One aircraft I’d waited anxiously to fly is the Sinus from Pipistrel in Slovenia. Forget the weird-sounding name (they say to pronounce it “seen-us”) because this is one impressive flying machine. I first saw it in France four years ago and my pilot report will appear in the October 2005 issue of Ultralight FLYING!. You’ll want to read that article for lots more info but the operative performance parameter is a 28-to-1 glide! I had the good fortune to fly a tricycle-gear Sinus for 45 minutes with the engine off, as it’s designed to do. Wonderful! For more info on Sinus and their other oddly named Virus aircraft, click here.
Archives for August 2005
Earthstar and Thunder Gull Go Global
For years, many pilots have admired the Thunder Gull line of light aircraft from Earthstar Aircraft. However, obtaining one in a short time has been difficult because Earthstar remains a small company focused on groundbreaking developments by talented owner/designer, Mark Beierle. Avicom in Israel recently announced a venture to fully manufacture the Light-Sport Aircraft models Mark has elected to pursue. I know the fellows in Israel and this looks to be an excellent joining of aviation talents and enthusiasm. It should introduce more Earthstar aircraft to aviators in the U.S. and around the world.
Sebring Expo 2005 Will Be Huge for LSA
Last year the Sebring (FL) Airport broke new ground with their U.S. Sport Aviation Expo at the end of October. Expo is on again for 2005 and will have the largest collection of Light-Sport Aircraft anywhere. Organizer Bob Wood reports, “I expect over 130 aircraft on display.” By any measure, that deserves a “Wow!” Sebring was also named GA Airport of the Year and just signed a deal to be the home of the new Cub Air Academy. The latter is a well-funded effort to introduce more folks to flying LSA in a structured environment. I highly recommend the “Sebring Expo.” If you can come, look me up…