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Listen to Dan's interview with AvWeb to hear a good general description of the event. (9MB) Next Sebring LSA Expo January 20-23, 2011.
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Sun 'n Fun is home to the LSA Mall hosted by LAMA. See 20 new Light-Sport Aircraft just inside the main public entrance.
Next Sun 'n Fun LSA Mall March 29 to April 3, 2011.
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Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) Video Reviews
ByDanJohnson.com is pleased to add video to our content offerings, thanks to a collaboration with Dave Loveman of UltralightNews.com. We offer nearly 60 video clips shot at major airshows that provide brief overviews (4-8 minutes) of a growing share of all Special Light-Sport Aircraft on the market. It is our goal to include all 100+ Special Light-Sport Aircraft plus other light aircraft that Sport Pilots may fly.
While videos cannot replace full-length pilot reports, they do offer an easy glance at aircraft. And, like many of our other info resources, LSA Videos are free. To see all ByDanJohnson.com content on a brand and model of Light-Sport Aircraft, click the identification appearing above each video image.
To see all videos listed alphabetically, click to turn on the "Alphabetic Index" just below the top video showing.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
If you are a conventional general aviation pilot used to Cessna aircraft, you'll probably love the Paradise P-1. It looks somewhat similar, has room to carry bulky items and flies like most pilots expect. Dealing with the U.S. representatives is a great experience and they take care of all import duties for this handsome Brazilian LSA.
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.
Belite Aircraft bought the design rights for the single place, Part 103 design former 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Brave high wing models. Based on their natural handling, good performance, and long company history, Eaglet is worth a closer look.
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.
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, videographer Dave Loveman interviews Dan Johnson, the president and chairman of the board for LAMA. Click obtain more information to get further details including membership.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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