As we prepare for a new year of Light-Sport Aircraft, companies are ramping up production to assure greater supplies of aircraft. Leading companies have each claimed 2005 deliveries of 20-40 aircraft but are forecasting double to triple that number for 2006. Aircraft such as the Jabiru and Allegro — plus others yet to formally announce their plans — bring component parts to the USA for final assembly complementing U.S. production by companies such as IndUS Aviation (see photo), Legend (building a new plant), and RANS. The new year should be an exciting one, indeed. As the year closes, I’d like to add my voice to those thanking LAMA founder and president, Larry Burke, for his decades of work to nuture the industry organization. He is stepping back — becoming Chairman Emeritus — while myself and Tom Gunnarson take over the reins. THANKS, Larry…for a job very well done!
Archives for December 2005
Earthstar Soaring Gull 2000; Light Motorglider
An old friend just brought home an airplane I’ve long admired. Bob Chase of California’s Perris Valley airport is the proud new owner of Soaring Gull 2000 No. 1 from Earthstar Aircraft designer Mark Beierle. Though its wingspan is only 28 feet (think: easy storage), Soaring Gull 2000 manages a 16:1 glide that will assure you can stay aloft on most days with decent thermal or ridge lift. The Gull 2000 single seater fuselage is fitted with a wing two bays (~ 2 ft.) longer than Earthstar’s two seat Odyssey. Because the airplane is small and efficient, the 133 square foot wing has plenty of area; she is said to soar quite well. My favorite old Cloud Dancer had 16:1 performance (on 40-ft. wings of the same area); I managed two hours engine off for every powered hour. I loved soaring it and I look forward to accepting Bob’s offer to fly his.