First, a caveat: While FAA is communicating some of the 
Michael Stock said, "In general, all propellers which are not in-flight adjustable are a compromise between take-off and climb performance (power) and cruise flight (speed, endurance). They cannot work at maximum efficiency in both flight regimes."
He added, "Propeller thrust for take-off and climb can be up to 30% higher if the propeller blade angle is perfectly adjusted at all times."
The problem is that FAA, by regulation in place since 2004, only allows a ground-adjustable prop. The agency's thinking 15 years ago revolved around "safe, simple, easy to fly" intended for all aircraft in the LSA category. That philosophy has not changed; they continue to repeat the line as a guide to their proposed regulation.
However, a ground adjustable prop can be done poorly. Mistakes can be made if the person making the adjustment does not have training or experience.
In mid-October, FAA provided another update to the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association. It speaks to bigger — and faster — flying machines ahead for Light-Sport Aircraft. Let’s look at one aspect of the regulation-in-progress. First, a caveat: While FAA is communicating some of the ideas they are planning for LSA this is an effort of rule writing likely to see more changes. What LAMA reports to its members and what we provide here is not certain …although it remains well supported at the top of FAA. Even higher in the federal hierarchy, the Department of Transportation recently gave a go-ahead to continue their work. Not all currently planned ideas may survive either the internal debate nor the public comment period. Single Lever Control In-Flight Adjustable Prop This phrase, Single Lever Control, communicates two things: (1) that the system on the airplane seen in the video adjusts the prop to optimal pitch for the phase of flight, and (2) that the system does so based on the pilot’s movement of the throttle combined with its own information about parameters of the aircraft at that time.
Joe knows his light seaplanes. He’s built at least one Searey and he used to fly it daily from Spruce Creek to a lake in Tavares, Florida where Progressive Aerodyne manufactures Searey. For a couple years, Joe was CEO of the operation making him highly aware of this niche of airplanes.
Searey — The most established of the collection is this veteran design from 
AirCam — The lone floatplane of the group is also the only twin engine of the group yet this larger-than-life airplane still qualifies as a light aircraft, easily so. Given its modest weight, the presence of two Rotax 9-series engines on this kit makes it a formidable performer but one that can use that capability at slow speeds, making the airplane an absolute delight for the kind of low-elevation flying that many others aircraft should not attempt. Around 200 are flying. Kit builder 
Aero Adventure — The Aventura model, seen here in its new S-17 configuration, dates back as far as the Searay but because of ownership changes the design also evolved uniquely. Originally known as the Buccaneer, it became of the Aventura when Carlos Pereyra added his exceptional fiberglass skills to the hull. Current owner, Alex Rolinski, has taken the design into the CAD age and beefed up its performance. The S-17 model boasts a 117-horsepower AeroMomentum Suzuki-based engine and attractive options; the package has been attracting strong interest for 
Super Petrel — One of the most unique entries is the bi-wing Super Petrel LS from 
Icon A5 — Thanks to sophisticated, California-style marketing, 
Adam Yang, the CEO of 
Adam expressed, "I am grateful for all the people who supported the endeavor to make Searey a strong manufacturer of the fun, practical and safe aircraft including employees, customers, contracted professionals, distributors, suppliers, local government officials, pilots, instructors, Searey enthusiasts and their family members. Without everybody’s efforts and selfless support, it would have been absolutely impossible to achieve what we have today."
Adam no longer has an ownership position of Progressive Aerodyne and will take a break before moving on to his next endeavor. However, he added, "I will keep flying the wonderful Searey."
New CEO Nicholson will lead the company to the next level of success. "Geoff has an aerospace engineering degree with years of experience as an executive of operations in the aviation industry," reported Adam. "He holds a commercial rating, multi-engine rating, and was a CFI."
So long, Adam. Best of luck in your new adventures!
