly after he bought it he took it all apart down to every single bolt. As he rebuilt, he made some customizations and additions. You can see it all as we have a close look at this 42-mph-cruising, open-cockpit light aircraft. still photo by James Lawrence
M-Squared continues a tradition of simple but well-built open cockpit "ultralight" aircraft. I used quotation marks as M-Square now sells SLSA and ELSA models, but also continues to make the Part 103-capable single seater that you can fly without a pilot's license of any kind plus no medical and no N-numbers required. Freedom in flying was never so obvious or delightful.
Pipistrel, headquartered in Slovenia with U.S.-bound manufacturing done in nearby Italy, has a line of interesting models. In this video we examine the Virus SW, for Short Wing. We've previously reviewed the long wing version and the Sinus motorglider. In addition this company makes a powered sailplane and they started with weight shift trikes. Pipistrel has also distinguished itself with a string of victories in NASA efficiency contests, more recently winning an astounding $1.3 million.
The FlyEco "smart diesel" engine from Europe attracted plenty of attention at Aero Friedrichshafen in Germany. We visited with the designer of the engine as asked him numerous questions we though you might ask. Please bear with the audio amid the chatter of many visitors and keep in mind that English is not his native language. We helped by repeating and translating some metric to U.S. measurements.
Icon's A5 has been so shrewdly promoted that the Southern California company has gathered nearly 1,000 delivery position orders. Some folks wonder if it will make it to market. In this summer 2012 video, we speak with CEO Kirk Hawkins and ask him about a new development -- involving spin resistant airframe -- that may have delayed production but produced some very interesting results that those waiting owners should love. Enjoy many flying photos while we talk.
The Gobosh company, which recently acquired new ownership based out of Denver, Colorado, established itself as an importer of two fine low wing designs. Many LSA enthusiasts already know about the Gobosh 700, an all-metal design. Now, our video camera takes a series of views of a sleek all-composite Gobosh 800 as seen at the Midwest LSA Expo in 2010. Come on along as we check out this low wing speedster.
Pipistrel has a wide variety of Light-Sport Aircraft from trikes (where they started long ago) to powered sailplanes to motorgliders to more conventional fixed wing aircraft. In this video we examine the Sinus (pronounced SEEN-us) in taildragger configuration - it is also available in tricycle gear. This impressive company earned SLSA status for three models earlier in 2011 and they are moving up the sales charts.
Terry Raber has returned with his charming Aerolite 103. He left the business for a time and another man tried to replicate the creation. Now, Terry is back under his Streamline (as in add-on strut fairing) brand. Aerolite 103 is a remarkably well-equipped genuine Part 103 ultralight vehicle that you can buy and fly for about $15,000 though you'll want to get up-to-date information.
Sonex is one the world's most successful kit aircraft producers and they do it all. Sonex makes several interesting airframes and we'll have a look at them. Yet first we'll have CEO Jeremy Monnett show us around their AeroVee engine. They sell kits, and the engine is also a kit, not that it takes too much time to assemble. Hear all Jeremy's advice about powerplants and airframes from the Oshkosh, Wisconsin company that does it all and very well.
Everybody loves the P-51 Mustang and not just pilots, but seemingly anyone who likes airplanes. However, affording one or being qualified to fly one limits any interactive fun with a Mustang to a very limited number of people. Titan Aircraft owner John Williams was another Mustang lover but he did something about it, creating the T-51, a very realistic kit that many can afford. We spoke at length with John about his favorite creation. We think you might enjoy it as well.
Evektor is the No. 1 brand in the LSA fleet, and it earns that title by being number one to earn SLSA approval back in April 2005. It's also one of the most well-used LSA in flight schools around the country. Now, they are selling their new Max model, with several desirable enhancements and features like toe brakes.
Valley Engineering does it all. They fabricate and build one and two seat airplanes, they carve their own props (under the well-known Culver brand), and they fashion their own four stroke engine (based on the Generac generator engine). Perhaps it is doing all this that allows the Smith family to offer unique, well-flying, and very reasonably priced airplanes. In this video we check out their Part 103 model, the Backyard Flyer.
Nando Groppo is a European company in business for several years with more than one model flying. In this video we look at the Trail, a tandem-seating, aluminum, fabric-covered tail dragger. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Trail is a very simple and easy wing folding arrangement that can be done quickly by a single person without disconnecting any linkages. U.S. representatives expect to price the Trail modestly in the $85-90,000 range after they gain SLSA approval. A kit will also be offered.
At the end of 2009, only a select few knew Piper was entering the LSA sector. They announced the PiperSport in January and said they'd deliver the first at Sun 'n Fun, only three months later. And they did... logging not only their first delivery on schedule, but taking seven more orders right at Sun 'n Fun 2010. With over 100 SportCruisers (the PiperSport's previous name) and expecting to sell 75 in 2010, Piper will move up the sales rank smartly. In this video, we check out the cockpit fully.
You may think you know the Rally but what you probably don't know is the ambitious plans of Phil McCoy who "bought the company" he says. He also reported buying space at the Barstow, Florida airport and he plans to fully build the Rally and an all-metal model called the Century, both designed by Storm Aircraft in Italy. Both Rally and Century, currently approved as SLSA, will also be available as kits. Hear about all the plans.
One of the most attention-getting aircraft at AirVenture 2012 was the Lisa Akoya, and no wonder. Akoya has design qualities and features not found on any other aircraft we've seen. After the airshow, the company announced new plans regarding financing so the future has some questions marks. Yet something this beautiful is going to emerge one day. Join us as we a tour of the eye-popping Akoya inside and out.
The Sadler Vampire is a new-old design. It's new to those attending airshows today, but we saw this design as a single seater many years ago. For a while it found military applications but is now returning as a fully-built (or kit) aircraft with Special Light-Sport Aircraft approval in progress. Vampire has the most unusual and compact folding wing design of any LSA.
Tecnam, one of the most successful manufacturers in the LSA industry, makes several models of which one of the newest is the Eaglet. Introduced in 2008, the Eaglet is an amalgam of their Echo Super and Bravo high wing models. Based on their natural handling, good performance, and long company history, Eaglet is worth a closer look.
Do you wish you could have gone to Aero like we did? Are you interested in light aircraft you may not see in the USA? This first of several part Quick Tour of Aero 2013 will take you around just one of several gynasium-sized halls where we'll give you a glimpse of some intriguing designs. We'll provide a few facts and a web address so you can learn more if you wish. Come on along ... these videos are fast and fun; we think you'll like them.
Rainbow Aviation hails from South Africa, a long ways away. But in Wisconsin, Midwest Sport Aviation represents the far-off brand with local service. At the Midwest LSA Expo 2011 they announced a new dealer (Aero Sport Planes) and we discussed kits and fully built plus taildragger options for this remarkably low-priced LSA ($35,000 to $60,000).
The Hawk series from CGS Aviation is one of our light aviation stalwarts. With more than 1,500 flying since 1983, Hawk is well established and enjoys a great accident record. It flies wonderfully but what may be Hawk's best sales feature in these days of $130,000 LSA is the l-o-w price. Check the video (near the end) to hear price info.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one on the Magni Gyro M-24 Orion. Gyros have a special place in the hearts of some pilots... humorously called rotorheads; you know if you're one of them. We catch up with the new side-by-side, fully-enclosed Magni M2-24 Orion and hear how this kit is to build and fly.
LSA America is now the builder of the #3 Light-Sport Aircraft to win approval as a Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Recently a new factory opened in Littleton, North Carolina (thanks to financial support from the state among other sources) and new Allegro LSA are starting to roll off the line. In this video we'll update the situation for the newest U.S.-based manufacturer of LSA. The video was shot just before the new factory opened.
One of the difficult things to do in aviation is to introduce a new engine. Everyone (rightfully) wants to be pretty certain the new powerplant can hold up to steady duty. Therefore, it is common for the Experimental Amateur Built community to experiment first and to provide valuable "field testing" that shows the merits. Viking Engine's Jan Eggenfellner shows us around the engine and answers some of the questions anyone would ask.
In the works for many months, the Sebring 2013 event saw the finished installation of the Lycoming AEIO-233 aerobatic-capable powerplant installed on the nose of the FK12 Comet (which itself can handle up to 9 Gs of positive loading). Aerobatic legend Patty Wagstaff is considering doing a routine in a Light-Sport Aircraft and it could be this one after a period of suitable trials. Watch this video and learn more about the project.
Law Enforcement and Light-Sport Aircraft. Sound dull? Sound like somebody else may be interested but not you? I understand. But UltralightNews and I came across a fascinating aerial observation system that is inexpensive and can easily be handled by LSA. Those two factors make for a compelling reason to check out this video. Plus the capabilities of the system, employing computer technology, is quite amazing.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one on the Flaeming Peregrine. This handsome low wing composite aircraft has been used to achieve a fast cross-the-USA flight in about 17 hours. This was done by some young pilots, one of whom benefited from the Able Flight schlolarship for disabled persons, a great project generously supported by Hansen Air Group, which sells the Peregrine and several other LSA.
As one who is lucky to fly lots of airplanes, questions about which aircraft I recommend are common (hint: try PlaneFinder 2.0). A close second is, "Do you have a particular headset you like?" The question is logical since I often use whatever is in the cockpit of the airplane I fly. It didn't take long before I recognized one of the very best is the Sennheiser S1. It performs well, but the main reason to recommend it? It is very comfortable. Check this video to see why.
We've seen SeaMax before from Brazilian designer Miguel Rosario. The lovely little amphibious seaplane is the only one presently (early 2012) that can boast full Special Light-Sport Aircraft approval. We speak to the new importer who has been working with the Brazil factory to make more changes to suit American buyers plus a number of good changes to the preceding design. As a treat, we also introduce you to the new boss of the Seaplane Pilots Association.
Wicks Aircraft is one of the legacy catalog mail order companies in aviation. Operated by Scott Wick, the company is a fixture at all the major airshows. We caught up with Scott, working his booth as always, at the Midwest LSA Expo in September 2011. Scott talks to us about what products are causing Wicks Aircraft to be having a strong year despite economic weakness.
In this April 2011 video, LAMA president Dan Johnson reviews some of the key activities of the association that shows how it assists the fast-growing industry of Light-Sport Aircraft. Hear about LAMAsafety.org, a new website to help owners and mechanics find important safety information and much more.
The Italian design from ICP is the Savannah, one of the best performing STOL (Short Take Off and Landing) Light-Sport Aircraft. Skykits is a formerly Canadian company recently moved to Tennessee and they build major components from ICP into no less than four finished versions called the regular Savannah, VG, ADV, and Skykits special variation, the Rampage.
Just Aircraft's SuperSTOL was a major hit on the Paradise City runway at Sun 'n Fun 2013. In this video we continue our review of this amazing aircraft as we interview principal designer Troy Woodland. We go fly the aircraft; with cameras on the wing and even the tailwheel, you can verify its unusual performance that allows you to land with the joystick full aft. Watch the video to hear some of its secrets.
Quad City Ultralights of Iowa is one of the oldest suppliers of light aircraft, having celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2008. With more than 3,500 aircraft flying, Quad City is also one of the most successful. We examine their Challenger II Light-Sport Special model at AirVenture 2011 and speak with company founder, Dave Goulet, who remains in charge of the company since its founding.
North Wing makes more trikes than you might think. We also have a video on the sweet little Solairus, a soaring trike. In this video we review the Maverick, a more deluxe single seater with a beefier engine from Kawasaki. Yet even with the additional features, Maverick still fits into Part 103 where no pilot license, airman's medical, or N-numbers are needed.
The Sebring U. S. Sport Aviation Expo -- or simply Sebring LSA Expo, as many call it -- is the main event for Light-Sport Aircraft in the United States. Occurring in January in Sebring, Florida, the event has grown into the year-opening event for aviation and attracts nearly every producer and importer in the LSA industry. It's a must-go for thousands and we help tell you about the next event.
Evektor has adhered closely to a principle called CANI... Continuous and Never Ending Improvement. The Czech company's aircraft have seen exactly that, a series of continuous changes. In this video, AB Flight's Art Tarola tells us about some changes that might please aircraft buyers. Art and Steve Minnich of Dreams Come True are the key representatives of all Evektor aircraft. Check it all out in this video.
Here's the sharp new Solairus (yes, that's the right spelling) from North Wing, the premiere American producer of weight-shift trike ultralights and Light-Sport Aircraft. Solairus easily qualifies as a Part 103 ultralight vehicle meaning no license is needed. The fresh design is a departure from the usual trike and the one we examine is powered with a four stroke engine with electric starting. You'll want to watch the video to get all the details.
The American Legend Cub is... well, a legend in Special Light-Sport Aircraft. The iconic Cub look is well captured by this Texas company that has owned the #2 sales spot (#1 among American companies) since the first LSA flew in 2005. Legend has developed engine choices, offers floats, and even has a kit program.
Storm of Italy (represented in the USA by Air Elite Aviation) has designed and produces three very different aircraft. In addition to the high wing composite Rally, the company makes this all metal low wing Century. Storm also makes an amphibious Sea Storm though it is not being imported to the USA at this time.
Infinity was the first company in the Powered Parachute field to win Special Light-Sport Aircraft approval. Today, they make a line of aircraft from the $11,000 Part 103 model to a deluxe, top-of-the-line two seater with the 100-hp Rotax 912S powerplant that sells for $31,000 (both numbers in early 2010). You can also build an ELSA kit. This video walks you through the company's entire line.
CubCrafters is a well-established company that retores vintage Cubs, makes the FAA Type Certificated Top Cub, and is one of our LSA market leaders with their SportCub. This may look like a replica Cub but is actually a thoroughly modern version as evidenced by significant use of carbon fiber to stay with the LSA empty weight limit.
Anybody who organizes an airshow knows one irrefutable fact: you cannot offer these shows with a veritable army of volunteers. Indeed, the light plane area at AirVenture (almost exactly like Paradise City at Sun 'n Fun) has 225 volunteers, just in this one area of the giant EAA AirVenture Oshkosh event. We speak with Lee Crevier, the present chairman of the light plane area. He helps us pay our respect to that army of volunteers.
While Flight Design has released two newer models (the CTLS and all-metal MC), it was the CTsw that helped the German Flight Design company continue to be the market leader, even after four years and nearly 100 new models followed the CT series into the American market. CTsw is one of the fastest and longest flying LSA in the U.S. fleet.
The S-6 is one of the best-proven and most familiar airplanes among all SLSA and it comes from one of the very top American kit producers, Rans, Inc. Available as a kit or ready-to-fly, the S-6LS is also highly affordable starting at $63,000 reasonably well equipped. A kit starts at $20,000 so Rans can offer something for almost everyone.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one on the Challenger. Producer Quad City Ultralights is one of the most successful light aircraft kit producers in aviation with more than 2,500 aircraft flying and stable leadership of more almost 30 years of the same ownership. In this short video, we speak to one of their good local dealers, Jim Robinson, proprietor of Erie Airpark.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one is the Sky Arrow. This Special LSA has been around for years but had a down period after the Italian manufacturer went out of business. It has since been acquired by a large Italian aerospace company -- Magnaghi Aeronautica -- and they are back in production with this smooth, great flying airplane. Here more on our short (3 min) video update.
At Aero 2013, Tecnam mounted a very large display with nearly every one of their many current aircraft. At center stage was the brand new Astore, their first new low wing Light-Sport Aircraft in many years, named to commemorate the company's 65th anniversary. In this video we interview Paolo Pascale, Tecnam's managing director. He doesn't often do media interviews, we're told, so enjoy his view of the new aircraft.
SkyReach is a new company that took over from Rainbow Aircraft that became known for their low-priced Cheetah. Bush Cat is a slightly changed model (5% different) including stronger undercarriage structure, tires, brakes and more. Hear what the other differences are as we speak to the company representative. Also get an explanation for the flashy wing decoration. And, no, they still maintain the bargain price. Check it out!
Quicksilver is one of light aviation's strongest brands, and also one of the biggest with more than 15,000 delivered since the early 1970s. In this video we speak with national sales guru Todd Ellefson about the company's plans to achieve Special Light-Sport Aircraft status meaning you will be able to buy a ready-to-fly GT500 or Sport 2S model. Kits will remain available and you can hear about other operations to provide models to enthusiasts.
FPNA stands for Floatplanes and Amphibians and they're into water flying, as the name implies. However, they also build an increasingly popular landplane called the Valor. Put that on their own straight or amphibious float system and you have the Cape Town. Land or sea, the A-22 model is a fun flying machine with terrific visibility.
Criquet Storch is an unusual Special Light-Sport Aircraft... in many ways. It looks unusual, modeled as it is after the World War II-era Storch which achieved fame or infamy by rescuing Italian leader Mussolini from a mountain side during that conflict. The quite accurate replica is also unusual for its different flight characteristics. One look at the long, long gear legs tells you Storch is meant for another kind of flying. Our video provides some of the story.
One of the most unusual Light-Sport Aircraft in the fleet is also the most powerful, with its new 190-hp engine. ITEC's Maverick is both powered parachute and up to a four-seater car. More than just a sedan, Maverick is a hot rod that can truly dash around on the ground. Hear from factory representatives to hear what has changed and how novel this machine appears to be.
One of the toughest things to do in aviation is bring a new engine to market. Pilots/buyers take time to gain confidence in new powerplants even moreso than with new airframes. We spoke to UL Power representative Robert Helms last year at the Midwest LSA Expo and this year he updates us on new engine options all the way up to 196 horsepower. All engines have FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control), just like far more expensive FAA-certified engines.
In Shelbyville, Tennessee, two LSA companies are located side-by-side. The two are Jabiru USA and Arion. The former builds a line of high wing composite LSA lead by the J-230. The latter created and builds the sleek Lightning LS-1. In our review shot in 2011, we cover both companies and the Jabiru engine that powers both plus some other brands. Watch (rather than listen) for the correct web address for all companies, or click the link above the thumbnail photo on the LSA Videos page.
FK Lightplanes is known to Americans for its foldable high wing, the FK9. Now the German company and its importer Hansen Air Group is offering their unique folding biplane, the FK12 Comet. Popular in Europe for years, the FK12 offers aerobatic flying capability... but only after the Lycoming O-233 engine is installed. Catch the details on this video.
Plenty of aviators are fascinated with nostalic aircraft and World War I airplanes hark back to the very earliest days of flying. Airdrome offers a surprising 21 models -- two of which can qualify as ultralight; the rest are experimental Amateur Built kits though all can be flown with a Sport Pilot certificate. More than 500 kits have been sold, 75 of which are completed and flying (the project is 300 to 500 hours). Two movies (Flyboys and Amelia) plus a TV show have employed Airdrome aircraft.
Quicksilver Aeronautics -- New owners and aircraft
Dynon Avionics has arguably become the largest supplier of LSA avionics in the form of computer screen displays of engine monitoring and flight instruments. At AOPA 2009, they introduced their impressive new SkyView synthetic vision system. In this video at Sebring 2010, we look at one of the first installations of this big-screen setup in the Flight Design CTLS.
In early 2013 Tecnam acquired the design rights and tooling to produce Snap, the first aircraft in the LSA space aimed specifically at aerobatic flying. It uses a special version of the Rotax 912 and we spoke to Fabio Russo, the designer of the aircraft. He is also now the chief R&D engineer for Tecnam, so the company benefits from the designer and his design. It will be sold in the USA by SportairUSA.
In this video we meet the new owners of Quicksilver, now called Quicksilver Aeronautics. This storied company based in southern California, has built more than 15,000 aircraft and in 2002 and 2003 delivered more aircraft than Cessna, Piper, and Beechcraft combined! Such an achievement suggests this company is around for the long haul and we'll hear more about their plans and aircraft in this video. (We recommend you turn up your sound volume due to background noises.)
1 Is LSA dead?! -- Our Reply: NO!
BRS Parachutes -- Boris Popov
Magni Gyro -- Two models
Recently some aviation industry leaders -- people who reach pilots through magazines, websites, and videos -- have suggested the LSA industry is "in critical condition." We could not disagree more and have assembled this video to confront these unworthy negative messages. Our preferred message: Is it not better to work together as aviators to share the joy we find in flight?
BRS Parachutes is the leading developer of emergency parachutes intended to save the entire airplane including all occupants. The company has saved more than 276 lives (the numbers seems always to increase so check their website for the latest count). At Sun 'n Fun 2012, we spoke with company founder and early developer, Boris Popov, about the range of BRS products.
We speak with Greg Gremminger, the longtime importer of the Magni line out of Italy. Greg helps us understand the LSA rules for gyros (which have long been in contention) and shows us around his two birds at the Midwest LSA Expo in 2012. We look at the open cockpit, tandem seating M-22 Voyager model plus the newer side-by-side, fully-enclosed M-24 Orion model. These are kits but the build is modestly low. Have a watch and learn for yourself.
AirBorne is one of the world's most established and successful light aircraft producers. They build a top-selling line of weight shift aircraft commonly known as trikes. They also build a line of well respected hang gliders. At the lower-speed end of the spectrum, AirBorne is a major player. However, their XT 912 is no slow poke, achieving nearly 90 mph of speed. AirBorne builds a solid, secure aircraft; let's have a look.
Some of the very lightest aircraft at the huge Aero Friedrichshafen 2013 event were those for hang gliding or light trike flying. They were also electric powered, proving again the idea that lightweight flying machines can employ electric power today. In this video we look at several variations on the theme and hear about special features to make electric power work.
Fisher Flying Products is one of the most prolific kit manufacturers in the industry, certainly as measured by the sheer number of models available. The former U.S. company was sold to Canadian ownership in 2009 to allow continued production of these highly affordable kits. For less money and less work than you might expect, Fisher probably has an aircraft you could enjoy.
In the Light-Sport Aircraft space, buyers are faced with several options... and not panel or engine options. In this video we explain the differences between SLSA (Special Light-Sport Aircraft), ELSA (Experimental Light-Sport Aircraft), and EAB (Experimental Amateur Built). The bad news? It's a bit confusing. The good news? Buyers have lots of choices. We demystify the different categories.
Sebring 2013 Video - Italian designs are usually pleasing to view, from shoes to airplanes. Golden Avio's F30 is such an example and this one was created by a famous designer named Stelio Frati, creator of the handsome Falco F8L that is recognized around the world. Representative Luca Ferragatta explains the company's plans for SLSA approval and we have a quick look at the aircraft.
As evidence of how fast things move in the world of Light-Sport, as recently as the Midwest LSA Expo, Piper was not affiliated with the Czech Sport Aircraft Sport Cruiser (formerly built by Czech Aircraft Works). This video, shot in early October 2009, covers the airplane now known to Americans as the PiperSport. References to the CSA website have been updated but the facts about this attractive low-wing LSA remain accurate.
Some of the most intriguing aircraft that fly at major airshows like Sun 'n Fun are paragliders. These are not powered parachutes with wheeled carriages, but rather the sort of flying machine you "wear" on your back and run into the air. These are the lightest of all powered aircraft and you can literally put your entire aircraft in the trunk of an average sized car. We speak with expert Paul Czarnecki of Planet PG in southwest Florida who gives us kind of video lesson in flying these rigs.
You should already know the Sling. The South African design set a new benchmark by coming off design and initial development to take an east-to-west trip around the globe. That showed the confidence of designers Mike Blyth and James Pittman. At Sun 'n Fun 2013, we spoke with reps from The Airplane Factory USA who answered questions about flight characteristics and future plans plus talk about the kit Sling they're assembling. Watch this video to get all the facts.
We reviewed the folding wing Groppo Trail at Sebring where it stood on conventional or taildragger gear. At Aero, we again spoke with the designer Nando Groppo and his associate who helps with language translation regarding the company's new tricycle gear version. For many pilots trained on tri-gear, this may be a better choice. Nando once again shows us how easily the wing can fold by a single person.
Chattanooga, Tennessee-based Fly Hard Trikes makes a line of lightweight trikes, one of which is the Skycycle that can qualify as a Part 103 ultralight vehicle. In production for 13 years at the time our video was recorded. Proprietor Mike Theeke installs several engines according to a customer's wishes. On this particular example, we see the Vernor V4 four stroke, electric start engine that produces 35 horsepower. See and hear more in this video.
Remos is an up and coming company that has taken the lead in FAA registrations and one reason is the new GX model that looks great and flies well. The interior was redone as was the wing construction making a nice upgrade from the G-3 that flew in Europe for many years. Pop its gull wing doors and see for yourself.
A new SLSA debuted at AirVenture 2011. Welcome to the World Aircraft Company Spirit, a product from a collaboration between Skykits manufacturer Eric Giles and longtime designer Max Tedesco. Giles is a Canadian now located in Paris, Tennessee and he's partnered with a Columbian engineer. Spirit is their first offering; it will be built in the U.S.
Milan Bristela is the man behind BRS Aero and, as the company is recognized in America, Bristell USA and its namesake aircraft. However, at Aero 2013 we saw a new version, a taildragger Bristell. In our video we speak with the designer and ask him about his family-run company and the newest model he is bringing to the market.
An all-American design, the Just Aircraft Highlander is more than "just" an aircraft. Here's a rugged taildragger that can carry quite a load and can land on unimproved airstrips... or perhaps alongside that trout stream you always wanted to fish. Beyond its utility, Highlander is roomy to let you sleep in it. (Note: Contrary to my memory test on camera, I do have a pilot report on Highlander.)
Having shipped their first product in 2003, Dynon has to some extent come first circle with the introduction of their D1 Pocket Panel. This tiny little device does more than the first instrument 10 years earlier but it is a powerful little package. Find out more about D1 in this video and see why general aviation pilots flying Type Certified aircraft are buying the pocket-sized instrument for use in their airplanes.
We spoke with John McBean of Kitfox Aircraft to hear first about his new installation of the Rotax 912 iS engine on a Kitfox flown from Idaho to Florida. But we also spoke about the durability of the Kitfox in a flight training environment. Hear about one airframe with more than 1,700 hours and more than 5,000 landings, all in flight instruction. At Sebring we examined several LSA to dispel the mistaken rumor that LSA can't hold up in flight instruction.
Many of us have long admired the supersleek Lightning LS-1 and now it's better than ever. We spoke to co-designer and company leader Nick Otterback about changes to the aircraft and also about Arion's 2012 FAA very thorough audit. That's good reassurance for buyers but what's more fun is a newly enlarged tail. Nick tells us how this affects and improves an already great Light-Sport Aircraft (also available as a kit).
FULL-LENGTH VIDEO PILOT REPORT -- After well over 100 shorter-length video reports on Light-Sport Aircraft and other Sport Pilot-eligible flying machines, Dan Johnson and the Light Sport and Ultralight Flyer are pleased to offer our first full-length pilot report. Here you'll find 45 minutes of flying footage and detail commentary that can help decide which airplane you want to buy. Grab a beverage, sit back at your computer, mobile device, or TV and enjoy this ground-breaking review of the new Evektor Harmony LSA. (Run-time: 45 minutes)
RANS is one of America's largest light aircraft producers, and has been so since 1983. Among their many designs are no less than three Special Light-Sport Aircraft and the S-7LS is one them. Also available as a kit, the ready-to-fly S-7 is a joy to fly. A tandem seater with huge wide doors on both sides, S-7 works well as a floatplane. Other RANS SLSAs include the S-19 low wing and the S-6 high wing side-by-side.
Aerotrek is the new name for a pair of Special Light-Sport Aircraft, the tricycle gear A240 and the taildragger A220. These reasonably priced aircraft (mid-$60,000 range) offer a good cruise in a lightweight, quick handling aircraft. The wings fold easily so you can make a trailer your hangar.
MINI REVIEW -- In what we expect to be the first of many more, we offer our first mini review of an aircraft. Longer reviews are available here on ByDanJohnson.com ...just click on the link above any video still image to see what content is available. Plus, we'll add more full-length video reports over time. Meanwhile, enjoy this short take on the much-admired Fk12 Comet biplane with aerobatic potential.
M-Squared earns top honors two ways. First, this is THE lowest-cost, fully-built, ASTM-certified Special Light-Sport Aircraft in the fleet. At $34,995 ready-to-fly, you can probably afford a Breese 2. Secondly, M-Squared is the first of the former ultralight companies to make the jump to full LSA approval. Congratulations, M-Squared!
Of all the bright, colorful airplanes in the LSA Mall at Sun 'n Fun 2009, the Falcon had a distinction that sets it apart from all other models and endears it to experience general aviation pilots: Falcon LS is powered by a Lycoming O-235, a brand familiar to many.
You may know the Zlin Savage, now distributed in America by SportairUSA (the same folks that bring you the Sting, Sirius, and other cool light airplane gear). But iCub improves on the already great-flying Savage by adding the very latest of new technology. The primary instrument up front is an Apple iPad. Communicating via an onboard wireless system, the aft seat occupant has an iPhone 4 for smaller but otherwise nearly identical instrumentation.
Sensenich -- Props for LSA & Homebuilts
Interview with Patty Wagstaff
2 LSA Brands -- Very Low Cost
Sensenich (pronounced Sensen-ICK) is one of the best-known prop manufacturers in the world, long supplying Lycoming and Continental aircraft engines, but also airboat makers. In 2012 Sensenich came out with a line of props specifically aimed at the Light-Sport Aircraft community and they can serve Rotax and Jabiru as well as Lycoming and Continental. Join us while we visit with company president Don Rowell at AirVenture Oshkosh.
Most aviators already know the name Patty Wagstaff from her many aerobatic performances at major airshows while flying her powerful Extra 300. The three-time National Aerobatic Champion performed at Sebring 2013, which gave us the chance to conduct an interview with her. Come watch and see if Patty will consider doing a routine in a Light-Sport Aircaft.
Price is important; no surprise. But you also want an aircraft that will deliver the enjoyment of flight. Lucky us; we have two models to show you that provide plenty of flying fun but do so at very modest cost. They're simpler, sure. But these airplanes cost today what we thought LSA were going to cost back in 2003... and that's pretty amazing. Come with us and take a look at the X-Air LS and the Rainbow Aircraft Cheetah.
The Legend Cub series -- the best-selling SLSA since day one -- is available in a variety of formats: regular land version, straight float version, amphib float version, and in kit-built form. Here we look at the Baumann float-equipped Legend Cub and we like what we see with these mechanically-actuated floats (no hydraulic weight).
At AirVenture 2010, we took a close look at Light-Sport Aircraft builder Dave Jilanti's Lightning LS-1, an early example of a sleek low-wing built as an Experimental LSA. This handsome quasi-homebuilt is one of three ways you can own the Lightning, an all-American, all-composite Light-Sport of impressive performance from Arion based in Shelbyville, Tennessee.(Note: I incorrectly referred to "Don" instead of Dave Jilanti as the builder.)
Rotax Aircraft Engines power more Light-Sport Aircraft than any other engine by a wide margin. Around the world, light aircraft of all types depend on the Rotax brand. Any new engine has a warranty but Kodiak, the distributor of Rotax brand to the Americas, has now extended the warranty for all their customers. RFSC rep' William Burgher also helps Rotax users contact Rotax Maintenance Technicans.
The Petrel isn't new but to Americans the Super Petrel LS is brand new. We speak with the designer to ask about the new-to-Americans model and we'll have more later after she's flown off her FAA-mandated 40 hours. Meanwhile let's have a look at the only biplane seaplane LSA and hear how it works, directly from the designer's point of view. The airplane is being offered by a dealer in the Daytona Beach, Florida area.
We all know the Aventura line of formerly ultralight-based amphibious light aircraft, dating back 20 years. Recently, Alex Rolinksi took over the company as the new owner and he details some plans as the company becomes re-enegized. Alex, an A&P and longtime pilot, gives us some general ideas about prices and they are to be celebrated as the costs are about as low as an seaplane can be. Hear and see the line on this video.
One of light aviation's standard-bearers is the Kitfox. With more than 3,000 flying worldwide, this kit success story is now available as a ready-to-fly Special Light-Sport Aircraft than can be and is used in taildragger flight schools. This video looks at a very clean example of a Kitfox that does flight training for tailwheel and back country operations. We talk with company owner John McBean and the flight school operator, Paul Leadabrand.
We know the elegant Phoenix, a sleek motorglider that also enjoys flying powered cross country flights (more on an especially long flight in another video). At Aero 2013 we had a chance to visit with Martin Stepanek about Phoenix Air's pure-electric aircraft called the ePhoenix. Martin helps us understand the details of electric power in a modern, efficient Light-Sport Aircraft.
SeaRey from Progressive Aerodyne is an all-American amphibian in the Light-Sport Aircraft segment. The U.S.-manufactured entry may follow several foreign designs, but is no newcomer. More than 400 flying aircraft worldwide have been created by home builders in a tight-knit community. SeaRey will be available as a fully-built SLSA soon.
Kolb's Firefly, developed several years ago, is a true-blue entry to the Part 103 ultralight rule. It was purpose-designed to accommodate a more powerful engine to meet customer interest, but to do so while staying within Part 103 254-pound empty weight mandate. It does! And with the legendary good Kolb handling paired with a more potent powerplant, here's a low-cost option to keep you smiling after a day's flying.
Come along with us as we check out the potent CubCrafters Carbon Cub SS with its 180-horsepower engine. You fly right with us as we put the SS through its paces including the energetic climb, slow flight, stalls, steep turns, and finally ending with a three point landing. Both takeoff and landing, while exciting, were not challenging, at least for someone with taildragger experience. See for yourself and hear the dialogue between Ben Redman of Rare Aircraft and Dan Johnson. TRT: 33 minutes
Flight Design has lead the Light-Sport Aircraft market since Day One, selling variations of its all-carbon fiber CT series including the present-day CTLS. The MC is the German company's new all-metal airplane. MC stands for Metal Concept. With conventional construction, repairs are easier and many mechanics are familiar with working in aluminum. This brings flight schools to look at MC, but a lower price attracts everyone.
From the one company with both low and high wing all-composite Light-Sport Aircraft comes the new high wing Sirius from American importer SportairUSA. This Arkansas-based company is better known for the low wing Sting but the Sirius is the newest. We take you on a tour of the slick model with SportairUSA's Bill Canino and provide lots of descriptive information.
Some have called this design the Jeep of the sky and one flight demonstration will tell you why. An examination shows the leading edge slats and an overall design intended for the shortest possible takeoff and landing (called STOL) and the second generation STOL CH 750 can provide that capability all day long. A well established design from a longtime supplier, about a kit a day leaves Mexico, Missouri including the company's low wing Zodiac CH 650 design.
At AirVenture 2012, we had a look at an aircraft that's managed to stay under the radar through its development. This handsome tandem-seating, twin-tail-boom aircraft is unique in the LSA space, especially with what the designers call a U-tail. We spoke with the two Steves (Martin and Schultz) about the creation, based in the Twin Cities, Minnesota area.
Lycoming is the storied aircraft engine brand name that even predates aircraft as you'll hear in this interview with the company's Mike Kraft. Lycoming has worked closely with Renegade Light Sport aircraft company in Lee's Summit, Missouri and that is now paying off with installations in more and more LSA. Optimized for use in Light-Sport, the O-233 has lost some 40 pounds and is raring to go even while sustaining its 2,400 TBO.
MIDWEST LSA EXPO 2012 -- One of our series of many short videos from the fall show, this one on the MX Sprint. We look at an homebuilt version and that means it can be modified by the owner as this one was. This short video (3 min) give you some basic info and leads you to more about Quicksilver Aeronautics, now under new, motivated management. Take a part of the Midwest LSA Expo tour.
Video viewers like collections of LSA where we look at several different models and review their differences. In this edition shot at the 2011 Midwest LSA Expo, we bring in representatives from each company to help with the details as we tour five models in a circle: Zlin Savage iCub; FK12 Comet; Rans S-7 Courier; CubCrafters CarbonCub SS; and American Legend Cub. Note that this video runs 25 minutes.
We speak with Jerry Olenick of Green Sky Adventures about his Micro Mong, a sweet little biplane that can meet Part 103. This one is powered by the HKS engine, another product Green Sky represents. Sold only a kit, this Ed Fisher design can deliver great savings in return for a little sweat equity. Even with the four-stroke HKS and instruments, Micro Mong costs barely over $20,000 in 2012.
We literally shoot the Breese in this video as we examine a very special single seater from M-Squared. This owner built example has numerous unique features to it that we look at in detail. But the main ingredient may be the dual turbocharged HKS two cylinder four stroke engine that makes 80 horsepower, which in turn must make an extremely impressive performer out of the otherwise mild-mannered Breese SS.
When the Sport Pilot / Light-Sport Aircraft rule (SP/LSA) was released in summer 2004, it contained a provision for pilots (Sport Pilot certificate), for aircraft (LSA definition and ASTM standards), but also for mechanics (Light-Sport Repairman-Inspection or -Maintenance). The video contains some charts with more detail. In the video I mistakenly referred to the LSR-M rating as "Mechanic." I meant to say "Maintenance."
In the world of two stroke engines, Hirth Engines of Germany remain as one long-term supplier. The company has a large range of two stroke powerplants and a lengthy history in the business. At AirVenture 2011, we asked U.S. boss Matt Dander to help us view the entire line.
Wipaire is one of the country's or world's best known float manufacturers. Based at the South St. Paul, Minnesota airport, Wipaire has a long his of making floats for aircraft as large as the Twin Otter or Cessna Caravan. Now they are introducing a line of floats for Light-Sport Aircraft. We spoke with Chuck Wiplinger of the founding family and asked about the new project.
If you like Zenith Aircraft's CH-750 STOL -- widely regarded as a "Sky Jeep" - you've been able to buy and build for some years, but you had to purchase a kit after a related company, AMD, ceased operations. Now, Pete Krotje explains how he formed a new company, Tenn-Air, to fully build the CH-750. Powered by the energetic 120-hp Jabiru engine, this bird performs (I flew it earlier and can attest to its performance). Here about Pete's plans to offer interested pilot a buy-and-fly model.
"Wind is your friend" in a gyro. That means take off is faster when the wind blows down the runway. But neither is wind, like crosswind, a problem; commonly we see gyros operate in wind conditions that keep light fixed wings airplanes on the ground. Flying a gyro is more like flying a fixed wing than flying a helicpoter. In this video we get lots of info about gyroplane flying. Let's go!
Super 2 was first seen as a British aircraft and indeed, that's where I first flew it. Now it is a Made-in-America design under the direction of Tony Dawson of North Carolina. His company is Opus Aircraft and this Special Light-Sport Aircraft won approval in February 2008. It's swept forward wings, aft hinging canopy, and reverse link nosewheel suspension are just some of the differences of this interesting aircraft.
Meet the eight youthful-faced Cessna "kids" that served as ambassadors for Cessna as they flew eight distinctively-painted and numbered Skycatcher LSA around the USA promoting Sport Pilot, Light-Sport Aircraft... and, of course, Skycatcher. After we meet each ambassador pilot and their dispatcher to hear of their experiences, we speak with Tracy Leopold about Cessna's move into Primary Category certification so the company can more quick satisfy Skycatcher demand in Europe.
From Aeroprakt in Kiev, Ukraine comes this Light-Sport Aircraft with the hugest visibility you'll find... large clear areas allow you to see almost any direction. Aligned with their Florida assembler, Aeroprakt America, the international company that has designed many practical aircraft offers direct U.S. representation in addition to other outlets. Come have a look around the A-22 with us in this video.
The sleek Dynamic... it turns heads where ever it shows up and Sebring 2010 was no exception. First appearing in the USA as a retractable aircraft, this video review looks at the straight-legged SLSA model that appears to lose none of its speedy lines. Beautifully finished, the all-composite Light-Sport deserves a closer look but we'll show you around the basics.
Evektor is, was, and always will be the very first Special LSA to earn an FAA airworthiness certificate in the United States. But this company has not rested on those noteworthy laurels. Evektor and their U.S. representatives, Dreams Come True and AB Flight, have continually upgraded the airplane. In this video Art Tarola details some new offerings announced at AirVenture 2012 to help flight schools acquire and maintain the SportStar or Harmony.
BOT Aircraft is the producer of the Speed Cruiser LSA, which we reviewed earlier. In this video shot at Aero Friedrichshafen, we explore the company's work with the D-Motor aircraft engine. As the launch customer for the powerplant, B.O.T. boss Reiner Tauern reviews with us why he chose the new engine and what buyers might expect of it. In addition, B.O.T. also supports hand controls for pilots who have special needs.
Sky Arrow, now available in blue and white (you hear the humor about "Any color you like..." on the video) from Magnaghi Aeronautica, the large Italian aerospace company that took over the Sky Arrow design and manufacturing after the previous company failed. This beautiful flying Light-Sport Aircraft was in limbo for a few years but Magnaghi rescued it. Sky Arrow has often been used for training disabled persons thanks to hand controls. Here what changed after Magnaghi took over.
The LSA Tour is an idea to bring the airshow to the visitor, rather than asking them to trek across the country to visit one of the major airshows. Following the success of the LSA Mall at events, the LSA Tour positions several top brands in close proximity to allow broad access to the representatives of these Light-Sport Aircraft. The LSA Tour has been all over the country; this video talks about the event in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
The Tornado is one of a line of small-looking, hot-handling, tandem-seated light aircraft including one model that can still meet Part 103 for ultralight vehicles. Short spans of an all-metal wing and a racy fighter-aircraft look to the cabin area add to the appeal of the four Tornado models. We speak with developer and longtime company boss John Williams who tells about construction and much more.
Kolb is one of the most familiar brands to anyone involved with ultralight or light kit aircraft. Every model they created was a taildragger. They were easy to learn but some folks simply prefer tricycle gear. So, Kolb added a nose wheel, but they left the tailwheel. Welcome to the aircraft that goes both ways... a little differently.
World Aircraft continues its pace of rapid development in concert with Columbian designer Max Tedesco. Company boss Eric Giles announced that all manufacturing will now take place in Paris, Tennessee, and that includes their newest Vision LT. The LT model focuses on keeping the cost remarkably low, only $85,000 for a quite well equipped Light-Sport Aircraft. We speak with Dan Miller, rep' for World at Sebring 2013.
North Wing is widely known for its line of weight shift aircraft, or trikes, and for wings for trikes of many producers. Trikes being open cockpit aircraft, North Wing also has a line of battery-powered, heated clothing. Gloves, control bar mitts, and flight suits, all sure to keep you toasty warm even on cold days. How cool is that... er, how warm is that?
The Jabiru J170 is the "little brother" to the larger J230 and J250 series also from Jabiru USA. While the larger models evolved from the four seater Jabiru (Australia) kit -- without the two extra seats, of course -- the J170 evolved from the original two seater kit. But it still has plenty of room inside and is easily pulled through the air by the four cylinder, 85-hp Jabiru 2200 engine.
FK Lightplanes longtime designer Peter Funk once again grabbed the attention of many attendees of Aero Friedrichshafen 2013. His all-composite 70%-scale replica created a sensation with its exquisite attention to "fake" detail. Though built entirely of carbon fiber, FK 51 Mustang has more than 100,000 simulated rivets or screwheads. FK manufacturer Rolland Hallam tells us how it was done.
In its next generation model, the Sting S3 brings new sophistication to a Light-Sport Aircraft that was already one of the sleekest and best equipped models available. A leading seller, Sting comes with more standard features than most LSA, including safety-oriented airframe parachute and seat belt airbags. Sting is an all-carbon fiber construction.
Paul Mather is one of the most experienced proprietors in the light aircraft space. At Sebring 2013, we had a look at his impressive turbo-HKS-powered Breese II aircraft that is presently completing its Special LSA approval. We heard more about Paul's business which branches off in several directions of service to light plane enthusiasts. Gaining SLSA approval in 2013 and beyond is more involved than ever and Paul briefly tells us some of the tasks he's undertaken while fitting the Japanese engine.
At the Midwest LSA Expo 2010, we started something new using multiple aircraft and offering their differences and similarities. Here we look at five composite high wing LSA: Sirius TL-3000; Jabiru J-230; CTLS; FK-9 Mark IV; and Navigator 600. If you're in the market for a high wing, this video may help show your choices and help you make a purchase decision.
Breezer Aircraft now offers a kit version of their all-metal Light-Sport Aircraft. The German company relies on support from American importer Mike Z, who shows us around the new money-saving opportunity in the LSA space. Not too many kit LSA are available yet (with a few notable exceptions like the Van's RV-12), but here's another entry.
Paradise has found success from buyers to rise into the top 20 of LSA manufacturers. While the company has changed U.S. distributors, the Brazilian base for this attractive all-metal, yoke-controlled aircraft is healthy and growing. We spoke with the designer and learn more about the large-cabin airplane at Sun 'n Fun 2011.
The energetic folks behind the ApolloFox and the extraordinary Evolution Revo (weight shift trike) are now representing the Columbian-designed Ibis Magic. An all-metal LSA, the Apollo team has elected to fully load it with a large new glass display from MGL, autopilot, emergency airframe parachute, and more. Here's a new one you'll want to examine soon.
We speak with "Lites" Leenhouts, the new head of the Sun 'n Fun event and campus while we all worked the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh airshow. We asked specifically about the upgraded Paradise City area (formerly known as the Ultralight Area and then the Light Plane Area). In the interview "Lites" assures vendors and attendees that they can fly demo flights from Paradise City all day long, even when the main airshow is occurring. Come meet "Lites" and hear his year 'round plans for Sun 'n Fun.
You already know this airplane with the handsome interior, clean lines, and the sexy wingtips. However, you know it as the Gobosh 700E, which billed itself as a Luxury Sport Aircraft. Now with a new U.S. representative, this European aircraft is back in the market after a short hiatus. Built very conventionally in all metal, general aviation pilots will especially like the deluxe Garmin avionics in the panel.
Belite Aircraft bought the design rights for the single place, Part 103 design formerly known as the Kitfox Lite. The Kansas company did more than simply rename the aircraft, however. They also moved from aluminum tubes and wood ribs to carbon fiber elements and made numerous small changes to keep the aircraft with Part 103 weights. The video explains a few of the new options now available.
Storm Rally is offered by Air Elite Aviation, who also recently certified the all-metal, low-wing Century from Europe's Storm Aircraft. The high wing Rally is a composite construction, showing the versatility of this Italian-design aircraft. Gull wing doors make for easy entrance to the comfortable interior.
We've reported on the Zlin Savage iCub in the past. At Aero Friedrichshafen 2013 we captured a video on the Bobber, a sort of custom version of iCub that deliberately lacks an exterior finish but has other special finishing touches. It can be customized in dozens of ways ... much like a "Bobber" motorcycle thereby explaining the choice of names. U.S. importer Bill Canino helps us understand the thinking behind Bobber.
One of the sweetest flying Light-Sport Aircraft is the S-19 Venterra, the third ASTM-standards-meeting LSA from longtime kit producer, Rans. Available in kit or ready-to-fly form, S-19 is a low wing all-metal side-by-side design that will please any owner but can also work well as a flight school trainer. Designer Randy Schlitter has developed a strong and loyal following for his creations, of which this is (you guessed it) #19.
Jan Fridrich is known to all ByDanJohnson.com readers as the man behind the LSA market share statistics that have proven so popular. But his many hours of work on those figures are but a small part of the total effort Jan expends on behalf of the LSA concept - not just in the USA, but all over Europe and with an impact felt around the world. We're pleased to tell you more about Jan Fridrich, a man we hope you appreciate.
In 2012, Rotax brought out their new fuel-injected 912 iS engine. The leading supplier of Light-Sport Aircraft engines worked hard on this computer-controlled engine as they prepared a replacement for the venerable carburetor 912 (which remains in production). We spoke with LSA guru John Hurst who flew a twin-engine AirCam from Sebring Florida to Oshkosh and he tells about flying one of each 912 engine versions.
SeaMax is a Brazilian design that has sold well in Europe. After U.S. partner SeaMax USA helped earn SLSA approval, Americans became aware of this lovely little seaplane. It seems little and looks small, but holds two occupants in comfort and flies with great enthusiasm.
The FK Lightplanes company has released its new Fk9 ELA that more closely meets U.S. LSA regulations but its Mark IV version of the Fk9 is one of Germany's most popular light aircraft. See it in this video atop straight Baumann floats made in Minnesota.
Among many of the world's deluxe trikes, Evolution Trikes' Revo rises to the top of the stack. The all-American-made hot rod is loaded with custom-designed features that should attract the closest examination. Revo also performs like a winner with blazing top speed yet reassuring landing approach speeds. The sophisticated carriage handles rough fields with ease.
We spoke with SportairUSA founder, Bill Canino, who represents a broad and varied line of Light-Sport Aircraft... all of which just happen to begin with the letter "S." We wanted to inform you about all these quality airplanes but we also wanted to ask Bill about all SportUSA's activities including their Arkansas FBO and a flock of interesting accessories items, some of which are available for other brands.
AirBorne has emerged as the leader of the weight shift control ("trike") manufacturers serving the U.S. market. From Australia, the brand has earned both Aussie certification and Special LSA status for multiple models. To tell us more and to describe his TrikeFest fly-in right before Oshkosh each year, we spoke with Mike Hudetz at the Midwest LSA Expo 2010.
(Part 2 of 2) - At Sebring 2010, UltralightNews and Dan Johnson take you on a golf cart Fast Tour of the airplanes on display at the show. With each, we provide some teaser information and offer their website address for you to follow further. Alternatively, you can read more about all these aircraft right here on ByDanJohnson.com, and the odds are we have a video on each of these aircraft as well. All for free... enjoy!
Here is the second installment of our full-length pilot reports, by which we mean we give much more than a quick glance at an aircraft. This time we review the Allegro 2007, the model that is now 100% Made in the USA.
Near the start, some wind noise interfers but this improves.
At Sebring 2013, we found something that we haven't seen before. Oh, we know about gyros and have reported earlier on the AutoGryo company. Here we feature an amphibious float-equipped gyroplane or gyrocopter. Represented in the USA by Soaring Concepts, let's have a look at what UltralightNews has tagged the "gyrophibian." Lot's to learn here; join us.
The amazing, incredible AirCam ... one aircraft you fly in ways you'd never fly in another airplane. How that? AirCam is an open cockpit twin engine airplane that can even take off with only one engine (though don't do this!). AirCam developer Lockwood Aircraft tested the new fuel-injected Rotax iS engine on one side with a carburetor 912 ULS on the other. How did that work? Watch this video while light aircraft expert John Hurst explains his experience flying this aircraft from Florida to Oshkosh.
You might see the Flightstar ultralight in this aircraft and you'd be correct. Now owned by Yuneec International, the design has evolved into the eSpyder, a solely electric-powered aircraft and we believe it is the very first to win certification as an electric airplane (by the German-sanctioned authority called DULV). We speak with Flightstar designer Tom Peghiny about his creation and its systems.
Here's another in our growing series of mini pilot reports where you get some of the benefits of a full-length pilot report in a video format. This time it's the new Solairus from North Wing. Any weight shift enthusiast could love it but for those of us who enjoy soaring flight, here's a dream come true... even more so for those who don't live near mountains or an airpark where they can tow you aloft.
Like many of you, we began admiring this handsome motorglider at AirVenture 2012 where it made a first appearance. How could you not like these lines? After realizing this was another in Randall Fishman's line of electric-powered aircraft, interest grew even more intense. You can watch our earlier video but in this version we find out more about flying the ULS and we see scenes of Randall flying in the new Paradise City at Sun 'n Fun.
ICP gained brand name awareness primarily with their Savannah model, a short take off and landing airplane that sells for a modest price. We've seen it several times but always in tricycle gear. Now at Aero, everyone saw for the first time the new taildragger model from Italy's ICP. We spoke with company leader Loredana Arisio. We also take a look at their new light aircraft engine with questions answered by engine Andrea Caglio.
OK, think you've seen everything? How about a twin-engine powered hang glider that uses a wing designed more than 20 years ago. Yup. Brought back to life by Keith Sharon to the delight of Oshkosh show goers in 2012, we watch the Wasp Wing launch and then talk about its illustrious history and how it is that Keith can fly his dad's wing design in such a singular way. You can't buy this aircraft but I'll bet you enjoy hearing about it.
Bristell is a new Light-Sport Aircraft name and a handsome bird it is. Our video will take you through some of the many carefully considered details but it's worthwhile to know that this is a fifth-generation design. Creator Milan Bristela was deeply involved with the SportCruiser/PiperSport and after leaving that company worked on other similar designs. Come have a look and watch for a mini pilot report on this website.
The BOT Aircraft, represented by in the USA by Doc' Bailey's Renegade Light Sport Aircraft, is new to Americans but it may be embraced by Yankee flyers. Since new owners took over the German-based, they made numerous improvements to a formerly Poland-designed aircraft. Hear all the details on our video including the also-new-to-Americans D Motor, described as a lightweight, modern powerplant.
Looks like a Yak; flies like a Light-Sport. In this video we speak to Thierry Zibi of Canada who has been working on this design for more than five years. At previous Sebring events he had a booth and collected design input but at the 2013 event, he shows a full-size aircraft. A unique all-metal creation that is unique in its appearance, we asked some of the questions you might have.
The Maverick is... well, a maverick among Light-Sport Aircraft. This unique flying car is one of the most unusual entries in a chock-full LSA field yet it stands out in numerous ways. And, amazingly, I-Tec's Maverick has already won Special Light-Sport Aircraft approval. It also leaped ahead of competitors by qualifying as a "kit car," which means it does not need to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Standards. It's so different you'll want to visit their website after you view the video.
Not many people can be called the "father" of anything. That unofficial title has to be limited in its use. Nonetheless, John Moody is widely ascribed to be the Father of Ultralight Flying and I have to agree. I saw John fly a bi-wing hang glider to which he'd added a tiny engine way back in 1975. Even hang gliders were fairly new then and it was years before FAA created the ultralight vehicles we know today. Hear his story in this video and see a couple vintage ultralights he flies.
Skykits - formerly of Canada, now of Paris... Tennessee, that is - has offered a series of Italian STOL designs, which they assembled north of the border. These days a U.S.-based company, Skykits branched off with their own design, this gleaming Rampage. Not only does Rampage look terrific in navy blue over highly-polished aluminum, it offers short-field flying capabilities and more. Come inside and have a look with us.
Sky Arrow was one of the early entrants to the Light-Sport Aircraft world. The Italian producer (abbreviated "triple I") ran into financial trouble, but thanks to steady importer Hansen Air Group, the all-composite Sky Arrow can still be obtained and service continues in the USA. While not as fast as some LSA, Sky Arrow still shows wonderful flying qualities.
Quicksilver is arguably THE most successful light plane manufacturer of all time. More than 15,000 have been delivered to more countries than any brand. Still available for around $20,000 the 40-80 hour kit may be the best organized of any kitplane. The company also makes the GT series and the GT-500 was the first-ever Primary Aircraft to be certified. For open cockpit fun flying at a low cost, Quicksilver is nearly impossible to beat.
One the most proven airframe designs in all of Light-Sport Aviation is the T-211 series from Dallas, Texas-based IndUS Avation. In this video of the Thorpedo -- the more powerful version with the Jabiru 3300 engine -- marketing man Scott Severin helps us visualize the changes to make the airplane better accommodate larger occupants. In addition, they have an instrument-training panel that flight schools might find compelling.
Zenith Aircraft CH-650 is the follow-on to the popular CH-601 with hundreds flying. Company pilot Roger Dubbert tells us about some of the differences between the predecessor and the '650 and he answers our questions on your behalf regarding flight controls, comfort, baggage and more. Come hear the details for this "sedan" of the line complementing the "Sky Jeep" CH-750.
In this update to the SportCruiser, for a time known as the PiperSport, U.S. Sport Aircraft boss Don Ayers tells about the new Classic model. Using standard instrument analog gauges - often referred to a "six pack" - the Classic can be delivered for a modest cost ($120,000 in early 2012). A more deluxe version is available with many bells and whistles.
A Hungarian design from a company called Apollo built this familiar looking aircraft. But now, it is primarily assembled in the USA, in Florda. Apollo Fox may look like a familiar older design but in fact, Apollo Fox has experienced several changes. One of them for example, it a taller vertical tail that helps bring very cooperative handling. The wings fold, too.
Nearly everyone who owns an airplane seeks insurance. Financing to buy a new aircraft makes insurance mandatory. Basically, you cannot fly an airplane without insurance any more than you can fly it without fuel. We spoke with longtime LSA insurance supplier Gregg Ellsworth, who gives us the positive message that he has more than a dozen insurance carriers and three new companies have entered the LSA insurance business recently. Contact AIR.
An exciting announcement at Sebring 2010 brought legacy brand Piper Aircraft into the Light-Sport Aircraft fold. The Vero Beach producer of more than 90,000 airplanes reported it will now distribute the former SportCruiser and they renamed the model as the PiperSport (at the opposite end of their spectrum from the PiperJet). Watch the video to see what Plane & Pilot editor James Lawrence thought of his experience with the newest Piper.
Inside the Bristell Light-Sport Aircraft tent at Sebring 2013, we speak with officials from the Aviation Access Project. Their program? Fractional Ownership. Basically, this is a partnership but with professional management. Why should you be interested? Easy! It makes owning a LSA far less expensive and you do not need to go find a group of partners or administrate the agreements about using and maintaining the airplane.
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