Sun ‘n Fun Day 5 …Wrap Up — Cub and Mother; Sopwith Camel Replica, Father of Ultralight Aircraft

By Dan Johnson || April 9, 2019 1 Comment (Edit)

Sun 'n Fun is over. While staff, tent vendors and more have plenty of work to do, customers and vendors have all vacated the area, scattering off across the USA as they return to base. Some have a new airplane. Numerous vendors reported solid sales during the show. Pilots liked what they saw and a good economy is powering activity. I will follow up with a show summary soon. Following I have three more short stories. However, watch for dozens of new videos from Light Sport and Ultralight Flyer on YouTube and I will have further reporting from material gathered at Sun 'n Fun 2019. MOAC — "Tweety" got mine and lots of well-deserved attention (photo), being the very first airplane American Legend produced, back in 2005. The original aircraft was on display at Sun 'n Fun. Since the company has since registered 226 aircraft, Tweety launched quite a good run.

However, it was the Mother Of All Cubs that commandeered the focus of many show attendees visiting the American Legend exhibit. This variation on their theme has several wow factors. A handsome young fellow sat in the airplane as I approached. He turned out to be Luke, son of American Legend boss, Darin Hart. I looked again to see he was seated in the third seat. A strut maintains structure in front of the third seat but it removes easily with quick pins. Luke scrambled out of the third seat easily. "It's actually easier than entering the front seat of MOAC," said Luke. Those seats do more. They can fold forward and with some securing anchors, can haul a different payload. The seating ties in with a whole new "turtle deck" as Darin called it. Not your usual turtle deck, this six-foot-long opening runs from the trailing edge of the wing halfway to the tail. The turtle deck opens wide enough to allow an injured passenger to be loaded head first into MOAC. For three persons or an air ambulance, MOAC has plenty of power to carry about 1,000 pounds of useful load thanks to the largest Titan X370 producing 195 horsepower. Darin said climb performance is so strong, he plans to enter three AOPA regional event STOL competitions and believes MOAC can do well. "It's pretty easy to manage the takeoff to win," Darin noted. "It's landing really short that demands high pilot skills," Sopwith Camel — Robert Baslee is one impressive creator of old-time replica WWI aircraft. Every year for 30 consecutive years Robert has brought a new design to Sun 'n Fun. For a movie studio shoot one of his replicas was designed, built, and delivered to the movie set just 30 days after the studio's request. Think about that!

The movie people saw the precision of his replicas. These are vintage aircraft built as closely as possible to their original but using modern materials and techniques. Under the authentic looking exterior is a welded steel frame. Aerodrome supplies these elements for kit builders. Movie studios may stimulate a design, by Baslee's creations have also enabled a following that loves the vintage look. Of course, the guns in front of the pilot were not real …but they looked it. British military engineers invented a mechanical system to stop the guns from firing when a propeller blade was passing in front of the barrel. See their whole flock in this brochure (pdf); some are Part 103 ultralight compliant. Keep up with Aerodromes constant innovation on their Facebook page. Father of Ultralights — John Moody is a figurehead in the ultralight aircraft world. Going back into the early 1970s, he was one of the very first to popularize what would later become known as ultralights. Because of his vision and his success at showcasing what such aircraft could do, he acquired the label "The Father of Ultralights."

At Sun 'n Fun, as he has so often done, John flew an Easy Riser much like his original from 45 years ago. A mere 15 horsepower, shifting weight fore and aft to change pitch, no landing gear, no instrumentation needed. John developed an airshow routine where, for example, an angry bill collector so badly wants to bring down John that he comes to the airfield with his shotgun. Bang! A shot is fired. Off drops one of John's wheels! Bang, bang! Two more are gone and John's plane no longer has any landing gear. How will he land, the crowd wonders? No problem, as he'd swoop down and smoothly touch down using only his legs. These days John uses his full-castoring undercarriage so he no longer needs to land on his feet. Landing gear or legs, it is always inspiring to see John fly. He typically joins in when the powered paragliders fly at the end of the evening when winds calm. Ah, Sun 'n Fun …where else can you see things like MOAC, a Sopwith Camel and end the day watching the world's light aircraft fly?

Sun ‘n Fun is over. While staff, tent vendors and more have plenty of work to do, customers and vendors have all vacated the area, scattering off across the USA as they return to base. Some have a new airplane. Numerous vendors reported solid sales during the show. Pilots liked what they saw and a good economy is powering activity. I will follow up with a show summary soon. Following I have three more short stories. However, watch for dozens of new videos from Light Sport and Ultralight Flyer on YouTube and I will have further reporting from material gathered at Sun ‘n Fun 2019. MOAC — “Tweety” got mine and lots of well-deserved attention (photo), being the very first airplane American Legend produced, back in 2005. The original aircraft was on display at Sun ‘n Fun. Since the company has since registered 226 aircraft, Tweety launched quite a good run.

Sun ‘n Fun Day 4 — Rans Outbound Tricycle, Amphibious Trikes, Electric Powered Paraglider

By Dan Johnson || April 6, 2019 2 Comments (Edit)

Sun 'n Fun streaks on with Blue Angels and Stearmans cracking the air. Exhibits are active. People are shopping for the right airplane. Strong crowds were present at peak times. Opening day may have set a record. Generally vendors and customers seemed to be in good spirits. Recreational aviation looks healthy. As I spoke with vendors, one comment I heard repeatedly — freely offered but never requested — was "The economy is good. People have money to spend." This statement came up often enough to give it weight. Those of you shopping at home can have a little fun with PlaneFinder 2.0. Clicking or tapping a few categories will help you zero in on the best choices for you. Then you can click to articles or videos about them. Outbound — Rans has enjoyed quite a run with their newest, the S-21 Outbound. It is a handsome taildragger with performance to make STOL designs jealous.

The trouble is, for the last two generations of pilots, nearly all were instructed in a tricycle gear airplane. Most have also heard stories about ground loops causing damage and hurting pride. They stick to tricycle gear and given their training, that's probably appropriate. For Sun 'n Fun 2019, Rans brought Outbound in tricycle gear. Despite what many might have expected the configuration looks good. The nose wheel doesn't affect handling or performance; "it flies the same as the tail dragger," said Randy Schlitter. Outbound can be powered by a Rotax 912 with 100 horsepower or up to a Titan X340 with 180 horsepower. Randy said the climb with the bigger engine is impressive (850 to 1,500 fpm) but fuel usage rises noticeably (from 5.5 to 7 gph, and pilot real-life experience may result an even greater gap). Takeoff is also fast with the big engine: just over 300 feet to leave the runway and just under 400 to land …in skilled hands, of course. However, interestingly Rans quotes essentially the same launch and landing values for the Rotax 912.

With the tricycle gear, you can have robust but smaller tires or you can opt for the tricycle version of bush gear; doing so gives greater prop clearance for larger diameters. All outbounds can go both ways, taildragger or tri-gear. It takes about four hours to swap out the hardware but the airframe is built to accommodate either configuration. More Outbound info (pdf) for either configuration. See video below. Amphib Trikes — Michael Percy and his Airtime Aircraft enterprise deliver a most agreeably priced seaplane, a combination of Krueger floats and a trike carriage built by his organization. Amphibious weight shift trikes are not common, but I have flown a few and they work reasonably well. In fact the way a trike leaves and arrives back on the water seems to jibe with the posture of a trike. If you watch a wheeled trike meet runway, you will observe that the main gear always touch first; the carriage is suspended under the wing in that way to facilitate rotation for lift off.

Airtime has the trike carriage attached optimally to the floats to complement this quality of trikes and the results are good. I watched as Michael cycled the gear up and down (look for a mini video as soon as I find time). It's a remarkably fast moving system and appears very simple. This system is used in two configurations on both the company's aircraft. Airtime Aircraft offers two trike models. One is the Cygnet that became a Special LSA ten years ago. It has seen refinements but is essentially the same aircraft, probably because it works well. Explorer 103 is a legitimate Part 103 aircraft using the added weight FAA permits under guidance. To look at them, though, the two models appear much the same aircraft except for the extra seat and added structure to accommodate the 912 engine on Cygnet. More Airtime amphibious trike info. Electric PPG — One of the rigs I was most impressed with was an electric powered paraglider (PPG). The one I examined was for foot launch but I was told it would work well on a lightweight wheeled as are common in PPGs.

I learned of this from Planet PPG owner, Paul Czarnecki, also a popular voice in Paradise City this year along with Stephanie Bensinger. These two did great work announcing activities in the area. The electric PPG was a creation of John Magdic in conjunction with Open PPG. This is a modern-style open-source project (think: Linux operating system) where you can purchase components to make your own electric PPG. How successful could this be? According to information provided to Sun 'n Fun judges, Magdic's four motor system can produce 165 pounds of thrust, comparable to the most powerful gasoline PPG units and substantially more than the average PPG. Magdic's Open PPG propulsion system has 30 pounds of batteries that can provide 30 minutes of power. If you want more you could double the four to eight batteries and get an hour's flying time but your rig will then be of similar weight to a gas-powered PPG. For many, 30 minutes of flying time may be sufficient. Cost, according to Czarnecki, is about $5,000 for the electric power frame, $3,000 for a wing, and if you want it, a wheeled carriage is about $1,500 making a full price for a complete aircraft less than $10,000. That's affordable flying!

Here is our video on Rans Outbound in taildragger configuration but note this is the same airplane seen at Sun 'n Fun 2019 in tricycle gear. https://youtu.be/VxUc0Z2ixCY

Sun ‘n Fun streaks on with Blue Angels and Stearmans cracking the air. Exhibits are active. People are shopping for the right airplane. Strong crowds were present at peak times. Opening day may have set a record. Generally vendors and customers seemed to be in good spirits. Recreational aviation looks healthy. As I spoke with vendors, one comment I heard repeatedly — freely offered but never requested — was “The economy is good. People have money to spend.” This statement came up often enough to give it weight. Those of you shopping at home can have a little fun with PlaneFinder 2.0. Clicking or tapping a few categories will help you zero in on the best choices for you. Then you can click to articles or videos about them. Outbound — Rans has enjoyed quite a run with their newest, the S-21 Outbound. It is a handsome taildragger with performance to make STOL designs jealous.

Sun ‘n Fun Day 3 — Lightning Fast Kit Aircraft, LSA Regulation Questions, and a Tribute

By Dan Johnson || April 4, 2019 6 Comments (Edit)

You wanna go fast? Of course you do. What pilot doesn't want to go fast?

Lightning Fast

Now, ultralight pilots (me, for instance) will go on enthusiastically about the beauty of flying slowly, of drifting leisurely over the landscape at a "human speed" that allows enough time to enjoy the expanse of an aerial view of your surroundings. Open cockpit flying adds to the joy facilitated by low airspeeds. Yet the allure of going fast is great, zipping over the countryside. I get that and when contemplating a cross country trip of any real distance, fast cannot be too fast. In addition to a higher TAS, we all yearn for a tailwind that will raise our speed by another 20 mph. Arion Aircraft boss Nick Otterback also feels that desire to fly fast. Along with his since-retired but longtime business partner Pete Krotje, Nick created the dashing, sleek and smooth Lightning, first offered as a kit and a compliant Light-Sport Aircraft.

Lightning has enjoyed and continues to execute a good run but like many designers, Nick felt the design could handle more speed. He set out to bump the numbers by installing a Titan X340 with 180 horsepower. This triggered other changes such as a new cowl to accommodate the powerplant. "Our Lightning XS kit has a redesigned forward fuselage structure that gives the builder the option to choose engines up to 180 horsepower," said Nick. "Taller landing gear for bigger props, bigger brakes, and 20 gallon fuel tanks are among some of the features of this new kit." How fast does Lightning XS go? Testing is not complete yet; it recently took to the air. However, Arion is calculating 165 knots (190 mph) TAS at 8,500 feet density altitude at full gross. Climb is a stunning 2,000 fpm. Of course Lightning XS is not a Light-Sport Aircraft and will require a Private or better certificate plus a medical.

Stronger Climb–Efficient Cruise–Greater Safety

Rotax, Searey builder Progressive Aerodyne, and RS Technology continue work to acquire knowledge and data about what's called Single Lever Control (SLC). They've been at it a couple years or more and RS Tech is pleased with initial results. Since I first interviewed Michael Stock about this on video, the team has changed to Rotax's newest 915iS engine that supplies 135 horsepower. Combined with the adjustable prop, this becomes an enthusiastic performer. The beauty of the system, in my mind, is that it is so simple. A literal single lever makes the pilot workload no more difficult than a conventional throttle on a fixed pitch prop yet it can deliver increased performance to shorten takeoff runs without sacrificing cruise at altitude. This is a win-win safety argument that FAA recognizes. In our discussions with top executives with the agency they proved surprisingly and pleasantly receptive to considering SLC as they rework the SP/LSA regulation. That's not a guarantee but the odds seem promising. Nonetheless, that regulation is still years away — how many years is an unanswerable question at this point but the wheels of progress are in motion (see an earlier article on this subject). In talking about regulation change, lots of folks are still asking about a speculated weight increase. Yes, one is definitely coming but not to a specific number. A formula will develop gross weight, and no, the final version of that formula is not yet established.

Lightning Bug 2 Encore Appearance

In the LSA–Sport Pilot kit aircraft–ultralight space, we had a rising star, an emerging talent, and one of the nicest people I've met. His name was Brian Austein. Sadly, this bright young man succumbed to cancer and died since last Sun 'n Fun …a terrible loss. However, his unique legacy lives on in Paradise City in 2019.

Brian's last full-sized project, the Lightning Bug 2 (the version number is mine not his), was quite remarkable. LB2 was a 150-pound empty weight aircraft — ponder that weight for a minute — powered by two model aircraft engines. It cost Brian a mere $3,000 out-of-pocket and he produced a man-carrying flying machine. I still find that story rather magical and his one-of-a-kind aircraft design to be utterly a fresh creation. I've never seen anything like LB2 and I'm not sure I ever will again. Catch this video interview with Brian about Lightning Bug. Given his prodigious design ability and inventiveness I found it fun to see some of Brian's other ideas (photo) that he worked on until he died. He bubbled over with ideas as I interviewed him and he wrote from the hospital of another new project in this same ultra-affordable aircraft space. R.I.P. Brian…

You wanna go fast? Of course you do. What pilot doesn’t want to go fast? Lightning Fast Now, ultralight pilots (me, for instance) will go on enthusiastically about the beauty of flying slowly, of drifting leisurely over the landscape at a “human speed” that allows enough time to enjoy the expanse of an aerial view of your surroundings. Open cockpit flying adds to the joy facilitated by low airspeeds. Yet the allure of going fast is great, zipping over the countryside. I get that and when contemplating a cross country trip of any real distance, fast cannot be too fast. In addition to a higher TAS, we all yearn for a tailwind that will raise our speed by another 20 mph. Arion Aircraft boss Nick Otterback also feels that desire to fly fast. Along with his since-retired but longtime business partner Pete Krotje, Nick created the dashing, sleek and smooth Lightning, first offered as a kit and a compliant Light-Sport Aircraft.

Sun ‘n Fun Day 2 — As Summertime Approaches, Light-Sport Seaplanes Draw Interest

By Dan Johnson || April 3, 2019 3 Comments (Edit)

Aero Adventure Aventura II

Seaplane flying is a specialty within aviation but it is one that has steady appeal and develops passionate aviators. I prefer to modify that "gear-up landing" line to… "There are pilots who love seaplane flying and there are those will love it." Be forewarned: Once you touch your seaplane* or floatplane* to the water, it may forever change you. If you think I'm being too dramatic, you probably haven't flown off the water. Great, so it's magical to see the countryside from a few hundred feet up. Even better, enjoy flying low across the clear, blue, warm waters of the Bahamas. Examine the shoreline of a big lake in a way you'd never do in a landplane. Compared to airports, seaplane pilots have many times more lakes or rivers able to handle a landing. All are fair game in an emergency and many U.S. waterways will permit normal water operations.

ICP Savannah on floats

Are you convinced yet? Water flying does require earning a Seaplane rating for Private or better pilots flying a certified floatplane or seaplane. However, for Sport Pilots or those using higher level certificates to exercise the privileges of Sport Pilot, only training plus a logbook endorsement is needed. Purchase cost of a seaplane can be, well… breathtaking. If you or someone you know has ever priced a general aviation aircraft on floats, you're aware they can be quite expensive. Flying from water demands a more robust airframe and amphibians add weight and complexity. Finding a qualified flight school and instructors with seaplane trainers and insurance for commercial training operations is another challenge although organizations like the dedicated Seaplane Pilots Association (SPA) can help overcome some of the preceding obstacles.

Just Aircraft Highlander on floats

All these facts conspire to make seaplane flying less common than it ought to be. Light-Sport Aircraft and Sport Pilot kits to the rescue. While still more costly than landline equivalents, LSA seaplanes carry price tags that are a fraction of certified aircraft on floats and they likely outperform their counterparts in general aviation. Even SPA — the water flying organization that has been more focused on certified floatplanes — is now flying a loaned Searey for a year or so to learn more about this segment of their community (photo). Here at Sun 'n Fun 2019, we saw two new entries in the LSA or Sport Pilot kit space. Italian manufacturer ICP representative (and airline pilot) Walter della Nebbia presented a bright red STOL Savannah on white composite amphibious floats. The floats were designed and built by an Italian organization (Scuola Italiano Volo) with many years of experience providing seaplane-only flight instruction. "He (the designer) is very knowledgeable," said Walter. "These are very good floats with lots of experience."

Progressive Aerodyne's Searey on loan to the Seaplane Pilots Association

Just Aircraft showed a Highlander on aluminum floats built by the owner from a Zenair float kit. Just has become known for their SuperSTOL model with the jaw-dropping performance. Highlander is the company's original LSA success story (#33 on our SLSA List) that, when significantly modified for special use, became SuperSTOL. Besides these two entries the LSA industry offers several more choices of float-equipped land planes plus other boat-hulled seaplanes such as Progressive Aerodyne's Searey, Aero Adventure's Aventura, Seamax Aircraft's SeaMax, Vickers Aircraft's coming Wave, and others. In the days ahead I'll also provide some coverage for a very affordable amphibious weight shift trike, Airtime Aircraft's Cygnet, built right here in Florida. While waterborne aircraft carry a higher price tags than land-only airplanes, seaplane flying has never been more affordable.

* My definition of these terms is that a "seaplane" has a boat hull where a "floatplane" is straight or amphibious floats added to a landline. The terms are not used as official designations. Home page sunset view over Seamax LSA seaplane by Randee Laskewitz

Seaplane flying is a specialty within aviation but it is one that has steady appeal and develops passionate aviators. I prefer to modify that “gear-up landing” line to… “There are pilots who love seaplane flying and there are those will love it.” Be forewarned: Once you touch your seaplane* or floatplane* to the water, it may forever change you. If you think I’m being too dramatic, you probably haven’t flown off the water. Great, so it’s magical to see the countryside from a few hundred feet up. Even better, enjoy flying low across the clear, blue, warm waters of the Bahamas. Examine the shoreline of a big lake in a way you’d never do in a landplane. Compared to airports, seaplane pilots have many times more lakes or rivers able to handle a landing. All are fair game in an emergency and many U.S. waterways will permit normal water operations. Are you convinced yet?

Sun ‘n Fun Day 1 — Affordable Aircraft: CGS Hawk Ultra, Evolution RevX, Kolb Trifly, Thatcher CX5

By Dan Johnson || April 2, 2019 4 Comments (Edit)

Videoman Dave and I never left Paradise City's exhibits in our first day of video interviews. Yet we found several airplanes worth reviewing that fit comfortably into the affordable aviation space this website reports. Hawk Ultra — Despite some speculative rumors, all is well with the dual CGS Hawk project involving two-seat Hawk specialist and primary components fabricator Terry Short paired with the father and son team of Bob and LB Santom handling the single place Hawk 103, Hawk Ultra and Hawk Plus. Hawks developed a strong following in the U.S. and several countries with more than 2,000 flying. As the design emerged in 1983, it was only single place. Once Part 103 aircraft were growing and need for a two-seat trainer became apparent, the Hawk Arrow series debuted in several variations. With one or two seats, Hawks won a place in the hearts of many aviators and that continues unabated to this day. In our interview with Bob, he related that the example pictured nearby flew into Paradise City's grass strip and they are ready to launch into production of the modestly-priced aircraft. RevX — Evolution Trikes has now broadened their line to four trike models: Revo, the top-of-the-line deluxe cruiser; Rev, a Part 103 entry that folds up compactly and securely for trailer transport; Revolt, the tough two-seater to bridge the expanse between Revo and Rev; and now, the newest, RevX, a powerful single seater. Even with most desirable features delivered as part of the base package, RevX is a relative bargain at around $33,000. Multiple positive qualities suggest RevX could be a big seller but perhaps the real value is how well it performs. A Rotax 582 with 65 horsepower gives RevX a very short launch roll and steep climbs but it may be the smaller 28-foot-span, 12 square meter wing with its higher wing loading that leaves Evolution factory pilots grinning from ear to ear after a flight. Given its weight with the beefy Rotax, RevX must be delivered as Experimenter Amateur Built but Evolution offers a Builder Assist operation to help do the job quicker and better. Trifly — As is the case for other producers of Part 103 aircraft, Kolb Aircraft boss Bryan Melborn reported strong business with Firefly, the long established airplane manufacturer's leading model. Like nearly all Kolb Aircraft, Firefly is a taildragger …although the company's models represent some of the easiest-to-handle taildraggers you'll find in all of aviation. Cool as taildraggers may be, the fact remains that most pilots trained in the last couple generations have overwhelmingly learned to fly in tricycle gear aircraft. Most have zero experience with taildraggers but they've heard stories about ground looping and other challenges of handling taildragger designs. To address potential customers telling him they were unsure about their success with a taildragger, Bryan engineered a tricycle-gear version of Firefly. He inventively calls it Trifly. In truth Trifly also comes with a tailwheel; Bryan reports you can definitely perform a three-point landing (main gear touching down in concert with the tailwheel) in Firefly. Or, if you prefer, land Trifly like any Cessna; that works well, too. Kolb's Trifly can be delivered as a kit or ready-to-fly direct from the manufacturer. CX5 — From dedicated designer David Thatcher comes an established and familiar design, the Thatcher CX models 4 and 5. Displayed at Sun 'n Fun was the tandem seating CX5. Using Revmaster's 85-horsepower VW-derived-but-further-developed four stroke engine, Thatcher CX5 can get in the air for a sum in the $30,000 range. Able to hold two large Americans and fly better than 100 mph very economically, this proven design has attracted enthusiastic supporters. Carefully designed to be an easy build, CX5 rewards the builder with an elegant wing featuring a tapered, upward-angled outer wing with dual taper trailing edge and inboard tapering ailerons. Lastly, while we did not interview U-Fly-It boss Dennis Carley, a conversation with him brought the news that his DeLand, Florida company continues to run at full capacity building bargain-priced Aerolite 103s. Contrary to so-called conventional wisdom, the highly affordable world of Part 103 ultralight aircraft appears to be thriving. Budget conscious pilots, rejoice! Home page sunset photo beyond the LSA Mall photo taken by Randee Laskewitz.

Videoman Dave and I never left Paradise City’s exhibits in our first day of video interviews. Yet we found several airplanes worth reviewing that fit comfortably into the affordable aviation space this website reports. Hawk Ultra — Despite some speculative rumors, all is well with the dual CGS Hawk project involving two-seat Hawk specialist and primary components fabricator Terry Short paired with the father and son team of Bob and LB Santom handling the single place Hawk 103, Hawk Ultra and Hawk Plus. Hawks developed a strong following in the U.S. and several countries with more than 2,000 flying. As the design emerged in 1983, it was only single place. Once Part 103 aircraft were growing and need for a two-seat trainer became apparent, the Hawk Arrow series debuted in several variations. With one or two seats, Hawks won a place in the hearts of many aviators and that continues unabated to this day.

Sun ‘n Fun 2019 …About to Open — Here’s a Sneak Peek of Two Creations

By Dan Johnson || April 1, 2019 Leave a Comment (Edit)

What's new at Sun 'n Fun 2019? Again, as I've observed for previous airshows, it appears impossible for all exhibitors to be ready by gates-open tomorrow, Tuesday April 2nd, 2019. As usual, it will somehow, magically come together and most attendees will be none the wiser. Early arrivers know the truth of which I speak. I have knowledge ahead of the fact and I promised not to leak the announcements. Sun 'n Fun visitors can check out these new machines for themselves. I am aware of two new aircraft and they could hardly be more different.

Revo, Rev, Revolt, and _____?

In this paparazzi glimpse, you can kinda, sorta tell this is an Evolution trike, but what the heck is it?!

One is a new weight shift trike from the most deluxe maker of such rigs, Evolution Trikes. This Tampa Bay-area, Florida company based at Zephyr Hills airport has been a fountain of development since its start. How long has that been? Ten years as it turns out, and to celebrate, they're bringing their latest. Way back when, I wrote this full-length pilot report about Larry Mednick's first offering at Sun 'n Fun 2011, only a couple years after their original model was conceived. In my article I was exceptionally pleased with the trike's development. I wasn't the only one. Judges awarded Revo the Grand Champion Light Sport Aircraft at the 2011 Sun 'n Fun airshow. Since that colorful splash, the company has introduced their Rev (single place Part 103-capable), Revolt (two place ruggedized model) and now coming is RevX. The lone, fuzzy, distorted image that appears to have been captured by a plane paparazzi may give Evolution fans the smallest of hints (and others almost nothing) so you'll have to come to Sun 'n Fun to see for yourself. Of course, I'll report more fully here.

Now Streaming Your Way

The other fresh entry at Sun 'n Fun 2019 is one almost no Americans have seen and not to many Europeans. I saw it at Aero as did a few other Yanks, but to 99% of interested aviators, here's one out of the blue sky yonder.

Welcome to Stream, a carbon fiber, low wing, tandem seating, retractable gear lightplane. Stream is clearly part of the TL family but is completely different than the preceding two models — that Americans already know. Sting has been their lead example through four iterations of the sleek low wing design: Sting-S2-S3-S4. Years ago Sting was offered with retractable gear but then came Light-Sport Aircraft rules so fixed gear became the norm. Later came the similarly built but high wing, yoke-controlled Sirius. Now, Stream… TL Ultralight has been active in the LSA world for many years and was first represented by SportairUSA. At Sun 'n Fun 2019 three very different models of Czech Republic manufacturer, TL Ultralight are on display near (and in) the LSA Mall. A big difference: the large TL display was mounted by newer representative, TL Aircraft USA, run by Michal Margolien.

The U.S. based company, with roots in the origin country of Czech Republic, is displaying a Sting, a turbo Sting, the company's high wing Sirius, and Stream. The example was built as it must be for the American market as an Experimental Amateur Built model. A husband and wife team just return from a month in Czech Republic where they fulfilled all requirements for FAA approval. It is their airplane on display.

Starting Tomorrow (TU-4/2/19)

Come see the new Evolution, the new Stream and who knows what else at Sun 'n Fun 2019! You can visit a whole flock of Light-Sport Aircraft, Sport Pilot kits, and the engines that power them in the LAMA LSA Mall. Catch the free Rotax XPress and see for yourself.

What’s new at Sun ‘n Fun 2019? Again, as I’ve observed for previous airshows, it appears impossible for all exhibitors to be ready by gates-open tomorrow, Tuesday April 2nd, 2019. As usual, it will somehow, magically come together and most attendees will be none the wiser. Early arrivers know the truth of which I speak. I have knowledge ahead of the fact and I promised not to leak the announcements. Sun ‘n Fun visitors can check out these new machines for themselves. I am aware of two new aircraft and they could hardly be more different. Revo, Rev, Revolt, and _____? One is a new weight shift trike from the most deluxe maker of such rigs, Evolution Trikes. This Tampa Bay-area, Florida company based at Zephyr Hills airport has been a fountain of development since its start. How long has that been? Ten years as it turns out, and to celebrate, they’re bringing their latest.

The Little Light-Sport Aircraft Seaplane that Could, and Does… and Will

By Dan Johnson || March 31, 2019 5 Comments (Edit)

Most Americans know the childhood story about the "Little Engine that Could," a tale of determination, working against long odds and succeeding despite them. I think that relates to SeaMax. Visually, SeaMax looks small, low, and compact compared to some LSA seaplanes. Taking nothing away from the others, SeaMax appears ready to fill a need for something sportier, speedier. Despite its small size, SeaMax delivers comfort and capability. Learn more in my flight evaluation video below, but at Sun 'n Fun 2019 starting in just a few days, SeaMax will be present with their staff to address more inquiries.

Perhaps even more important, SeaMax Aircraft will have a airplane in the LSA Mall that will give demonstration flights to interested buyers. The flying will be done by Russ Miley with whom I flew for the Video Pilot Report (see below). I found him a wonderful instructor — I had asked him to treat me as a student. He was calm, knowledgeable, and clearly at one with SeaMax. If you are looking at a LSA seaplane and if you are headed to Sun 'n Fun, don't pass up this opportunity. In my experience — about five hours total flying time in SeaMax — I came to regard the airplane as a high performer in the LSA seaplane space. This comes partly as the airplane is light, lighter in fact, than many land-only LSA even though it has a boat hull and retractable gear. Depending on your experience, you may take a bit longer to acclimate to SeaMax but you will be handsomely rewarded by the flight qualities and performance. Russ can guide you comfortably through the introduction.

What's New for SeaMax?

SeaMax is now offering the fuel-injected Rotax 912iS as an engine option. The first such was sent to Norway — where SeaMax has long had a solid base of enthusiasts — and the company reports customers from the USA are ordering this version. The first SeaMax with the 912iS arrives in America this coming May. Get more 912iS info.

The Brazilian company, with operations in Daytona Beach, Florida, launched a refreshed website recently. Web surfers can find prices for all versions on the site, download a brochure, and find a redesigned support area with all technical publications to download plus a troubleshooting area. For its 2019 lineup, SeaMax engineers have redesigned the cockpit. The company is offering three standard panels at different price points (see all of them):

Performance — All analog; keeping the plane light-weight
Exclusive — Combining the Garmin G3X 10.6-inch Touchscreen and analog instruments, making a hybrid panel, bringing versatility and great for training
Exclusive Dual — Two Garmin G3X 10.6-inch touchscreens plus a G5

While factory-approved CFI, Russ Miley will be offering intro flights at Sun 'n Fun this is most likely to occur if you have signed up at this link. Many slots are already filled by a good number remain. If this of interest, you should act soon. Otherwise, the company can do its best but only so many slots exist during each day.

For those who cannot attend Sun 'n Fun 2019, the company has a permanent aircraft in south Florida where it can offer introductory flights to customers. Beyond intro flights, SeaMax is now offering a transition training program for interested customers. When a customer purchases a new SeaMax at Sun 'n Fun 2019, the customer will get a 10-hour training program for free. That's a good deal and the full training will help you gain familiarity with SeaMax. In production since 2001, SeaMax M-22 has delivered over 150 units that are flying in more than 20 countries. The company is presently taking orders for delivery in the third quarter of 2019. Learn more about SeaMax in this Video Pilot Report from DeLand 2018: https://youtu.be/ufO95UbOwbc

Most Americans know the childhood story about the “Little Engine that Could,” a tale of determination, working against long odds and succeeding despite them. I think that relates to SeaMax. Visually, SeaMax looks small, low, and compact compared to some LSA seaplanes. Taking nothing away from the others, SeaMax appears ready to fill a need for something sportier, speedier. Despite its small size, SeaMax delivers comfort and capability. Learn more in my flight evaluation video below, but at Sun ‘n Fun 2019 starting in just a few days, SeaMax will be present with their staff to address more inquiries. Perhaps even more important, SeaMax Aircraft will have a airplane in the LSA Mall that will give demonstration flights to interested buyers. The flying will be done by Russ Miley with whom I flew for the Video Pilot Report (see below). I found him a wonderful instructor — I had asked him to treat me as a student.

Breaking News — Sling TSi Will Fly Non-Stop from California to Sun ‘n Fun 2019!

By Dan Johnson || March 30, 2019 Leave a Comment (Edit)

This Just In!

Follow the Sling TSi LIVE tomorrow, Sunday March 31st, 2019, as the new model flies this route: KTOA – KLAL (Coast to Coast) • Torrance, California to Lakeland, Florida, a distance of 1,900 nautical miles

Intended Departure: Sunday at 4 AM Pacific • Landing Florida before 7 PM Eastern in a flight forecast to take "under 12 hours" at a predicted speed of 160 knots (184 mph), at altitude. You can track the flight on FlightRadar24. Why would the boys from The Airplane Factory USA make such a long flight non-stop? Their purpose is "to demonstrate the altitude, true airspeed, and endurance/economy of the Sling TSi." They call out a normal cruise will be at 155 KTAS at 9,500 feet burning eight gallons an hour using the Rotax 915iS. The turbocharged FADEC engine will allow the airplane to climb as high as 20,000 feet.

Sling TSi has standard tanks of 45 gallons capacity or optional long-range wing tip tanks that add an additional 22 gallons plus an internal portable tanks of 20 gallons for a grand total of 87 gallons on board. Visit The Airplane Factory USA at Sun 'n Fun and see Sling TSi — you can also arrange a demo flight — at their Sun 'n Fun exhibit spaces N-082 and N-089. Until you can see it in all its aluminum glory, here is a short video to whet your appetite. Also, added since this post went live is a longer-length review of Sling TSi. Click this link to read the report in General Aviation News. https://youtu.be/JVH2Gt0BNEU

This Just In! Follow the Sling TSi LIVE tomorrow, Sunday March 31st, 2019, as the new model flies this route: KTOA – KLAL (Coast to Coast) • Torrance, California to Lakeland, Florida, a distance of 1,900 nautical miles Intended Departure: Sunday at 4 AM Pacific • Landing Florida before 7 PM Eastern in a flight forecast to take “under 12 hours” at a predicted speed of 160 knots (184 mph), at altitude. You can track the flight on FlightRadar24. Why would the boys from The Airplane Factory USA make such a long flight non-stop? Their purpose is “to demonstrate the altitude, true airspeed, and endurance/economy of the Sling TSi.” They call out a normal cruise will be at 155 KTAS at 9,500 feet burning eight gallons an hour using the Rotax 915iS. The turbocharged FADEC engine will allow the airplane to climb as high as 20,000 feet.

Lockwood Aircraft’s AirCam “Gen-3” — More Seats, More Power, More Fun

By Dan Johnson || March 29, 2019 5 Comments (Edit)

Let me admit right up front: I am a big fan of AirCam. I have flown several different examples. I have done a flight report in one with boss Phil Lockwood. I even earned my Multi-Engine Rating in one. For a longtime open-cockpit ultralight pilot like me, AirCam may be the ultimate expression of a fun aircraft in which you can do things you shouldn't even consider in most other airplanes. So, when Phil told me about Lockwood Aircraft's new Gen-3 (third generation) AirCam, I was more than a little interested. Here's the skinny. “Beginning with the opening day of Sun 'n Fun 2019 we will be debuting major upgrades to the AirCam airframe and powerplant packages,” Phil noted. All AirCam kits incorporating the new changes will be designated as “Gen-3” models.

Three-In-a-Row Seater

New Gen-3 model airframes will have the option of incorporating a third seat located behind the second seat and a 220-pound gross weight increase from the current 1,680-pound max gross weight to 1,900 pounds. “The new jump seat will be quickly removable to convert between cargo and and third passenger,” added Phil.

The third seat can be installed in either an open-cockpit AirCam or one with the full enclosure canopy. The canopy — developed some years after AirCam first emerged — was designed from the start to accommodate the third seat. “Numerous improvements have been incorporated in the new Gen-3 model airframes to accommodate the optional gross weight increase and jump seat,” said Lockwood. “The landing gear has been strengthened to accommodate greater landing and take off weights. Landing gear modifications include new stronger gear legs, a beefed-up fuselage gearbox and upgraded Beringer wheels and brakes.” Phil Lockwood also reported AirCam’s aft section of the fuselage and tail spring have also been strengthened to accommodate the higher loads. The new fuselage incorporates a new set of foot wells to improve comfort and safety when utilizing the jump seat. These new foot wells also increase the volume of the cargo bay when not using the third seat. “You’ll also find harness attachment hard points that are built into the new fuselage for the third seat passenger,” Lockwood said. The Sebring, Florida company noted that some float-equipped AirCams have already been operating at higher gross weights, up to 2,000 pounds, based on the capacity of the amphibious landing gear and increased lift provided by the floats at high angles of attack. The Gen-3 model airframe benefits are designed to allow for increased gross weights for land planes only.

Higher Power — More Is Good

Airplanes are somewhat like sound equipment. If you get a more powerful amplifier you may need new speakers and that may require other better equipment. On an airplane if you increase capability, you may need more power, which means better engine mounts and so forth.

Being Rotax experts known across the country, Lockwood's enterprise was ready to step up the potency of their twin engines. They've long offered the more powerful turbocharged Rotax 914. Most AirCams, however, work wonderfully well with a pair of the 100-horsepower Rotax 912ULS or 912iS engines. Even more could be better, you might agree. To provide the additional single engine performance needed for the higher gross weights of AirCam Gen 3 Lockwood Aircraft is offering a new, upgraded 115-horsepower Rotax 912 power package using a “big-bore kit” involving new cylinders and heavier pistons. “Customers opting for the standard 100-horsepower 912 engines will be limited to the original 1,680-pound maximum gross weight,” Lockwood clarified.

“The additional 15 horsepower per engine is achieved though an increase in displacement with no increase in weight.” Customers may purchase or retrofit either a carbureted 912 ULS or fuel injected 912iS engine package to provide 115-horsepower upgrades for either engine model. Buyers or owners can opt to install the 115-horsepower package at a later date. What may be exciting for current owners of a 912ULS or iS on another airplane is that this engine upgrade is something you can achieve retroactively. The cost is about $6,000, Phil indicated, but for that money you get a substantial performance boost. If interested, contact Lockwood Supply to see if they can help you in your aircraft. Wait a couple weeks, though. As this is written, Sun 'n Fun 2019 is about to start and it will be most hands on deck at the event leaving a smaller staff at home in Sebring. Give them time to return and check out the new, powerful, non-turbo 912 with 115-horsepower. Get more details, some AirCam development history, and more in the following video: https://youtu.be/ur3Gl0COTGo

Let me admit right up front: I am a big fan of AirCam. I have flown several different examples. I have done a flight report in one with boss Phil Lockwood. I even earned my Multi-Engine Rating in one. For a longtime open-cockpit ultralight pilot like me, AirCam may be the ultimate expression of a fun aircraft in which you can do things you shouldn’t even consider in most other airplanes. So, when Phil told me about Lockwood Aircraft‘s new Gen-3 (third generation) AirCam, I was more than a little interested. Here’s the skinny. “Beginning with the opening day of Sun ‘n Fun 2019 we will be debuting major upgrades to the AirCam airframe and powerplant packages,” Phil noted. All AirCam kits incorporating the new changes will be designated as “Gen-3” models. Three-In-a-Row Seater New Gen-3 model airframes will have the option of incorporating a third seat located behind the second seat and a 220-pound gross weight increase from the current 1,680-pound max gross weight to 1,900 pounds.

Continental Motors Becomes Continental Aerospace Technologies — Much is New

By Dan Johnson || March 28, 2019 Leave a Comment (Edit)

A few years ago, I visited Continental Motors in Mobile Alabama on the Gulf coast of the southern U.S. state. Here's what I wrote about that tour. The factory was a World War II-vintage facility. I saw many new CNC machines and they were humming with activity. I also saw acres of the earlier generation of engine-manufacturing equipment. Nearly all of this hardware was idle even as it occupied large amounts of space. Times have changed. Continental changed, too, but the old tooling still rested in position Now, that is changing. Last year the company announced their new "green field" construction project, one of the largest in the state. It was clear that …well, let's hear how the company describes it.

"This Is a New Dawn"

"We’re proud to introduce you to the new name and brand identity of a company that has been a major leader in the world of aviation for over 110 years." said Continental.

"With this new dawn comes a new name and brand identity for a major leader in the world of aviation. Introducing Continental Aerospace Technologies," stated their press release. However, they're busy doing much more than rebadging the company with a new, modern look. Their video below helps tell a fuller story.

Continental acquired the Titan engine line that powers a growing number of Light-Sport Aircraft.

The new company name and graphic "clarifies Continental Aerospace's industry sector and the refreshed logo amplifies the theme by evoking flight, motion, and looking to the future." "Join us as we write the next chapter of a story that already spans over a century," continued Continental, "where our reputation for exceptional service and engine solutions is combined with new ambitions, new innovations and new foundations upon which Continental Aerospace Technologies™ can establish a new era in general aviation." Continental has a strong relationship with the city and region around Mobile, as noted in this article.

Parts are an essential part of the overall business, one that is of high importance to the many owners of their powerplants.

Officials report the Alabama company is evolving rapidly, adding more products to their portfolio incuding gasoline and Jet-A fuel engines. "While we continue to innovate and bring new technologies to the market, we are also working to enhance our service, support and manufacturing," said Christopher Kuehn, vice president of sales, marketing, and customer support. Continental has a strong relationship with the city and region around Mobile, as noted in this article. Continental has been a leader in general aviation throughout its 115-year history. It began with radial engines in 1905. Over the ensuing years, Continental's "firsts" include bringing fuel injection, turbocharging, FADEC, and Jet-A piston engines into the general aviation market. The company's video, featuring President and CEO Rhett Ross and many employees reveals the global nature and footprint of this stalwart of aviation. In it, you see their brand-new factory under construction. https://youtu.be/Adm8yZsymhI

A few years ago, I visited Continental Motors in Mobile Alabama on the Gulf coast of the southern U.S. state. Here’s what I wrote about that tour. The factory was a World War II-vintage facility. I saw many new CNC machines and they were humming with activity. I also saw acres of the earlier generation of engine-manufacturing equipment. Nearly all of this hardware was idle even as it occupied large amounts of space. Times have changed. Continental changed, too, but the old tooling still rested in position Now, that is changing. Last year the company announced their new “green field” construction project, one of the largest in the state. It was clear that …well, let’s hear how the company describes it. “This Is a New Dawn” “We’re proud to introduce you to the new name and brand identity of a company that has been a major leader in the world of aviation for over 110 years.” said Continental.

Ready for Sun ‘n Fun 2019 — Airplanes and Engines on Display in LSA Mall

By Dan Johnson || March 22, 2019 Leave a Comment (Edit)

This year celebrates 15 years of Light-Sport Aircraft and its companion pilot certificate, Sport Pilot. This year also celebrates the 12th year of LAMA providing the LSA Mall. What a fascinating ride it has been! For 2019, LAMA will again host its special location at the big spring celebration of flight that is Sun 'n Fun. LAMA is able to mount this attraction thanks to longstanding support from Sun 'n Fun management and many industry players. The purpose of the LSA Mall is twofold: (1) present aircraft to visitors in a convenient, enjoyable setting, and (2) showcase the light aircraft industry in one location. The LSA Mall is not limited to Special Light-Sport Aircraft but features Sport Pilot-eligible kit aircraft and ultralights plus specialty light aircraft that may be of interest to pilots.

For 2019, the LSA Mall will add a few previously-owned LSA, as this part of the light aircraft market is developing. I've written about used LSA as a way to offer highly airworthy but more affordable aircraft. Not only does this benefit buyers with different budgets but it supports new aircraft sales because pilots seeking something brand new often have a used aircraft they need to sell before they can complete the new purchase. For years, airshow organizers have been impressed that sellers of LSA and Sport Pilot kits have been willing to display in close formation with one another. I find it a tribute to this aviation sector that they realize each aircraft has appeal to certain pilot buyers and it may not always be their aircraft. Conversely, someone looking at their competitor may also examine what they have and a kind of cross pollination can occur. Good for all! For Sun 'n Fun 2019, we are expecting the following aircraft, a dozen strong…

LSA and Sport Pilot Kits

US Sport Planes — will feature not one, but two of their speedy high wing composite models powered by Jabiru
Aeromarine LSA — entries including Merlin and Zigolo; both will be available with electrical propulsion
Bristell USA — the sleek, luxurious low wing from BRM Aero enjoyed a strong year of sales in 2018
Fly High — this newer company will display a surprise entry from TL Ultralights, maker of smooth carbon fiber LSA
SWT Aviation — presenting the super-popular CarbonCub that has risen toward the top of the sales charts
Dreams Come True — offering a closer look at the deluxe Evektor Harmony with a special price on the one displayed
Pipistrel — see a long-winged, long-gliding Sinus and learn about the entire line available such as Virus SW
Viking Aircraft Engines — see a Rans S-12 with the Viking 90 installed; their planes are always eye-catching
Florida LSA — examine a CTsw (the "hot-rod" version of this popular model) and check out a good price point
Sport Aero Services — representing a very clean Breezer, another attractively priced LSA available for immediate delivery

In addition to dozen Light-Sport Aircraft and Sport Pilot kits all parked wingtip-to-wingtip, LAMA will also again host a display of engines used on Light-Sport Aircraft and Sport Pilot kits. Pilots have a understandable fascination with engines and the display in the LAMA tent at the LSA Mall in Paradise City is the one-and-only place where you can see them all in close proximity to one another.

Light Aircraft Engines

Rotax — maker of the new 915iS plus many other 9-series models widely used in LSA and Sport Pilot kits Continental Motors — the builder of the 180-horsepower Titan engines that have taken LSA and SP kit by storm Jabiru — maker of thousands of engines used around the world; see one of their several popular models. Viking Aircraft Engines — based on Honda's advanced components, Viking has a range of engines available at excellent prices AeroMomentum — based on Suzuki latest automobile engines, AeroMomentum offers wonderful value

Need a Free Ride?

If you visit the core area of Sun 'n Fun, you know it is a fair walk to Paradise City. Yet it is a great draw as many see that Sun 'n Fun's "alternate airport" in Paradise City represents something of an airshow-within-an airshow. As with AirVenture, Sun 'n Fun is a sprawling affair and it takes a while to hoof it from one location to another. Thanks to Rotax Aircraft Engines, LAMA is again pleased to offer a free ride on one of two 6-seater golf carts. Operated by volunteers from Paradise City, you can catch a ride from the foot court area of Sun 'n Fun's main area to the Rotax exhibit at the main entry gate for the show and from that point to the LSA Mall. These golf cart shuttles run back and forth all day at no cost to rider.

Look for the golf carts with the Rotax logo prominently displayed and stick your thumb out for a ride. I hope you are coming to Sun 'n Fun 2019. If you cannot, check back here for news as I find it.

This year celebrates 15 years of Light-Sport Aircraft and its companion pilot certificate, Sport Pilot. This year also celebrates the 12th year of LAMA providing the LSA Mall. What a fascinating ride it has been! For 2019, LAMA will again host its special location at the big spring celebration of flight that is Sun ‘n Fun. LAMA is able to mount this attraction thanks to longstanding support from Sun ‘n Fun management and many industry players. The purpose of the LSA Mall is twofold: (1) present aircraft to visitors in a convenient, enjoyable setting, and (2) showcase the light aircraft industry in one location. The LSA Mall is not limited to Special Light-Sport Aircraft but features Sport Pilot-eligible kit aircraft and ultralights plus specialty light aircraft that may be of interest to pilots. For 2019, the LSA Mall will add a few previously-owned LSA, as this part of the light aircraft market is developing.

Texas Aircraft Unveils All-New Colt 100 Light-Sport Aircraft

By Dan Johnson || March 18, 2019 17 Comments (Edit)

In late February, Texas Aircraft invited me to an unveiling ceremony. As it's always wonderful to witness the arrival of a new aircraft and sense the excitement and enthusiasm of its developers, I jumped at the opportunity. Now that they've taken off the wraps, I am pleased to offer readers a first close look at the Colt 100. Known as Texas Aircraft Manufacturing, the company hosted an event to inaugurate its new development and production facility at South Texas Regional Airport in Hondo, Texas. Our hosts were Texas Aircraft Manufacturing CEO Matheus Grande and company partners Caio Jordão, Diego Jordão, Carlos Barros and Samantha Almeida.

(L-R) Matheus Grande, CEO Texas Aircraft Manufacturing; Caio Jordão, Chief Designer; and, Carlos Barros, Partner.

In his opening remarks Grande said, “Thank you very much for being a part of this special, historic moment. It is our honor to have all of you with us. Today, we are here to celebrate the first important step of this company and we are so very proud to present our new facility to you.”

“Soon we will be launching our new Light-Sport Aircraft into the world market, and we invite all of you to join us at EAA Oshkosh AirVenture in July 2019 for that official introduction,” Grande said.

Company partner Carlos Barros cut a ceremonial red ribbon officially inaugurating the new building. “The best words I can say are gratitude and thankfulness for the warm reception we have received from everyone here in Hondo,” he said.

“We cannot thank the people of Hondo enough for the loving welcome we have received since coming here,” Barros said. “The leadership and people of Hondo have made this possible. We are proudly genuine sons and daughters of Hondo. We are confident that we will make Hondo deeply proud of us.”

“We are a company with a clear vision and very consistent energy. Our mission is to always keep our values and our solid principles of honesty, integrity, service, love and respect,” Grande stated. “May God give us the reason and humanity to guide us according to His will, so we can really make a difference in this world.”

In addition to Hondo city officials including the mayor, Lyndsey Dennis represented Texas Governor Gregg Abbott’s Office of Economic Development and presented a certificate signed by the Governor congratulating the Texas Aircraft Manufacturing team with their accomplishment.

Founding Texas Aircraft Manufacturing in 2017 Grande, Barros, aircraft designer Caio Jordão and their team blended new equipment with modern technologies and materials to produce this new-generation light aircraft, hoping to encourage pilots to achieve their dream of aircraft ownership. Their new Colt 100 Light-Sport Aircraft will be fully fabricated and assembled at the Hondo airport where many former U.S. military aircraft technicians are available. The Hondo airport was a military field for many years and offers an experienced talent pool plus qualified suppliers in the area.

Powered by a Rotax 912 swinging a Sterno composite prop, Colt is an all-metal, tricycle gear design based on a previous-generation aircraft that Caio Jordão created at Indústria Paulista de Aeronáutica. While Colt is a fresh take on the configuration, the design brings a successful history to the LSA sector. Because Colt 100 is just entering its flight test regimen and is completing the ASTM compliance testing and documentation, Texas Aircraft did not release any data about the aircraft. In the meantime our video walk-around will show you more. Here's an exclusive first-ever look at the Texas Aircraft Colt 100: https://youtu.be/EtIb2kr3W1M

In late February, Texas Aircraft invited me to an unveiling ceremony. As it’s always wonderful to witness the arrival of a new aircraft and sense the excitement and enthusiasm of its developers, I jumped at the opportunity. Now that they’ve taken off the wraps, I am pleased to offer readers a first close look at the Colt 100. Known as Texas Aircraft Manufacturing, the company hosted an event to inaugurate its new development and production facility at South Texas Regional Airport in Hondo, Texas. Our hosts were Texas Aircraft Manufacturing CEO Matheus Grande and company partners Caio Jordão, Diego Jordão, Carlos Barros and Samantha Almeida. In his opening remarks Grande said, “Thank you very much for being a part of this special, historic moment. It is our honor to have all of you with us. Today, we are here to celebrate the first important step of this company and we are so very proud to present our new facility to you.” “Soon we will be launching our new Light-Sport Aircraft into the world market, and we invite all of you to join us at EAA Oshkosh AirVenture in July 2019 for that official introduction,” Grande said.

Modern Horten Wing Aircraft Excitement as Aero 2019 Approaches

By Dan Johnson || March 13, 2019 16 Comments (Edit)

World War II History

As the second great war progressed, Germany sought more advantage as fanatical government leaders pursued their ambitions. The war was dragging on and they needed better war equipment.

In 1943, Reichsmarschall Göring issued a request for design proposals to produce a bomber that was capable of carrying a 1,000 kilogram (2,200 pound) load over 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) at 1,000 kilometers per hour (620 mph) — the so-called "3×1000 project." Conventional German bombers could reach Allied command centers in Great Britain, but were suffering devastating losses from Allied fighters. At the time, no aircraft could meet these goals. Junkers turbojet engines could provide the required speed but had excessive fuel consumption. Walter and Reimer Horten concluded that a low-drag flying wing design could meet all of the goals. By reducing drag, cruise power could be lowered to the point where the range requirement could be met. They put forward their private project, the H.IX, as the basis for the bomber.

The Government Air Ministry approved the Horten proposal, but ordered the addition of two 30-mm cannons because they felt the aircraft would also be useful as a fighter as its estimated top speed was significantly higher than that of any Allied aircraft. In short, flying wings are lean and make efficient use of the weight of their structure. That sounds like worthy qualifications for a Light-Sport Aircraft or Sport Pilot kit.

Near Future Announcement

Indeed, at the Aero Friedrichshafen event in about one month Horten Aircraft will present its civilian flying wing aircraft at a World Premiere debut. (No cannons will be included.)

Test pilot Kai Schülter tests the HX-2 aircraft. An evaluation program will last several months.

After three years of development, German aircraft manufacturer Horten Aircraft will unveil its prototype flying wing that is already undergoing flight testing as the nearby photos attest. "This aircraft is a highly modern economical two-seat tailless light aircraft without a fuselage," said the company. "Due to its low aerodynamic resistance, the flying wing flies farther and faster than a comparable aircraft with a fuselage," said Bernhard Mattlener, Managing Director of the company that belongs to the Lift Air group. Lift is also the owner of Flight Design and their CT series plus the Rotorvox luxury gyroplane. "The design of the airframe makes it easily adaptable for installing new propulsion technologies we anticipate will become available in the future,” added Mattlener. Horten Aircraft plans further developments, such as multi-seat and unmanned versions of its current prototype.

The aircraft will be built at the company's headquarters at Kindel Airfield near Eisenach, Germany where Lift is headquartered. At the beginning of the 20th century — in 1910, a mere seven years after the Wrights flew their Kitty Hawk Flyer off the North Carolina sand dunes — Hugo Junkers received a patent for his work on flying wings. The modern company name honors the visionary aircraft designer, Dr. Ing. Reimar Horten (1915-1994). "He is regarded as a pioneer in the field of flying wings and made the most significant contributions to the development of the forerunner prototypes," said Mattlener.

At this time, the company is not disclosing any pertinent data about the aircraft but I will be at Aero Friedrichshafen 2019 and will report further from the event. While this is not a Flight Design LSA project, the Horten will become part of the Lift family of recreational aircraft. I also expect to report on other aircraft developments from the German producer.

Something old. Something new. Hang glider pilots I know are very familiar with Horten designs, a form of validation for modern hang gliders …flying wings, aircraft with no tail or fuselage structures. Yet many pilots don’t know Horton and have only a sketchy understand of flying wing stability. World War II History As the second great war progressed, Germany sought more advantage as fanatical government leaders pursued their ambitions. The war was dragging on and they needed better war equipment. In 1943, Reichsmarschall Göring issued a request for design proposals to produce a bomber that was capable of carrying a 1,000 kilogram (2,200 pound) load over 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) at 1,000 kilometers per hour (620 mph) — the so-called “3×1000 project.” Conventional German bombers could reach Allied command centers in Great Britain, but were suffering devastating losses from Allied fighters. At the time, no aircraft could meet these goals. Junkers turbojet engines could provide the required speed but had excessive fuel consumption.

BRS Logs Save Number 400 — Using Airframe Parachutes Definitely Saves Lives

By Dan Johnson || March 11, 2019 Leave a Comment (Edit)

"You just saved my life!" It's not often anyone, even a medical doctor, hears those words. Back in the '90s I was sometimes on the receiving end of a call when a pilot phoned BRS to report a "save," a sparing of a life by the use of a parachute. It is a humbling experience to have someone exclaim that you (and your fellow workers) are the reason they are alive. A few days ago, it happened again, for the 400th time. BRS Aerospace documented the 400th and 401st lives saved, a worthy milestone in aviation safety. "This milestone and all of the lives saved are a testament to Boris Popov, who conceived the idea and whose vision for the company he founded overcame initial resistance to the very idea of aircraft parachutes from some naysayers," said BRS President and Director, Enrique Dillon. "The concept's legacy are the pilots and passengers who survived to continue to live fruitful lives and the thousands of families who have enjoyed added peace of mind when their loved ones fly."

The system is designed to be a last resort for pilots and passengers when all other attempts to recover the airplane in case of emergency or pilot incapacitation have failed. Numbers 400 and 401 entered the BRS save logbook when the pilot of a Cirrus aircraft with an engine out deployed the whole aircraft rescue system over water more than 20 miles from Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos. BRS reported that pilot and passenger were uninjured and that they were picked up by a cruise ship.

Check here to see if BRS can mount on a system on your LSA.

The BRS parachute system is deployed in life threatening situations by a rocket to slow the aircraft in the airstream and then lower it and occupants to the ground in a measured descent (artwork). The parachute and solid propellant ballistic rocket assembly are enclosed in a canister mounted inside the fuselage that is activated manually or automatically. With more than 30,000 systems installed during the past 35 years on sport aircraft, certified aircraft, and military trainers, approximately one of every 120 systems has been activated as a last resort for pilot and passenger safety in potentially lethal situations. "The idea of saving an entire aircraft through a deployable parachute system is an ingenious invention that deserves its place in the history of safer flight," said Richard McSpadden of AOPA's Air Safety Institute.

Numerous European and U.S. ultralight and experimental aircraft use the system, including Lancair, Carbon Cub, Kitfox, Glassair, Flight Design, Rans, Van's RV 7/9/10, Kolb, Zenair, and Quicksilver. The BRS whole aircraft parachutes are available for light sport aircraft including CTSW, CTLS, Piper Sport Cruiser, Cessna Skycatcher, Bristell, FK-9 and Icon A5. Certified general aviation aircraft that fly with the system include Cessna 150, 152, 172, 182, and Symphony. Such a system is standard equipment on the Cirrus SR20 and SR22. Check this video interview with Boris Popov: https://youtu.be/z8iOGptW1WY

“You just saved my life!” It’s not often anyone, even a medical doctor, hears those words. Back in the ’90s I was sometimes on the receiving end of a call when a pilot phoned BRS to report a “save,” a sparing of a life by the use of a parachute. It is a humbling experience to have someone exclaim that you (and your fellow workers) are the reason they are alive. A few days ago, it happened again, for the 400th time. BRS Aerospace documented the 400th and 401st lives saved, a worthy milestone in aviation safety. “This milestone and all of the lives saved are a testament to Boris Popov, who conceived the idea and whose vision for the company he founded overcame initial resistance to the very idea of aircraft parachutes from some naysayers,” said BRS President and Director, Enrique Dillon. “The concept’s legacy are the pilots and passengers who survived to continue to live fruitful lives and the thousands of families who have enjoyed added peace of mind when their loved ones fly.” The system is designed to be a last resort for pilots and passengers when all other attempts to recover the airplane in case of emergency or pilot incapacitation have failed.

Enabling Pilots with Light-Sport Aircraft, Able Flight Partners with Sun ‘n Fun

By Dan Johnson || March 10, 2019 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Light-Sport Aircraft have accomplished much in the 15 years this new class of aircraft have existed: • Lower purchase cost — with choices spread over a wide variety of aircraft. • Lower operational cost and ability to use auto gas, available everywhere on Earth. • Pilots no longer required to achieve an aviation medical. …and much more. Light-Sport Aircraft may have enabled more than you know …literally enabled. One significant way has been to offer the dream of flight to those who have lost some abilities. One organization has been in the vanguard of this positive development thanks to its capable, persistent, and motivated leader, Charles Stites. That entity is Able Flight, a worthy group that has attracted many friends and supporters (among them your humble reporter).

Able Flight Teams Up with Sun 'n Fun & ACE

Recently, Charles was able to announce a new agreement with the well-known airshow event and its education arm.

"Our new training partnership with Sun 'n Fun Inc's Aerospace Center For Excellence (ACE) provides an outstanding opportunity to build upon our successful relationships with Purdue University and The Ohio State University," noted Charles. "Able Flight can now send flight training scholarship winners to three training locations. Florida delivers an ability to train almost year round," observed Stites, adding, "Able Flight student pilots will benefit from the expertise of dedicated aviation professionals who have built a unique program." Sun 'n Fun was pleased to lend support. "Aerospace Center for Excellence, the educational component of Sun 'n Fun, Inc., is excited to announce its partnership with Able Flight, a unique organization that shares a similar belief that learning to fly is a life changing experience," said Ed Young, Executive Director of ACE. "The partnership with Able Flight is a perfect marriage. Our mission at ACE is to engage, educate and accelerate the next generation of aerospace professionals. Able Flight's success educating individuals with disabilities in flight training is unparalleled. We have the opportunity to truly change lives by combining our core competencies." The partnership is supported by Zenith Aircraft, which is providing ACE with a Zenith 750 kit that will be modified with adapted hand controls for use by Able Flight student pilots. The plan is to build the airplane in the Buehler Restoration Center on the ACE campus during Sun 'n Fun with the help of the Lakeland Aeroclub, the youth flying club on the ACE campus. Young said. "We are planning to name the aircraft the Spirit of Lakeland."

Tribute to a Friend

"It is safe to say that Able Flight would never have existed without the influence of Jon Hansen, wrote Charles. "After a career as a Navy carrier pilot and then airline captain, Jon was instrumental in getting the FAA to approve the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) category and Sport Pilot certificate. That made it possible for Able Flight to offer scholarships and training to people with physical disabilities." "Just as importantly," Charles continued, "Jon imported the first LSA with adapted hand controls and that prompted the creation of Able Flight. He was a generous supporter and friend who believed in our mission from the beginning, and his legacy lives on in every Able Flight pilot." Jon's help to Able Flight was not his only support. He was also a great benefactor of Light-Sport Aircraft in general, to LAMA as an organization representing LSA, and to efforts on behalf of the LSA industry such as the LSA Mall at Sun 'n Fun. It is also safe to say these organizations would be less well off without Jon's interest along with that of his sons, Mike and Mitch, and his brother, Ron.

Jon passed away on February 15th at the age of 83. Aviation lost a good man after many productive years. Rest in peace, old friend. Jon and Ron, twin brothers like Jon's sons Mike and Mitch, last year made another donation, this one to Mt. Vernon Airport, home of the Midwest LSA Expo where Jon was a regular participant. See the "jet on a stick" story here. Learn more about Jon Hansen, SkyArrow, and Able Flight in this video from 2012. https://youtu.be/FshVSkNB0hY

Light-Sport Aircraft have accomplished much in the 15 years this new class of aircraft have existed: • Lower purchase cost — with choices spread over a wide variety of aircraft. • Lower operational cost and ability to use auto gas, available everywhere on Earth. • Pilots no longer required to achieve an aviation medical. …and much more. Light-Sport Aircraft may have enabled more than you know …literally enabled. One significant way has been to offer the dream of flight to those who have lost some abilities. One organization has been in the vanguard of this positive development thanks to its capable, persistent, and motivated leader, Charles Stites. That entity is Able Flight, a worthy group that has attracted many friends and supporters (among them your humble reporter). Able Flight Teams Up with Sun ‘n Fun & ACE Recently, Charles was able to announce a new agreement with the well-known airshow event and its education arm.

Mule from Gair-Planes Has a Solid History and Can Save You Money

By Dan Johnson || February 22, 2019 2 Comments (Edit)

"We are Arizona's newest aircraft manufacturer," said Garrett Komm when we finally located him and his bright blue and silver aircraft. A fan of this particular flying machine had approached me at Copperstate and said, "You gotta go see this airplane. Tell him Russell sent you!" (Thanks, Russell!) After wrapping up a couple other video interviews, Videoman Dave and I left the main exhibit area to seek out Russell's discovery. As we came upon it, parked among other transients to the light aircraft area at Copperstate, we both found it vaguely familiar. Well, it was vague for me. Dave was sure right away. That's because Gair-Planes' Mule started life as the Merlin from Canada and Dave was associated with the project for a time. Garrett had also worked with the Canadian designer so they compared notes for a few minutes.

A small, removable step helps you boost yourself into Mule's cockpit.

I'd flown one of these for an hour or so many years ago. I've since enjoyed many more, hence my vaguer recollection. Dave had actually worked with the founder of the company, explaining his instant and deeper recognition. (This combination is why Dave and I make a good team; a couple veterans who have seen most of everything in this space, experience that helped us as we made 600-and-counting videos.) Garrett is a Canadian national living in Arizona on a visa so he wants to produce kits and therefore employ some Americans to extend his welcome. It's a common tactic of value and given Mule's low price and durable STOL behavior, Gair-Planes can achieve this goal, forging ahead. Pilots like Russell are happy about that.

Merlin to Mule Canada to Florida to Arizona

Merlin is a Canadian design introduced in 1990 by John Burch, a Canadian ultralight instructor. In other words it was built for flight instruction in Canada, where landings on unimproved runways would (wisely) be part of regular training.

"Merlin was one tough little aeroplane," said Dave Loveman. "John Burch was a Canadian ultralight instructor and needed a better aircraft for his flight school. The 42 inch wide cabin is quite comfortable for even the largest of pilots." Mule is a bit wider at 46 inches. After Burch's Canadian operation, Merlin was for a period offered by AeroComp on Florida's Atlantic coast, at the Merritt Island airport. Now Gair-Planes is offering the kit from Arizona, all part of the interesting migration of designs that prove their worth. As with Merlin, Mule is built around a welded 4130 chromoly steel fuselage and tail structure, all fabric covered. Wings use aluminum D Cell construction, with styrofoam ribs. The result was tested by the Canadian creator to +4 and –2 Gs.

Mule is a taildragger, in a tractor configuration, with side by side seating. Controls are standard stick and rudder with a center Y-stick. "We are not the fastest airplane out there," observed Garrett, "but we believe that we are one of the best for low and slow backcountry flying." Powered by a Rotax 912, climb rate is 1,000 feet per minute off the runway, said Garrett. He's using the 912 but the airframe can work with engines from the 65-horsepower Rotax 582 up to 120 horsepower. Cruise is 85 mph, Garrett said, with slow stall below 30 mph. Mule earns its STOL designation by taking off or landing solo in 150 feet.

With an airframe kit price of $18,700, adding an engine for a similar amount, plus paint and basic avionics, you should be able to get a Mule airborne for less than $50,000. "Building time is about 400 hours," said Garrett, though agreeing that this can depend on builder experience and how detailed the builder wants to go.

Mule Is Not All…

Gair-Planes appears to be a new active player in the kit aircraft game and it won't be just a one-horse show. Another very interesting design is coming together pretty quickly, it appears. Check Garrett's YouTube channel to get a glimpse of his next 62%-replica project, already well along. No moss is gathering on this fellow. Learn even more, directly from the manufacturer, in our video shot at Copperstate 2019. https://youtu.be/uGciv5WRdn0

“We are Arizona’s newest aircraft manufacturer,” said Garrett Komm when we finally located him and his bright blue and silver aircraft. A fan of this particular flying machine had approached me at Copperstate and said, “You gotta go see this airplane. Tell him Russell sent you!” (Thanks, Russell!) After wrapping up a couple other video interviews, Videoman Dave and I left the main exhibit area to seek out Russell’s discovery. As we came upon it, parked among other transients to the light aircraft area at Copperstate, we both found it vaguely familiar. Well, it was vague for me. Dave was sure right away. That’s because Gair-Planes‘ Mule started life as the Merlin from Canada and Dave was associated with the project for a time. Garrett had also worked with the Canadian designer so they compared notes for a few minutes. I’d flown one of these for an hour or so many years ago.

AeroJones Unveils Their Six-Axis Full-Motion Flight Simulator for CTLS

By Dan Johnson || February 13, 2019 3 Comments (Edit)

At a major show in China called Zhuhai visitors saw something: a new 6-axis LSA flight simulator. The developer is AeroJones Aviation, the CTLS manufacturer for the Asia-Pacific region. The company exhibited their simulator to a warm reception. General aviation is beginning to develop in China lead by airport construction at hundreds of the country's huge cities. As I've written before, I have no doubt the airports will be built, but actual flying at most of them — by Light-Sport Aircraft or other recreational aircraft — seems somewhere off in the future. China has a massive job ahead. Chinese business people have proven very capable of building many things, but developing a culture of the citizenry flying in light aircraft still has quite a distance to go. However, AeroJones new simulator may help the country take a huge stride forward.

First, Simulate — Then, Go Aloft

Chinese citizens play games, including flight simulators, as much as (or perhaps even more than) Americans do. Sitting at their computer or using a mobile smartphone or tablet is commonplace. They know this activity and it may provide a bridge to people going aloft in an actual airplane like CTLS. Imagine if you had never, ever seen a small plane of any kind. Would you rush to fly it? It's hard for Americans to envision this situation as we have small airplanes everywhere and airports in nearly every town in the nation. AeroJones may truly be on to something developing their full-motion simulator. “At the Zhuhai Airshow 2018, our AeroJones 6-axis of motion CTLS simulator was shown for the first time to the public,” said Michael Chou, who handles marketing for the company. He reported that reception to the new simulator was very enthusiastic.

Although having the shortest span of any Light-Sport Aircraft, AeroJones' new full-motion simulator is full-sized and equipped similarly to any deluxe CTLS aircraft.

“Our flying CTLS also received lots attention in the show,” said Chou. “The market is growing for Chinese general aviation. We visited with many prospective customers from flight clubs and flight schools that expressed interest in the AeroJones CTLS.” “The cabin scale of the full-motion simulator is 1:1 of the flying CTLS,” added Mr. Chou, meaning that the simulator is an exact size copy of the actual LSA. “Our simulator is equipped with two SkyView digital instrument panels designed by Dynon Avionics in the USA. The simulator has dual control sticks and rudders so an instructor can help a student learn the procedures and perform maneuvers. For the general public, it is a great device for entertainment.” “AeroJones Aviation owner Jones Chen was pleased with the response to our aircraft and especially for our unique full-motion simulator,” said Mr. Hsieh Chi-Tai, General Aviation Development Vice President for AeroJones Aviation Technology Co., Ltd.

AeroJones is deep into planning for their new aircraft factory in Zhenjiang, China — where, presumably, they will also build the simulator. With the new facility, all manufacturing steps will be easier, less costly, and much more efficient, which will contribute to better values for customers buying the CTLS. Flight schools or other buyers of the modern and sophisticated CTLS will be able to fly to Dalu General Airport to see the factory and take demonstrations flights to confirm their purchase. At the time the new factory was announced, Mr. Jones Chen said, “We are very pleased about the relationship with leaders of Zhenjiang. We look forward to a long and prosperous relationship."

Who Is AeroJones?

An artist's concept for the new AeroJones factory in Zhenjiang. It has direct access to the Dalu airport.

Please let me clarify for readers who may recall seeing the AeroJones brand at American airshows. For a time, it did appear the Taiwan-based company would sell into the USA. However, that plan changed and today, the primary markets for AeroJones Aviation include China, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Japan, Korea, and Thailand. Because Flight Design general aviation, the original developer of the CT-series, does not currently market a full-motion flight simulator, this particular product may find its way into western nations. Beyond their aircraft factory in Xiamen, China and the new one to come in Zhenjiang — not far from the well-known megacity of Shanghai — AeroJones also operates a flying field, flight school, and maintenance center at an airfield in Taiwan.

At a major show in China called Zhuhai visitors saw something: a new 6-axis LSA flight simulator. The developer is AeroJones Aviation, the CTLS manufacturer for the Asia-Pacific region. The company exhibited their simulator to a warm reception. General aviation is beginning to develop in China lead by airport construction at hundreds of the country’s huge cities. As I’ve written before, I have no doubt the airports will be built, but actual flying at most of them — by Light-Sport Aircraft or other recreational aircraft — seems somewhere off in the future. China has a massive job ahead. Chinese business people have proven very capable of building many things, but developing a culture of the citizenry flying in light aircraft still has quite a distance to go. However, AeroJones new simulator may help the country take a huge stride forward. First, Simulate — Then, Go Aloft Chinese citizens play games, including flight simulators, as much as (or perhaps even more than) Americans do.

Copperstate Day 3 — Going Aloft in the Flying Legend Tucano Replica Light-Kit Aircraft

By Dan Johnson || February 11, 2019 6 Comments (Edit)

On Day 3 of Copperstate at the Buckeye Air Fair, crowds were again strong and the skies gradually cleared for another day of flying in the smoothest air I've felt in some time. What made this extra special was a chance to go aloft in the Flying Legend Tucano Replica, a scaled down version of a well-known Brazilian military aircraft. Indeed, the fighter-like shape and paint job of Tucano beckoned convincingly and I went aloft with Flying Legend USA representative, Giovanni Matichecchia …yeah, I told him I'd just call him Giovanni. He grinned and said his last name was tough even for Italians. This capable 27-year-old pilot is off to the airlines one day but is doing a fine job of demonstration flying Tucano for media types like me and potential buyers of this eye-catching machine.

Flying Legend's Tucano is a scale replica of well-regarded original. Embraer's EMB 312 Tucano is "a low-wing, tandem-seat, single-turboprop, basic trainer with counter-insurgency capability developed in Brazil," according to Wikipedia. Flying Legend's Tucano is one you can consider owning. The Italian Tucano uses a supercharged (not turbocharged) Rotax engine, a modification of the well-known brand by an Italian company with good results over eight years of sales. This specialty powerplant produces 140 horsepower and definitely delivered a spirited takeoff. With optional retractable gear and in-flight adjustable prop Tucano is a hot performer. Throughout our maneuvers, Tucano felt exceptionally sturdy in the air. We did benefit from perfect conditions but it was clear this aircraft is tough enough for basic aerobatics as advertised. (We did not do any.)

Stalls were surprisingly slow considering how clean the aircraft looks, down into the high 40 knot range. A LSA version should readily meet standards for stall. Handling was very well behaved. I found the stick a mite heavy in roll but it was exceptionally precise. Again smooth air helps but Tucano held even steeply banked 720 turns with ease and a light touch. Trimming was not necessary to hold altitude, even in 45-degree banks. Slow flight was easily controllable suggesting landing would be very manageable. It was and my first touchdown showed this Tucano has very good manners. Throughout all maneuvers, visibility is glorious, a panorama in any direction except straight down. From the aft seat the wing blocked my downward view though it looked better from the front seat where you solo. The downside to that expanse of acrylic is heating in the summer in places like Texas, where Flying Legend USA is based. Additional air inlets are in the works.

The LSA version of Tucano has fixed gear and prop plus a 100 horsepower Rotax 912.

Our Video Pilot Report to follow will have more information recorded immediately after flight when the memories of details were the freshest, so watch for that on Light Sport and Ultralight Flyer YouTube channel. Building Tucano is fastest with their Quick-Build Kit which generously reduces time needed for assembly to "200-250 hours," said Flying Legend USA. More on the kit Tucano is available here. Flying Legend has kits for fuselage, wing, empennage, flight controls, fixed landing gear, aluminium tank, and canopy plus all the hardware required for assembly. For those who prefer, a builder assist program in Archer Texas can help with the assembly. Let's go aloft for a short video experience in the Tucano replica. https://youtu.be/9VzHmDTMT5c

On Day 3 of Copperstate at the Buckeye Air Fair, crowds were again strong and the skies gradually cleared for another day of flying in the smoothest air I’ve felt in some time. What made this extra special was a chance to go aloft in the Flying Legend Tucano Replica, a scaled down version of a well-known Brazilian military aircraft. Indeed, the fighter-like shape and paint job of Tucano beckoned convincingly and I went aloft with Flying Legend USA representative, Giovanni Matichecchia …yeah, I told him I’d just call him Giovanni. He grinned and said his last name was tough even for Italians. This capable 27-year-old pilot is off to the airlines one day but is doing a fine job of demonstration flying Tucano for media types like me and potential buyers of this eye-catching machine. Flying Legend’s Tucano is a scale replica of well-regarded original.

Copperstate Day 2 — Big Crowds Plus Flying Sling TSi with Rotax 915 Power: Superb!

By Dan Johnson || February 9, 2019 4 Comments (Edit)

I have to admit my pleasant surprise. This tie-up of Copperstate and Buckeye Air Fair might be exactly what is needed to generate a major show in the Southwestern USA.

Let me be fair. Other West Coast aviation events have interesting qualities but none has ever risen to the level of AirVenture Oshkosh or Sun 'n Fun. Those two dominate general aviation events. Both are "back East." With big pilot and aircraft populations in California, Arizona, and Washington, why have we no major shows in the West? No one I've asked can explain the riddle but could Copperstate Buckeye Air Fair be the right combination? Only time will tell yet on Saturday, crowds were as thick as Oshkosh, albeit in a much smaller area. City planners offered an airshow and lots for attendees to look at plus the Copperstate trade show alongside the Buckeye Air Fair gave the public close access to pilots operating all manner of light aircraft.

Serious airplane buyers encouraged vendors on Thursday before the public attended. They came out in huge droves on Saturday. Vice Mayor Eric Orsborn, whom I interviewed on video, estimated 15-20,000 people that day. It looked like it and we have video proof. By the way, Eric is not only a city leader, he's a pilot who just earned his ticket. His wife is also pursuing flying lessons and is going through ground school now. If Sunday is equally strong, most will consider this pairing of city air fair with industry trade show to be a resounding success. Vice Mayor Eric said the city was very pleased about the link-up and sees good things in the future.

Flying The Airplane Factory Sling TSi

A year ago, I got to fly the 915 in Wels, Austria at a Rotax journalist event after Aero Friedrichshafen.

In two quickly linked flights, they let me compare 915 to 912iS. That was most helpful but I did not know either airframe well so it was challenging to compare performance with my earlier experiences. Now, I have a better picture. At Copperstate a couple years ago I flew Sling 4 with Rotax's 914 Turbo. I was very impressed, feeling it flew as well as the Sling LSA. Dare I admit I actually liked the four seater's flight qualities better than the LSA? Like Sling 4, Sling TSi is not a Light-Sport Aircraft. It cannot be flown with the Sport Pilot certificate. Several reasons explain why, even though the new model closely resembles the Sling LSA. First, it's a four seater. Secondly, it has much higher power. That's allowed but the Rotax 915 engine currently requires a constant speed prop not permitted under LSA regulations — though perhaps in a couple years. The Turbo Intercooled 915iS energized the Sling 4 airframe much more than the 914. The difference was clear.

Acceleration was fast, we rolled less than 500 feet and climbed quickly from the start and kept going. Jean d'Assonville and I flew perhaps 300 pounds under gross but CPS Rotax specialist Bryan Toepfer said it did well when loaded to the limit on a flight he experienced. Thirdly, Sling TSi is too fast and too heavy to be a LSA. Here's something important… this is not Sling 4. Oh, it appears so similar that I would not have known without closer inspection. Instead, Sling TSi is a nearly brand-new aircraft from nose to tail, literally. The distinctive Sling nose cowl has also changed subtly, better accommodating the 915 and its new hardware. Aft of the engine compartment, Sling TSi uses dimpled flush rivets on the front portion of the fuselage and on the leading edge of the wings. This clearly works to pick up the speed of Sling TSi without raising its stall speed.

The wing itself is a fresh new airfoil and wingspan is about 16 inches shorter on each side. The tailplane has counterbalanced surfaces to reduce chances of flutter given Sling TSi's speedier ways. Aloft we saw 128 knots at modest cruise power and 3,500 feet MSL. Coming out to the show Jean and Wayne reported seeing better than 160 knots TAS and 180 knots GPS groundspeed, thanks to a tailwind. Fuel burn was a bit over six gallons an hour. Climb out of Buckeye (1,000 foot field elevation on a cool day) averaged 1,000 fpm and we saw 1,500-1,800 fpm on successive climbs from a touch and go.

Stalls in all configurations were very mild, even with full stick aft and no quick effort of recovery. At full power, Sling TSi would not stall and only wobbled the nose to signal the pilot — well, that and a clearly audible stall warning plus a very steep deck angle. Handling was very responsive but steady with a light touch even in steeply banked 720 turns. My efforts at dutch rolling produced acceptable results either fast or slow. The landing was straightforward. Sling TSi manages energy very well — an LSA-like feel, it had — making roundout and touchdown quite easy. Visibility is good, a very good thing at a busy Buckeye Municipal (KBXK) when numerous airplanes entered the pattern to pay a visit. In all, Sling TSi is a commendable achievement, a further refinement of the original Sling LSA introduced in 2009. In that decade, Sling has delivered more than 500 aircraft, Jean indicated. We recorded a full Video Pilot Report with cameras on and in the airplane. When it's done in editing, this will provide much more detail and very few complaints about The Airplane Factory's Sling TSi. Well done, Mike Blyth and team, well done indeed! Find more factory info on Sling TSi here and catch a video glimpse below. https://youtu.be/JVH2Gt0BNEU

I have to admit my pleasant surprise. This tie-up of Copperstate and Buckeye Air Fair might be exactly what is needed to generate a major show in the Southwestern USA. Let me be fair. Other West Coast aviation events have interesting qualities but none has ever risen to the level of AirVenture Oshkosh or Sun ‘n Fun. Those two dominate general aviation events. Both are “back East.” With big pilot and aircraft populations in California, Arizona, and Washington, why have we no major shows in the West? No one I’ve asked can explain the riddle but could Copperstate Buckeye Air Fair be the right combination? Only time will tell yet on Saturday, crowds were as thick as Oshkosh, albeit in a much smaller area. City planners offered an airshow and lots for attendees to look at plus the Copperstate trade show alongside the Buckeye Air Fair gave the public close access to pilots operating all manner of light aircraft.

Copperstate Day 1 — Wild Sky’s Goat, a Special Light-Sport Aircraft Trike Built to Last

By Dan Johnson || February 9, 2019 6 Comments (Edit)

The Copperstate airshow is on in Arizona! Put on by a new combination of Copperstate leadership in cooperation with the town of Buckeye Arizona — which has been hosting its own Buckeye Air Fair — the new event is off and running in its new time slot of early February. For most of its 46-year-long life Copperstate has been in October. Showing the city's support, both Buckeye's Mayor and Vice Mayor were present at opening evening ceremonies. Some 20,000 people are expected. Videoman Dave and I are on-site and working. We've already captured a few new interviews for you. On Day 1, one aircraft in particular caught our eyes.

Wild Sky Goat

In many years of reporting on light aircraft, I have flown a lot of weight shift control trikes. I love flying trikes. I've flown simple ones, super-deluxe ones, tough ones, and ones that weren't so tough. Most I enjoyed. Yet I've never seen one built so sturdily as Wild Sky Aircraft's Goat. This is one beefy, big-boy trike. This flying machine also escaped my ever-searching radar scan for new Special Light-Sport Aircraft approvals. Having just added it to our list since arriving in Arizona, Goat clocks in at #148 on our popular SLSA List. "Denny Reed, owner of Wild Sky Aircraft, is an amazing engineer who for years looked for a really heavy-duty adventure aircraft," said Sid Lloyd of Kestrel Aviation Services. "Finally he gave up and decided to build the ultimate adventure platform himself. With over 8,000 hours of instructor time in trikes, he knew exactly what he wanted." Sid sells aircraft from Flight Design and Aeroprakt plus Wild Sky and runs the builder-assist center for Goat kit assembly at his operation near Sedona, Arizona. While Wild Sky has SLSA approval and can fully build, Denny said he prefers his customer build their own kit.

"Talk about heavy-duty, this is simply the roughest, toughest Weight Shift Control (WSC) trike in the world," said Sid. After my own close look at Goat, I cannot dispute his description. "Our impact testing exceeded 6 feet high at maximum gross weight in several configurations & trajectories," explained Denny. ASTM requires that a trike be dropped in various ways including nosewheel first …but from 16 inches, not six feet. I've seen these kinds of tests; they are very demanding of an airframe. "Finally," Denny added, "we focused on short take off & landing (STOL) with emphasis on being easy to setup & transport coupled with “easy-to-fly.”

"Goat is one of a kind, said Denny. "It doesn’t need special care. It is not fragile. It just needs good fuel, your respect, and a little love once in a while. If anybody can build something better, we’d like to be your first customers. Until then, we’re looking to build our team of true adventurers. We hope to share what we’ve learned & hope to learn from you too." "After all, aviation is not about the planes, it’s about what you do with them." Who can argue with Reed's logic? Here's a quick (2-minute) teaser video about Goat: https://youtu.be/zBwU02qt2xQ

The Copperstate airshow is on in Arizona! Put on by a new combination of Copperstate leadership in cooperation with the town of Buckeye Arizona — which has been hosting its own Buckeye Air Fair — the new event is off and running in its new time slot of early February. For most of its 46-year-long life Copperstate has been in October. Showing the city’s support, both Buckeye’s Mayor and Vice Mayor were present at opening evening ceremonies. Some 20,000 people are expected. Videoman Dave and I are on-site and working. We’ve already captured a few new interviews for you. On Day 1, one aircraft in particular caught our eyes. Wild Sky Goat In many years of reporting on light aircraft, I have flown a lot of weight shift control trikes. I love flying trikes. I’ve flown simple ones, super-deluxe ones, tough ones, and ones that weren’t so tough.