Dan Johnson, Author at ByDanJohnson.com

Breezer II, Part II, Act I… All-Metal LSA Redux

By Dan Johnson || March 2, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

It didn't work out the first time. Breezer I wasn't quite mature for market. The import structure was unwieldy adding cost and distancing the customer from the source. As Breezer Aircraft took over manufacturing of the all-metal LSA, Breezer II arrived in 2008 joining new leadership in Europe with fresh representation in the USA. *** As of Sebring 2010, central Florida light aircraft guru Mike Zidziunas -- or simply "Mike Z" -- will become the point man for Breezer Aircraft USA. And he'll handle things differently from most LSA sellers. His plan is more like that used successfully by Cirrus. The source of the airplanes handles the whole country using representatives in various areas as touch points. "I feel that the conventional dealer network is ponderous and it's difficult to control the quality of service," expressed Mike. "To address service after the sale, when we deliver the airplane we offer as part of the purchase of the airplane a 5-hour FITS-style pilot training program. Insurance companies love this. But we also train the customer's maintenance person at their home airport." *** So, recapping: you buy an airplane from Breezer Aircraft USA; Mike will assemble, register, and fly it to your home field. He'll train you for five hours and he'll train your maintenance person. If problems arise, he'll come fix them. That may be too much service provided to sell a large number of airplanes but buyers are likely to feel pampered. Interestingly, this business model is used in the bizjet and exotic car markets as well. *** Read my upcoming full-length pilot report on Breezer II in the April 2010 edition of Light Sport and Ultralight Flying.

It didn’t work out the first time. Breezer I wasn’t quite mature for market. The import structure was unwieldy adding cost and distancing the customer from the source. As Breezer Aircraft took over manufacturing of the all-metal LSA, Breezer II arrived in 2008 joining new leadership in Europe with fresh representation in the USA. *** As of Sebring 2010, central Florida light aircraft guru Mike Zidziunas — or simply “Mike Z” — will become the point man for Breezer Aircraft USA. And he’ll handle things differently from most LSA sellers. His plan is more like that used successfully by Cirrus. The source of the airplanes handles the whole country using representatives in various areas as touch points. “I feel that the conventional dealer network is ponderous and it’s difficult to control the quality of service,” expressed Mike. “To address service after the sale, when we deliver the airplane we offer as part of the purchase of the airplane a 5-hour FITS-style pilot training program.

Light-Sport Represents 20-25% of GA Piston Sales

By Dan Johnson || February 27, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Market Crunch -- After the market fall of the last two years (like the snow-laden roof that crashed on a small flock of bizjets), LSA could recover first, thanks to lower purchase and operation costs. Balancing that... after five years of LSA, the entire industry still represents less than 1% of all single engine aircraft in America.

It has to get better! According to GAMA, the organization which represents the Type Certified aircraft world, "2009 worldwide shipments of general aviation airplanes declined for a second year in a row with a total of 2,276 units delivered, a 42.6 percent decrease over the previous year's total of 3,967 airplanes." However, GAMA numbers include twins and turbines, which include all bizjets. *** A fairer comparison to Light-Sport compares only piston aircraft. Here GAMA says, "The piston airplane segment experienced the greatest decline at 54.5 percent. Shipments totaled 965 airplanes in 2009, compared to 2,119 unit airplanes in 2008." *** Think about those two numbers. They compare to 234 LSA in the difficult year of 2009, down 42% from 2008's 406-unit performance. LSA sales -- as measured by aircraft N-number registrations -- show the ratios between general aviation and Light-Sport. In 2009 LSA sales equated to 24% of GA piston sales; both figures are industry-wide. In 2008 the ratio was 19%, so while significantly off, LSA did slightly better than GA piston sales in 2009. *** LSA registration numbers are down from 2007 (565 fixed wing aircraft registered) and 2006 (491). But discounting economic woes, the figures appear to show that LSA represent somewhere between 20 and 25% of GA piston sales and I predict this share will rise, with LSA becoming closer to 33 to 50% of all piston sales. *** When will that happen? It could be another five years, allowing for four factors: general economic recovery; increased acceptance of the LSA concept; continued adoption of ASTM standards in more countries; and the opening of potentially giant markets like China and India. Some experts believe global interest in LSA will also stimulate U.S. sales.

It has to get better! According to GAMA, the organization which represents the Type Certified aircraft world, “2009 worldwide shipments of general aviation airplanes declined for a second year in a row with a total of 2,276 units delivered, a 42.6 percent decrease over the previous year’s total of 3,967 airplanes.” However, GAMA numbers include twins and turbines, which include all bizjets. *** A fairer comparison to Light-Sport compares only piston aircraft. Here GAMA says, “The piston airplane segment experienced the greatest decline at 54.5 percent. Shipments totaled 965 airplanes in 2009, compared to 2,119 unit airplanes in 2008.” *** Think about those two numbers. They compare to 234 LSA in the difficult year of 2009, down 42% from 2008’s 406-unit performance. LSA sales — as measured by aircraft N-number registrations — show the ratios between general aviation and Light-Sport. In 2009 LSA sales equated to 24% of GA piston sales; both figures are industry-wide.

NH:SPLog home page

By Dan Johnson || February 26, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

...a web log of developments in Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft Most recent 20 postings. Click here to see the next most recent 20 SPLOG posts.

…a web log of developments in Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft Most recent 20 postings. Click here to see the next most recent 20 SPLOG posts.

Writing about Aircraft…

By Dan Johnson || February 26, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Photo courtesy EAA

I'm not really one to blow my own horn (though you could be fooled by the frequency with which my name appears on this site). Still some visitors want to know the person behind the pilot reports, SPLOGs, videos, and our several Lists. In my magazine writing days it was only my name that appeared in articles ... that's where the "By Dan Johnson" website name started. Now, with web resources and videos, many of you recognize me at airshows. Thanks for the kind comments often received but I'd rather you focused on the content we offer here. For those genuinely interested, this section of the web site will tell you some things about me. We offer some news about our enterprise here but we hope our content speaks for our work. And I've included a short biography for those that truly want to know more about me; I should hope this is more than enough. As with all parts of this site, the "About ByDanJohnson" area will see regular changes. Check back from time to time — but really ... you're here for the airplanes. So, go enjoy! Dan Johnson Media Corp 2001 Steamboat Ridge Court Port Orange FL 32128-6918 P.S. I'd be remiss if I didn't thank my superb webmaster, Dan Barker, who helps edit this site and provides invaluable assistance in many areas.

I’m not really one to blow my own horn (though you could be fooled by the frequency with which my name appears on this site). Still some visitors want to know the person behind the pilot reports, SPLOGs, videos, and our several Lists. In my magazine writing days it was only my name that appeared in articles … that’s where the “By Dan Johnson” website name started. Now, with web resources and videos, many of you recognize me at airshows. Thanks for the kind comments often received but I’d rather you focused on the content we offer here. For those genuinely interested, this section of the web site will tell you some things about me. We offer some news about our enterprise here but we hope our content speaks for our work. And I’ve included a short biography for those that truly want to know more about me; I should hope this is more than enough.

NH:SPLog next 20

By Dan Johnson || February 26, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

...a web log of developments in Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft Second most recent 20 postings. Continue reading more SPLOG posts. Click here to see our index, organized by date.

…a web log of developments in Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft Second most recent 20 postings. Continue reading more SPLOG posts. Click here to see our index, organized by date.

NH:Splog index

By Dan Johnson || February 26, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

...a web log of developments in Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft Complete SPLOG Index of titles.

…a web log of developments in Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft Complete SPLOG Index of titles.

New Tandem SLSA Headed to Market

By Dan Johnson || February 20, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

New Tandem -- The A-16 Sport Falcon is a handsome, all-metal tandem aircraft designed for ease of entry -- as shown top right by company proprietor Dave Saunders -- and huge visibility. Its closest cousin among existing LSA is the Italian Sky Arrow but Sport Falcon is substantially roomier inside ...and it is a Made-in-America design. Demo pilot Dan Rivera models at lower left.

Most of our tandem Special Light-Sport Aircraft -- Legend Cub, Courier, SportCub, Savage, Hornet, Hawk, and SkyArrow -- are recreational airplanes. Except for the last one (Italy's smooth, composite Sky Arrow) most might also fall into the "bush" category in that they are slower-flying, fabric-covered, rugged aircraft suitable for landing on unimproved airstrips. *** A brand-new tandem, not yet officially a SLSA, is the MySky MS-1, which I call a "performance tandem." MS-1 aims to go as fast as the category allows (120 knots) using its beefy 120-hp Jabiru 3300 powerplant. MySky's entry also plans a deluxe interior not found in most currently-approved tandem SLSA. *** Recently I trekked to California to fly a few hours in the A-16 Sport Falcon from AviaDesign. Company principal, Dave Saunders, has enjoyed a long, successful career creating structural improvements for larger aircraft, including several Beech models, and he has now turned his attention to Light-Sport Aircraft, partly as it means less dealing with FAA and its bureaucracy. *** I'll report more as this aircraft comes to market, but regarding my experience flying A-16: ** entry is about as easy as it gets, thanks to the "air stair" (just like some larger aircraft have; see photo); ** the interior is spacious and comfortable, more so than many other LSA; ** handling is predictable with no bad traits I could uncover; ** the airplane is well equipped and expects to have a price somewhere in the $110,000 range though this decision is still being reviewed; ** visibility is enormous, with the pilot sitting about four feet in front of the wing. Even the aft seat has good room, very good visibility, and full controls... it turns out my smoothest landings were from the rear.

Most of our tandem Special Light-Sport Aircraft — Legend Cub, Courier, SportCub, Savage, Hornet, Hawk, and SkyArrow — are recreational airplanes. Except for the last one (Italy’s smooth, composite Sky Arrow) most might also fall into the “bush” category in that they are slower-flying, fabric-covered, rugged aircraft suitable for landing on unimproved airstrips. *** A brand-new tandem, not yet officially a SLSA, is the MySky MS-1, which I call a “performance tandem.” MS-1 aims to go as fast as the category allows (120 knots) using its beefy 120-hp Jabiru 3300 powerplant. MySky’s entry also plans a deluxe interior not found in most currently-approved tandem SLSA. *** Recently I trekked to California to fly a few hours in the A-16 Sport Falcon from AviaDesign.

Something New in Aviation? Fly a “Hang ‘Copter!”

By Dan Johnson || February 10, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

I readily admit to being a hang glider pilot at heart. After flying several hundred airplanes, I still consider flying a hang glider to be perhaps THE purest way to fly. I've always said that if I could just snap my fingers and be in the air -- oh, that it was so simple and quick! -- I would always choose a hang glider to experience the magic of flight. *** But how about "hang 'copter" flying? Huh!?! I've got almost no time in rotary aircraft but I was caught by some video showing a fellow flying a hang glider with a rotor blade doing the lifting instead of Dacron wings. It struck me as kind of crazy ...yes, even a hang glider pilot who loves flying off a mountain. But there it is, looking pretty sane, actually. Near the end of the video, the pilot waves comfortably to the camera before executing a very normal looking landing (well, normal to a hang glider pilot if not a jet jockey). > Though an Internet search will uncover plenty of reports about a gyroglider (an unpowered gyrocopter), this is the first I've seen of weight-shift control for a rotary-winged hang glider. It was reportedly built by a Russian named Shumeyko in the early 1990s. *** I love to think about how FAA or NTSB would regard this. Though I lack detail, it appears the whole rig might qualify as a Part 103 ultralight vehicle, meaning no pilot license is required nor is vehicle registration or any of those other trappings of government control. Go freedom of flight! Let's see more of this unabashed experimentation when it can be done safely. Thanks to my video collaborator, Dave Loveman of UltralightNews.com for alerting me to this new way to fly.

I readily admit to being a hang glider pilot at heart. After flying several hundred airplanes, I still consider flying a hang glider to be perhaps THE purest way to fly. I’ve always said that if I could just snap my fingers and be in the air — oh, that it was so simple and quick! — I would always choose a hang glider to experience the magic of flight. *** But how about “hang ‘copter” flying? Huh!?! I’ve got almost no time in rotary aircraft but I was caught by some video showing a fellow flying a hang glider with a rotor blade doing the lifting instead of Dacron wings. It struck me as kind of crazy …yes, even a hang glider pilot who loves flying off a mountain. But there it is, looking pretty sane, actually. Near the end of the video, the pilot waves comfortably to the camera before executing a very normal looking landing (well, normal to a hang glider pilot if not a jet jockey).

NH:Jim Lawrence Announcement

By Dan Johnson || February 8, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Merry Christmas 2009 from ByDanJohnson.com More LSA Content · Completely Free WORLD WIDE WEB / December 23, 2009 - A well-known aviation businessman once said, "Pilots are information starved; they read anything and everything that pertains to their area of interest." With that in mind, leading Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) website, ByDanJohnson.com, now offers a larger array of content after enlisting professional blogger, James Lawrence. James Lawrence is the LSA editor for Plane & Pilot magazine and he regularly blogs on that company's website. Now, after agreement with Plane & Pilot management, Lawrence's blogs will appear on ByDanJohnson.com -- an LSA-only Internet resource -- making it easier for those searching for the newest and latest info to find more of it with a single click. Lawrence is also a widely seen photographer of hundreds of cover photos, pilot report photos, and more. His work has also appeared in Outdoor Photographer. The blog postings by two LSA veteran writers on a website dedicated to this newest sector of aviation adds to the user experience and all such content is offered for free and without even the need to register at the website. ByDanJohnson.com expects more than 200 postings a year and each is accompanied with photos and graphics to make the reading more lively and informative. "We already know that many persons of influence in aviation frequent our website if they want to track developments in Light-Sport Aircraft," reported Dan Johnson. "Now those writers, editors, businessmen, or government leaders who use our resources have more reason to visit regularly. In addition to the blog postings that start on the home page, ByDanJohnson.com archives all postings on the website, making a significant historical record in the development of this new aviation segment and all two million words are searchable (Search results even include photos). Other services available for free on the website include: LSA Market Info - A collection of articles about the business of Light-Sport Aircraft SLSA List - An always up-to-date listing of all aircraft with Special LSA approval FIRM List - A comprehensive list of more than 340 entries to find Light-Sport Aircraft flight instruction, rentals or maintenance facilities LSA Videos - More than 30 short reviews of popular Light-Sport Aircraft PlaneFinder 2.0 - "Find the Best LSA for You" using our simple, one-of-a-kind system LSA Database - Search on ByDanJohnson.com to find companies, contact info and more Variety Articles - Many articles are free (fees are charged only for full-length pilot reports)

Merry Christmas 2009 from ByDanJohnson.com More LSA Content · Completely Free WORLD WIDE WEB / December 23, 2009 – A well-known aviation businessman once said, “Pilots are information starved; they read anything and everything that pertains to their area of interest.” With that in mind, leading Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) website, ByDanJohnson.com, now offers a larger array of content after enlisting professional blogger, James Lawrence. James Lawrence is the LSA editor for Plane & Pilot magazine and he regularly blogs on that company’s website. Now, after agreement with Plane & Pilot management, Lawrence’s blogs will appear on ByDanJohnson.com — an LSA-only Internet resource — making it easier for those searching for the newest and latest info to find more of it with a single click. Lawrence is also a widely seen photographer of hundreds of cover photos, pilot report photos, and more. His work has also appeared in Outdoor Photographer. The blog postings by two LSA veteran writers on a website dedicated to this newest sector of aviation adds to the user experience and all such content is offered for free and without even the need to register at the website.

Sebring Revs to High Speed; Catch the Videos

By Dan Johnson || February 2, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Sebring Video -- UltralightNews.com) and I have been working hard to provide lots of short aircraft reviews and general views of Sebring 2010. The sixth annual show is already judged a success. Check the video on YouTube.

Sebring is off and flying... well, like a homesick angel! It appears the sixth running of the show is as strong as it's ever been. Tim Casey -- head guru of Garmin's division for aviation portables plus avionics and radios used in nearly every LSA on the market -- told me this evening, "I think traffic is nearly double last year [a record year for Sebring]. We completely ran out of literature on the second day!" The giant producer reported solid sales of equipment including their lovely new touchscreen Aera and their complete info glass screen package, dubbed the G3X. *** My pal, Jim Lawrence has been pumping out the blogs as you've seen right here (does this guy ever sleep?!) and more will come. In addition, my video partner, UltralightNews, has been working both of us hard to build up a flock of cool video clips. See the highlights here with a coming quick-take tour of the entire show grounds (see below)... followed in the weeks ahead by our continuing review of every Light-Sport Aircraft on the market. Thanks to UltralightNews's prodigious video production capability, we are now about half-way through the 105 models of SLSA on the market. We even got Rose Pelton to stand for an interview of her very own Skycatcher. Rose is Cessna CEO Jack Pelton's lovely wife and, yes, the first Skycatcher went to her so she can pursue her Private Pilot license. *** We'll have LOTS more to come; click back here often to see all the latest and greatest in the LSA world. [UPDATE 1/25/10: Race around Sebring 2010 with UltralightNews and me as we give you a quick tour of many aircraft displayed at the just-concluded Sebring LSA Expo event. We provide a brief description and a few facts about each aircraft plus their web address for fuller details. It's fun and fast... Quick Tour Part 1 or Quick Tour Part 2.]

Sebring is off and flying… well, like a homesick angel! It appears the sixth running of the show is as strong as it’s ever been. Tim Casey — head guru of Garmin‘s division for aviation portables plus avionics and radios used in nearly every LSA on the market — told me this evening, “I think traffic is nearly double last year [a record year for Sebring]. We completely ran out of literature on the second day!” The giant producer reported solid sales of equipment including their lovely new touchscreen Aera and their complete info glass screen package, dubbed the G3X. *** My pal, Jim Lawrence has been pumping out the blogs as you’ve seen right here (does this guy ever sleep?!) and more will come. In addition, my video partner, UltralightNews, has been working both of us hard to build up a flock of cool video clips. See the highlights here with a coming quick-take tour of the entire show grounds (see below)… followed in the weeks ahead by our continuing review of every Light-Sport Aircraft on the market.

Getting Into the PiperSport LSA

By Dan Johnson || February 2, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Legacy Brands -- Piper took a different approach from Cessna -- choosing to distribute an established LSA -- and didn't make the errors of Cirrus (who took so long to "Cirrus-ize" the SRS that the economy put the project on hold). The lower left photo shows the PiperSport "Go Team" of marketer Jackie Carlon (L), CEO Kevin Gould (C), with VP and PiperSport Project Manager Derek Zimmerman (R).

What a way to start the year. Piper called a press conference at Sebring and like no other I've seen after attending all six Expo events, the media turned out in droves. On opening day the legacy brand unveiled their LSA entry at Sebring 2010 (it was also their first exhibitor appearance). Camera clicked constantly, videos whirred, and recording devices captured every uttered word. It may not have been as spectacular as Apple's iPad media event, but it generated the same kind of intense buzz. Here's a few facts I haven't seen in the other generous media coverage. *** Piper is a 72-year-old much-storied producer of 140,000 airplanes. They have certified 160 models (50% more than the incredible output of all LSA producers combined). They span the general aviation spectrum from the $120,000 PiperSport to the $2.2 million PiperJet. The company's iconic Piper Cub inspired two replica LSA producers (American Legend and CubCrafters), whose aircraft comprise two of the top five among all LSA manufacturers... and the only two of the top eight SLSA that are built in the USA. *** As recently as last summer no one forecast Piper's entry, again illustrating the dynamic and fast-developing nature of Light-Sport Aircraft. But the company is gung-ho on the sector. CEO Kevin Gould said, "Piper is entering what is undeniably one of the most exciting market segments in general aviation." *** In a move I consider savvy, Piper will keep all existing SportCruiser dealers adding them to 27 Piper Aircraft dealers, 65 service centers, and 2,500 field personnel. Watch for my full-length pilot report coming in the March 2010 issue of Light Sport & Ultralight Flying, which will be posted here by spring.

What a way to start the year. Piper called a press conference at Sebring and like no other I’ve seen after attending all six Expo events, the media turned out in droves. On opening day the legacy brand unveiled their LSA entry at Sebring 2010 (it was also their first exhibitor appearance). Camera clicked constantly, videos whirred, and recording devices captured every uttered word. It may not have been as spectacular as Apple’s iPad media event, but it generated the same kind of intense buzz. Here’s a few facts I haven’t seen in the other generous media coverage. *** Piper is a 72-year-old much-storied producer of 140,000 airplanes. They have certified 160 models (50% more than the incredible output of all LSA producers combined). They span the general aviation spectrum from the $120,000 PiperSport to the $2.2 million PiperJet. The company’s iconic Piper Cub inspired two replica LSA producers (American Legend and CubCrafters), whose aircraft comprise two of the top five among all LSA manufacturers… and the only two of the top eight SLSA that are built in the USA.

Going Multimedia (Reluctantly at First)

By Dan Johnson || January 28, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

LSA Videos -- Direct from Sebring 2010... thanks to ultrafast editing by UltralightNews -- here are quick takes (top left, clockwise) on Rose Pelton's own Skycatcher; Belite Aircraft's Part 103 ultralight vehicles; the just-announced PiperSport; and the HKS-powered Quasar Lite.

Lots of other aviation news organizations embraced multimedia before ByDanJohnson.com did. We figured online was already quite lively with hyperlinks and true interactivity as represented by our exclusive PlaneFinder 2.0 feature. *** About a year ago, of UltralightNews approached me with an idea to do brief reviews of LSA. I accepted his invitation and today we are well on our way to having a 4-8 minute video mini-review for each of the 105 SLSA on the market. Other professional outlets like AvWeb, ANN, AOPA, and EAA offer multimedia topics all over the aviation map, but ByDanJohnson.com maintains a tight focus on all manner of light aircraft flown by Sport Pilots. *** With that manifesto in mind, we observe for you that we just posted new reviews on our LSA Videos page and we invite you to watch these... for free and without even having to register. That's the Internet way, though I hope you will consider signing up as a member for only $29 a year -- you can read hundreds of full-length pilots reports for the fee. *** After Sebring 2010, Loveman and I have made short videos of about 50 of the 105 SLSA plus a few other interesting aircraft in the Light-Sport space. We hope you enjoy them all. You can see these here or on UltralightNews' YouTube channel, which helps enlarge the number of viewers. But if you view them right here, you'll get a short paragraph to help you decide which ones to watch plus an easy hyperlink to all other content we have on that aircraft including all contact info. By this means, we think ByDanJohnson.com is delivering more value than other LSA resources. Go enjoy! They are fun, fast, factual, and free.

Light-Sport Aircraft Market Shares through 2009

By Dan Johnson || January 17, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Better Times Ahead? -- Along with the rest of the U.S. and global economy, we expect much improved results for light aviation in 2010. Numerous indications appear to suggest good trends but questions remain, for example, FAA actions based on their 2008/2009 Assessment Project.

If you refer back to our earlier reports, you can easily see 2009 was a down year (no surprise, right?). General aviation was off more than 50% and Light-Sport was down badly as well, with 42% less registrations than in 2008. *** With this post, we present our now-somewhat-famous chart. We hear from some who say they prefer the info to be broken out for the last year only and I will give a summary of those figures below. We realize the limitations of such a brief portrayal of the market situation. But to maintain consistency from chart to chart, we continue to present the relative market shares since the first registrations were filed back in April 2005. *** However, I did omit two listings as they recorded no new entries for more than two years. Interplane and Jihlavan technically rank in the top 20 but their inactivity resulted in a drop from the chart. I also dropped Sky Arrow as its producer is under court management. Fantasy Air ceased operations in the Czech Republic but Allegro USA is working to restart production in America, so we continue to show their strong initial performance. Urban Air, which remains on the chart, has stopped manufacturing. If I omitted the Lambada builder, Paradise would make the top 20. *** My excellent associate, Jan Fridrich -- who compiles this info from FAA's registration database -- works hard to determine which aircraft are truly SLSA (and not ELSA or other categories) and it remains a struggle due to FAA's data entry procedures. This is why we cannot show trikes or powered parachutes, with regrets. Given the preceding statements, we believe this to be an accurate list. Many hours go into this effort and Jan deserves a hearty thanks. *** FOR 2009... it was a lousy year and I will not present the same chart detail. But here are the top 10 brands with the most FAA registrations for the year: Remos (32); Czech Aircraft Works/Czech Sport Aircraft (31); CubCrafters (24); Flight Design and Tecnam (tied at 20); RANS (18); Jabiru US (11); American Legend, Aerotrek (Aeropro), and Skykits (tied at 7). *** REMEMBER -- All numbers are FAA registrations and not sales. Each company may have slightly different data to report.

Sebring — Light-Sport Aviation’s Season Opener

By Dan Johnson || January 15, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

LSA Season Starter -- For enthusiasts of LSA, Sebring is a Must-Go event that is all LSA and nothing but LSA. C'mon down to warm & sunny Florida and see the latest and greatest.

If you like LSA or if you are following the development of this newest sector in worldwide aviation, you pretty much have to go to Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo. The sixth annual event opens in less than a week and it looks to be yet-another blockbuster affair. Here I'll provide a few highlights, but I also expect to be surprised by some new presentations. *** The first airshow of a new decade may show a new hope for recovery in aviation. One of the biggest buzzes has to do with Piper Aircraft and their possible entry to LSA (as has been been widely reported). This matter is not settled yet but Piper will have an exhibit at Sebring (itself something new). *** We'll also see the tandem high-performance MySky MS-1, a U.S. design that is moving closer to production; the new and beautiful P2008, the first to employ composite construction from Tecnam; and attendees can have a look at Rose Pelton's own Skycatcher, which will be on display in Cessna's space. This is conforming example #1 of the Skycatcher. *** We should also see the TL-3000 Sirius [UPDATE 1/16/10 -- Sirius will not appear as all arriving models are already sold]; Legend said they are bringing their now-for-sale AmphibCub, and a closer-to-production version of the Flight Design MC. Sebring '10 will also be the chance for LSA fans to see AOPA's Fun-to-Fly Sweepstakes Remos GX; this is the big member organization's first appearance with an exhibit at Sebring. *** Sebring will be Garmin's first unveiling to the LSA community of their impressive new touch-screen Aera GPS and Dynon will be showing their gorgeous new SkyView digital instrument series. *** In other (boring but important) news, I am heading an ASTM Task Group to prepare an official ASTM Audit Standard. The Task Group hopes to have this "nearly ready for ballot" at Sebring as a means of showing FAA that this industry is truly moving with its oversight programs. Cessna and FAA have appointed persons to assist this Task Group, showing the seriousness with which this effort is being taken. *** In equally dull but vital news, FAA will be gathering with selected builders in at least two sessions. And finally, FAA's Light-Sport Joint Safety Committee will be meeting at the close of the ASTM meetings just before Sebring begins. In all... WHEW!

Flight Testing Light-Sport Aircraft; How It’s Done

By Dan Johnson || January 14, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Testing, testing... This series shows views of Flight Design flight testing their new all-metal MC. From bottom right clockwise -- joystick measuring device; sensor on rudder; wingtip probe; test pilot and video host, Tim-Peter Voss; MC in flight (probe circled).

Much has been written about Cessna's Skycatcher incidents, those spin investigations that caused the loss of one airplane and a parachute deployment from another. Of course, the giant producer knows well the design of light aircraft so it was only a matter of time before all problems were solved. In doing these spin tests, Cessna said they went beyond the ASTM standards, which also call for spin evaluation. (That's fine. ASTM specifications are intended to be minimum standards; going beyond them is the decision of each company.) *** A new video from Flight Design does a professional job of showing viewers around the aircraft and its test equipment. Check out the YouTube version. Produced by Flight Design test pilot Tim-Peter Voss and his brother Ben, the videographer, we learn that the process no longer depends on a test pilot manually recording results because electronic devices measure more accurately and in real time. After downloading the data from a flash drive to a laptop, engineers evaluate the results. While the facts and explanation are interesting, the video also takes us through a few maneuvers. *** Some folks believe ASTM standards are simplistic specifications to certify an aircraft. But that shortchanges those industry consensus requirements. As the draft author of the standard for airframe parachutes I can assure you that ASTM requirements go beyond FAA's Special Conditions for installing a 'chute on Type Certified aircraft. Get more info on ASTM standards.

Much has been written about Cessna’s Skycatcher incidents, those spin investigations that caused the loss of one airplane and a parachute deployment from another. Of course, the giant producer knows well the design of light aircraft so it was only a matter of time before all problems were solved. In doing these spin tests, Cessna said they went beyond the ASTM standards, which also call for spin evaluation. (That’s fine. ASTM specifications are intended to be minimum standards; going beyond them is the decision of each company.) *** A new video from Flight Design does a professional job of showing viewers around the aircraft and its test equipment. Check out the YouTube version. Produced by Flight Design test pilot Tim-Peter Voss and his brother Ben, the videographer, we learn that the process no longer depends on a test pilot manually recording results because electronic devices measure more accurately and in real time.

Legendary “Van” Flies His Own RV-12… to Work!

By Dan Johnson || January 14, 2010 Leave a Comment (Edit)

RV-12 N912VA, known as "New Blue," is based in Maryland and was built and flown by Van's East Coast rep, Mitch Lock. Look for New Blue at Sebring and Sun 'n Fun. "Ole Blue" is the original prototype RV-6A, still soldiering along with 5,000+ hours on the airframe, said spokesman Ken Scott. Click for RV-12 specs and info.

Yes, Cessna's Light-Sport Aircraft entry helps to validate the concept of industry consensus standards in lieu of government certification. They'll populate airports with their C-162 Skycatcher as shipments ramp up in 2010. Yes, other big companies are looking at LSA -- as most LSA enthusiasts know Cirrus offered an entry though work has stalled, and late 2009 rumors hint at entry by another legacy brand. *** While it's good to see big boys coming into the game, the biggest-of-all kit builder is also playing. And, in their characteristic way, Van's Aircraft is quietly racking up sales. According to Ken Scott, "We've sold 315 [starter kits] for RV-12. Fifteen are flying and judging from the number of powerplant kits we've shipped they should start sprouting like mushrooms pretty quick." *** The company founder likes RV-12, too. Ken added, "Dick VanGrunsven and his brother Jerry recently completed and flew their personal RV-12 and Van often uses it to commute from his home to [the factory in] Aurora. *** Scott also reported that the first Australian RV-12 has flown and that several more are under construction in countries from Brazil to South Africa. *** Van's recently released an interior package for the airplane, as well as a 2-axis autopilot option. Additional options -- including dual EFIS, lighting, and wheel fairing packages -- are under development. Wiring and switching for these has been provided in all kits, so they should install easily, even into finished airplanes.

Yes, Cessna’s Light-Sport Aircraft entry helps to validate the concept of industry consensus standards in lieu of government certification. They’ll populate airports with their C-162 Skycatcher as shipments ramp up in 2010. Yes, other big companies are looking at LSA — as most LSA enthusiasts know Cirrus offered an entry though work has stalled, and late 2009 rumors hint at entry by another legacy brand. *** While it’s good to see big boys coming into the game, the biggest-of-all kit builder is also playing. And, in their characteristic way, Van’s Aircraft is quietly racking up sales. According to Ken Scott, “We’ve sold 315 [starter kits] for RV-12. Fifteen are flying and judging from the number of powerplant kits we’ve shipped they should start sprouting like mushrooms pretty quick.” *** The company founder likes RV-12, too. Ken added, “Dick VanGrunsven and his brother Jerry recently completed and flew their personal RV-12 and Van often uses it to commute from his home to [the factory in] Aurora.

Sleekest Tecnam Light-Sport Aircraft Yet

By Dan Johnson || December 31, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Composite Tecnam -- This is the first not-all-metal Tecnam aircraft we've seen in the LSA community. I fell in love with her smooth lines at Germany's Aero show in April 2009.

Tecnam can lay claim to being the "largest LSA manufacturer" by virtue of producing more than 3,000 ready-to-fly aircraft (with approximately 120 of them flying in the USA as "official LSA" -- the U.S. is a relatively new market for the Italian company). In my travels to Europe and other countries, I've seen a lot of Tecnam models sold under the rules of those nations. And the company was formed back in 1948. *** But even with all those aircraft built and many interesting designs -- such as the Echo Super, Sierra, Bravo, Eaglet, and even a new twin that isn't a LSA -- for my money, the P2008 is easily the prettiest two seater the company has ever designed. It resulted from a marriage of Tecnam, an all-metal airplane company, to Spain's CAG or Composite Aeronautic Group. The latter, bought by Tecnam, was the short-time producer of the Toxo Sportster *, a handsome all-composite LSA. Tecnam won't be producing the Toxo but P2008 pairs Tecnam's prodigious design ability with CAG's expertise in composite manufacturing. *** In America, Tecnam is represented by Tecnam North America, a talent-heavy group based in Richmond, Virginia. Among other interesting announcements (at least one of which I'm not at liberty to disclose) you'll get your first chance to see the P2008 at Sebring 2010 ...and maybe they'll even add a friendly name to the number of this gorgeous airplane. * Only a single Toxo ever entered the USA.

Tecnam can lay claim to being the “largest LSA manufacturer” by virtue of producing more than 3,000 ready-to-fly aircraft (with approximately 120 of them flying in the USA as “official LSA” — the U.S. is a relatively new market for the Italian company). In my travels to Europe and other countries, I’ve seen a lot of Tecnam models sold under the rules of those nations. And the company was formed back in 1948. *** But even with all those aircraft built and many interesting designs — such as the Echo Super, Sierra, Bravo, Eaglet, and even a new twin that isn’t a LSA — for my money, the P2008 is easily the prettiest two seater the company has ever designed. It resulted from a marriage of Tecnam, an all-metal airplane company, to Spain’s CAG or Composite Aeronautic Group. The latter, bought by Tecnam, was the short-time producer of the Toxo Sportster *, a handsome all-composite LSA.

Homebuilt Aircraft in China Begin to Take Off

By Dan Johnson || December 29, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

This superlight (84 pound) pedal-powered aircraft is built using techniques common to RC aircraft builders. It represents one of several projects taking to Chinese skies in a Do-It-Yourself movement. Photos are courtesy of the designer, Mao Yiqing, as first reported on Wired magazine's website.

"Chinese New Year" invokes images of fireworks but here's another take. We hear little or no recreational flying occurs in China, but that turns out to be wrong. According to an article in Wired magazine by by Michele Travierso, the Do-It-Yourself spirit exists even in that highly controlled country. *** A Chinese DIYer named Mao Yiqing has built a human-powered aircraft, which he calls Mozi (after the 5th century inventor of the kite), using his skills running Oxai, a company that builds RC planes. Mozi was built using many of the same techniques and materials -- balsa wood, styrofoam and carbon fiber -- as his model planes. *** Wired reports, "His workshop is covered with pictures of Eric Raymond, an American pilot who flew his solar glider across the United States and, in June, over the Alps." Yiqing is preparing his plane, which weighs 84 pounds and has a wingspan of 81 feet, for a 4-mile flight across Dianshan Lake near Shanghai. *** According to the Wired journalist, "Garage builders and innovators are, like their products, often called shanzhai. Literally translated, the term means "mountain strongholds," but it has come to mean nonprofessional or clandestine manufacturers turning out products from the basic to the highly sophisticated. *** The Wired website also offers a short YouTube movie of another DIYer flying his gyroplane, which he built for the modest sum of $1,600. It makes a good New Year's Eve read... go enjoy!

“Chinese New Year” invokes images of fireworks but here’s another take. We hear little or no recreational flying occurs in China, but that turns out to be wrong. According to an article in Wired magazine by by Michele Travierso, the Do-It-Yourself spirit exists even in that highly controlled country. *** A Chinese DIYer named Mao Yiqing has built a human-powered aircraft, which he calls Mozi (after the 5th century inventor of the kite), using his skills running Oxai, a company that builds RC planes. Mozi was built using many of the same techniques and materials — balsa wood, styrofoam and carbon fiber — as his model planes. *** Wired reports, “His workshop is covered with pictures of Eric Raymond, an American pilot who flew his solar glider across the United States and, in June, over the Alps.” Yiqing is preparing his plane, which weighs 84 pounds and has a wingspan of 81 feet, for a 4-mile flight across Dianshan Lake near Shanghai.

Ticket to Ride… er, Fly… Well, Both… Maybe

By Dan Johnson || December 26, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

"Roadable LSA" -- Flying cars of the past didn't meet with much market success but this new-millennia edition using LSA rules, modern materials, and sharp young engineers using CAD software might reinvent the category. Terrafugia's Transition has flown successfully.

You've surely seen news coverage of Terrafugia's Transition, the "roadable" LSA from a brain trust of award-winning MIT engineers in Woburn, Massachusetts. This modern version of the well-worn flying car concept has attracted plenty of media attention, and deservedly so, I think. I have been reviewing all their materials and info for an article to appear in Light Sport and Ultralight Flying magazine and I'm impressed with the task's complexities. *** Step one is the effort to create a powered-folding-wing, four-wheel aircraft that flies as the designers wish. That's hardly a trivial project especially as the folding wing must work in such a way that you can then drive down the road without removing those wings. (In comparison, Icon's A5 also has powered folding wings but they stay full length, sweeping back against the seaplane's fuselage.) *** Step two is making a road-capable drive train using the same Rotax 912 powerplant. Now, others have accomplished such things, perhaps, but did those projects meet a set of rules called the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards? After reviewing what's involved, my guess is they did not. The long list of required items includes such as airbags; roll cages; crumple zones; crash-capable bumpers; head restraints; highway-speed brake systems; pothole-tolerant suspension; plus features like rear-view mirrors; automotive lighting including turn signals; and windshield wipers. (Whew!) *** Step three... since all that hardware adds weight -- and since none of those things are needed on a LSA -- Terrafugia has petitioned FAA for a higher weight limit. No decision has yet been reached by the agency.

You’ve surely seen news coverage of Terrafugia’s Transition, the “roadable” LSA from a brain trust of award-winning MIT engineers in Woburn, Massachusetts. This modern version of the well-worn flying car concept has attracted plenty of media attention, and deservedly so, I think. I have been reviewing all their materials and info for an article to appear in Light Sport and Ultralight Flying magazine and I’m impressed with the task’s complexities. *** Step one is the effort to create a powered-folding-wing, four-wheel aircraft that flies as the designers wish. That’s hardly a trivial project especially as the folding wing must work in such a way that you can then drive down the road without removing those wings. (In comparison, Icon’s A5 also has powered folding wings but they stay full length, sweeping back against the seaplane’s fuselage.) *** Step two is making a road-capable drive train using the same Rotax 912 powerplant.

Flight Design… “Has a Map for That”

By Dan Johnson || December 21, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

CT Population -- The map above shows the location of all CTs in America. You can get N-numbers for each one or expand the map to show additional detail by clicking here. Below the map are examples of the evolving CT series. Map courtesy Flight Design USA

If you study FAA's registration database as I do, you'll quickly discover that Flight Design and its various CT models have a strong presence in the USA (the world for that matter, with 1,500 flying, according to the company). Since CT was first certified in April 2005 -- the second LSA to win Special LSA certification, after Evektor's SportStar -- the German brand has steadily planted CTs across America. You can see a CT at more airfields than any other brand by more than double; the next closest is the American Legend Cub. *** The accompanying graphic was created by Flight Design USA to show the locations of more than 300 CT aircraft in the United States. The distribution is surprisingly even with obvious concentrations in big aviation states such as Florida, California, and Texas/Oklahoma with another area of strength in New England, home base of the U.S. importer. This success is thanks to the early and capable work of Flight Design USA and its boss, Tom Peghiny. *** Flight Design has also been busy overseas. The company pioneered use of something called Permit to Fly in Europe, allowing sales of the CTLS; it delivered the first LSA aircraft approved in India; and Flight Design won the first-ever Type Design Approval for a LSA in China. *** At the same time, the company developed another design using all-metal construction called the MC (CT is 98% carbon fiber), and it is working to create a hybrid engine using a powerful electric motor for boost power and emergency use.

If you study FAA’s registration database as I do, you’ll quickly discover that Flight Design and its various CT models have a strong presence in the USA (the world for that matter, with 1,500 flying, according to the company). Since CT was first certified in April 2005 — the second LSA to win Special LSA certification, after Evektor’s SportStar — the German brand has steadily planted CTs across America. You can see a CT at more airfields than any other brand by more than double; the next closest is the American Legend Cub. *** The accompanying graphic was created by Flight Design USA to show the locations of more than 300 CT aircraft in the United States. The distribution is surprisingly even with obvious concentrations in big aviation states such as Florida, California, and Texas/Oklahoma with another area of strength in New England, home base of the U.S.