As we bid farewell to 2007, up popped one of America’s top kit producers: Rans. During the year the industry reached number 65 in Special Light-Sport Aircraft approved. Randy Schlitter sent a note saying, “We achieved SLSA status for the S-19LS on December 21st.” He added, “The S-19LS is the first all new aircraft made and designed in the USA specifically for the light sport category to receive SLSA status since the ruling went into effect.” S-19LS relied heavily on CAD/CAM methods. “In fact we never built a prototype; the first aircraft was production tooled,” continued Schlitter. *** S-19LS features the 100-hp Rotax 912ULS, an all-glass cockpit, and a $110,000 introductory price. Since late 2005, Rans has successfully produced the $85,000 S-7LS Courier. Delivery of the first S-19LSs should begin in 10 months, according to the company. If demand warrants, the Hays, Kansas company projects building 50 a year within 12 months, and possibly doubling output later.
Archives for January 2008
Welcome…to 2008 and SLSA #64, the S-Wing
Looking like a CT mated with a SportRider, welcome S-Wing (“Swing,” they say). Bigger Americans should also welcome the widest cabin in the LSA fleet, at a spacious 51.95 inches, a whopping 13 inches wider than a Cessna 172. S-Wing is no CT performer and we’ll see if it handles like the SportRider. But whatever its other qualities and features, size matters and S-Wing takes the lead in interior dimension. Cruise is modest, “typical 100 mph,” stated S-Wing USA. Handling qualities have been compared to a Cessna 150. *** S-Wing USA said the Czech factory began production in 2005 and have 30 flying so far; 17 in Europe, 12 in Russia, and one in the USA. “Current production is 20 per year, but could be increased to 40 with current facilities,” projected John Stickel. The U.S. import team is preparing their program but announced coming options: a radio package with transceiver and transponder; BRS parachute system; and floats.