Dan Johnson, Author at ByDanJohnson.com

Cheetah XLS Speeds through SLSA Approval — #101

By Dan Johnson || September 18, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Rainbow Cheetah -- I love the gnarly, gusty cowl design on Cheetah and it has unusual features like folding armrests with a built-in throttle on the end. Get a closer look in my video review of Cheetah.

Reaching SLSA model number 100 produced loads of media attention and a feeling of pride in reaching such a benchmark in less than five years. How do you follow that act? With SLSA #101, naturally. *** Welcome to the Cheetah from Rainbow Aircraft in South Africa, imported by Midwest Sport Aviation based in Wisconsin. While working on ASTM approval the Syvertson brothers sold a kit version. If this modestly priced SLSA is beyond your budget, the Amateur-Built kit can save $10-20,000. *** The ready-to-fly Cheetah represents one of the true bargains of the SLSA industry, priced at $52,950 for either trigear or taildragger models powered by the 85-hp Jabiru and delivered with a MGL radio, cloth-finished interior, and those cool swing-up armrests with built-in throttle on each side. Even well optioned, a fully-built SLSA Cheetah can stay under $60,000 and that's the price some folks expected for Light-Sport Aircraft back when the rule was announced... so there you go. (Actually, Cheetah's base price is the equivalent of $46,350 in July 2004 dollars.) *** Cheetah is also unusual in offering four engine choices. Besides the standard Jabiru 2200, you can choose the 65-hp Rotax 582 two-stroke powerplant or pick an 80-hp/100-hp Rotax 912. This LSA uses a high-tech laminate material for wing and fuselage covering that helps Cheetah stay very light so it can operate well with the smaller engine. And, if you choose the R-582, you can knock $4,500 off the already-low price.

LSA-Only Expos… Everyone Likes Them!

By Dan Johnson || September 17, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

"LSA Jambo" -- One of several LSA-only shows created in recent years, the Mid-Atlantic Pilots Association event is expanding to accommodate a fast-growing crowd of attendees. Next up: the Midwest LSA Expo, followed by AOPA's Aviation Summit. Photos by David Nuss

We all love the big aviation trade shows like Sun 'n Fun and AirVenture. They offer something for everyone who flies... and that's their problem. At such large shows you must walk extensively (or ride trams) to see all the aircraft in the Light-Sport Aircraft community. LSA Malls at these events help, but they can't provide demo flying for purchase. *** Indeed, this latter reason is one of the most compelling for the January Sebring LSA Expo. All day, every day of the show, you can arrange for a demonstration flight, weather permitting. Notably, Sebring 2009 outdrew even AOPA's Expo a few months earlier. *** Last year's Fairfield, New Jersey one-day LSA Jambo produced by the Mid-Atlantic Pilots Association attracted a dozen LSA and 250 attendees. This year's longer event drew 19 airplanes and 652 people. Of future plans, organizer David Simpson said, "Jambo will be bigger and better and will include flight reviews and demo flights throughout the day." Jambo is tentatively slated for July 9th and 10th, 2010. *** In a couple weeks, the Midwest LSA Expo kicks off its first show, in Mt. Vernon Illinois October 1-2-3. This well-organized event, which has attracted plenty of media attention, will present a whole field of exhibitors. Like Jambo, the Midwest LSA Expo is a pure-play Light-Sport Aircraft event. A month later, LSA will be prominently featured at the new AOPA Aviation Summit in Tampa, Florida. If you want to learn more about LSA, you have plenty of choices.

We all love the big aviation trade shows like Sun ‘n Fun and AirVenture. They offer something for everyone who flies… and that’s their problem. At such large shows you must walk extensively (or ride trams) to see all the aircraft in the Light-Sport Aircraft community. LSA Malls at these events help, but they can’t provide demo flying for purchase. *** Indeed, this latter reason is one of the most compelling for the January Sebring LSA Expo. All day, every day of the show, you can arrange for a demonstration flight, weather permitting. Notably, Sebring 2009 outdrew even AOPA’s Expo a few months earlier. *** Last year’s Fairfield, New Jersey one-day LSA Jambo produced by the Mid-Atlantic Pilots Association attracted a dozen LSA and 250 attendees. This year’s longer event drew 19 airplanes and 652 people. Of future plans, organizer David Simpson said, “Jambo will be bigger and better and will include flight reviews and demo flights throughout the day.” Jambo is tentatively slated for July 9th and 10th, 2010.

Van’s RV-12 is SLSA #100; Here Come the ELSA ’12s

By Dan Johnson || September 15, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

RV-12 wins its LSA wings... As required by regulation, Van's had to build at least one SLSA RV-12 to allow conforming ELSA kits. Now, possibly hundreds will follow. Check RV-12 specs. Center photo courtesy Kitplanes magazine.

[UPDATE: The Krucker Cygnet won approval on July 3rd, making that weight-shift LSA #99... so Van's RV-12 is technically the #100 LSA model to win an airworthiness certificate. It was previously reported as #99.] The top-selling kit airplane producer, Van's Aircraft of RV-xx fame, secured an airworthiness certificate for their fully-built RV-12 Special Light-Sport Aircraft on July 21, 2009. And the next day, the company's East Coast representative, Mitchell Lock, got an ELSA certificate for his RV-12. EAA reported that 250 RV-12s are under construction around the world. *** So, quickly, Van's looks ready to dominate the ELSA community that has been waiting to take off. True, thousand of ELSA are flying today -- many more than SLSA at present -- but that's because so many "fat ultralights" were converted to ELSA status under FAA's now-expired grandfather period. *** Van's reports that it will take 600-900 hours to complete an RV-12 to unpainted stage, so the rush of RVs into the LSA fleet may not be swift, but they'll just keep coming. The company's website keeps a constantly updated "Hobbs meter" of completions. As of this post that figure was 6,293. *** Van's website stated, "In the E-LSA category, there is no '51%' rule, and no restriction on who may assist in building the airplane. This allows any amount of help, professional assistance or even a fully professional-built airplane." It will be interesting to see how this unfolds, but meanwhile, the LSA community welcomes SLSA #99 and manufacturer #71.

[UPDATE: The Krucker Cygnet won approval on July 3rd, making that weight-shift LSA #99… so Van’s RV-12 is technically the #100 LSA model to win an airworthiness certificate. It was previously reported as #99.] The top-selling kit airplane producer, Van’s Aircraft of RV-xx fame, secured an airworthiness certificate for their fully-built RV-12 Special Light-Sport Aircraft on July 21, 2009. And the next day, the company’s East Coast representative, Mitchell Lock, got an ELSA certificate for his RV-12. EAA reported that 250 RV-12s are under construction around the world. *** So, quickly, Van’s looks ready to dominate the ELSA community that has been waiting to take off. True, thousand of ELSA are flying today — many more than SLSA at present — but that’s because so many “fat ultralights” were converted to ELSA status under FAA’s now-expired grandfather period. *** Van’s reports that it will take 600-900 hours to complete an RV-12 to unpainted stage, so the rush of RVs into the LSA fleet may not be swift, but they’ll just keep coming.

Ultralight Trainers…Exemptions?…SLSA Trainers

By Dan Johnson || September 10, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

"Ultralight Trainer-Capable" Above are two companies (M-Squared (L) and North Wing) that won SLSA status to do ultralight training. The others are: Air Creation; Summit; Apollo; DTA; Infinity; Powrachute; AirBorne; Higher Class; Six Chuter; Soaring Concepts; P&M Aviation; and CGS Aviation.

Ah, sweet Part 103 ultralights. These lightest of powered aircraft have the least FAA regulation of any flying machine. A single piece of letter paper holds the entire rule. But how do you learn to safely fly a single seater? Oh, there's the rub. *** Through January 31, 2010, two-seat ultralights converted to ELSA status may train pilots for hire. Then they must cease... maybe. Some feel that the nation lacks enough such trainers so Aero Sports Connection petitioned for an extension. Sounds reasonable. *** But what about companies that spent resources to win FAA approval? It sounds like those who played by the rules as FAA wished could miss their reward of taking over such training aircraft sales. The controversy has complications and you probably don't want to read it all. *** But here's what industry organization LAMA has to say: "In the 4.3 years since the first approval, 100 SLSA models have been approved. Among them are 17 aircraft that can work to train pilots who wish to fly those aircraft or Part 103 ultralight vehicles based on a similar design. That means one in six of all LSA approved models can be called 'ultralight trainer-capable.' LAMA congratulates those 12 companies who made the investment to gain LSA approval under the new rule." These aircraft can be used commercially not only for flight instruction but for rental, something a converted ultralight (ELSA) cannot. And SLSA possess this ability so long as they fly (if maintained as required), regardless of ownership transfer.

LSA #100 Reached! …in Less Than Five Years

By Dan Johnson || September 8, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Lowest-Cost Amphib At $37,000 (with the 65-hp two-stroke Rotax 582) or $47,000 (with 80-hp Rotax 912), the Krucker Cygnet is the lowest cost amphibious SLSA on the market. The floats look unusual, but worked great. Read my Krucker pilot report.

Triple digits! In five years the LSA industry has reached SLSA model #100. Actually, here's another one that slipped by our radar. Info now shows SLSA #99 was the Krucker amphib trike named Cygnet and Van's RV-12 was technically #100. Our SLSA List shows Special Light-Sport Aircraft in order of their approval. *** "We got our SLSA completed 3 July 2009," wrote U.S. representative, Michael Percy, of XL Kites. This means the Cygnet he imports was approved a couple weeks earlier than the Van's RV-12 on July 21st, which came one day after the fifth anniversary of the new rule announcement (July 20th, 2004). *** One hundred models approved in such a short time has no comparison in worldwide aviation history. In fact, reaching #100 only took 4.3 years because the first approval occurred on April 7th, 2005 ...that's two new models every single month! *** The other triple-digit figure -- the number of companies who have registered more than 100 aircraft -- hit five as SportCruiser models exceeded 100 units in the USA. Formerly Czech Aircraft Works, producer Czech Sport Aircraft now joins Flight Design, American Legend, Tecnam, and Remos in the exclusive triple-digit sales club. Other LSA climbers include Aerotrek/Aeropro, nearing the 50 mark with their economical tri-gear or taildragger models (average price about $75,000, they say). Watch for our next market report with more details.

Triple digits! In five years the LSA industry has reached SLSA model #100. Actually, here’s another one that slipped by our radar. Info now shows SLSA #99 was the Krucker amphib trike named Cygnet and Van’s RV-12 was technically #100. Our SLSA List shows Special Light-Sport Aircraft in order of their approval. *** “We got our SLSA completed 3 July 2009,” wrote U.S. representative, Michael Percy, of XL Kites. This means the Cygnet he imports was approved a couple weeks earlier than the Van’s RV-12 on July 21st, which came one day after the fifth anniversary of the new rule announcement (July 20th, 2004). *** One hundred models approved in such a short time has no comparison in worldwide aviation history. In fact, reaching #100 only took 4.3 years because the first approval occurred on April 7th, 2005 …that’s two new models every single month!

SeaRey Reports Superb Oshkosh; Who Will Get #100?

By Dan Johnson || September 1, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

American Seaplane -- SeaRey is an all-American brand making the move from a kit-only operation to one providing fully-built SLSA and, eventually, ELSA kits. Watch for my full pilot report in the October 2009 Light Sport and Ultralight Flying.

We sit on the edge of hitting triple digits of Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Just before Oshkosh started, Van's Aircraft announced their RV-12 qualified for SLSA airworthiness (which also allows the Oregon company to sell ELSA kits). People have started to ask, "Who will offer Number 100 SLSA?" One possibility is the SeaRey from Progressive Aerodyne. *** SeaRey marketing man, Darrell Lynds reported a spectacular Oshkosh event, "We sold 11 kit SeaRey aircraft (the LSX) and four SLSA versions to be called the SeaRey Sport." That represents quite a performance, causing me to inquire what amount of money changed hands in order to call these an order. "We collected $5,000 toward a kit and $10,000 on a fully-built SLSA," explained Darrell. I'd call that enough cash per airplane to make for genuine orders. *** I spoke with many sellers at Oshkosh who reported "very solid leads," and "genuinely interested buyers," but a few complained that despite these positive comments, they were not seeing the cash. *** SeaRey logged one of the best selling performances among LSA suppliers. The company has been working on LSA approval for several months and that follows years of successful kit selling. Close to 500 SeaRey kits are now flying and they've generated an intensely loyal following. Could the SeaRay Sport be SLSA #100? Only time will tell but we'll do our best to report the answer first.

We sit on the edge of hitting triple digits of Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Just before Oshkosh started, Van’s Aircraft announced their RV-12 qualified for SLSA airworthiness (which also allows the Oregon company to sell ELSA kits). People have started to ask, “Who will offer Number 100 SLSA?” One possibility is the SeaRey from Progressive Aerodyne. *** SeaRey marketing man, Darrell Lynds reported a spectacular Oshkosh event, “We sold 11 kit SeaRey aircraft (the LSX) and four SLSA versions to be called the SeaRey Sport.” That represents quite a performance, causing me to inquire what amount of money changed hands in order to call these an order. “We collected $5,000 toward a kit and $10,000 on a fully-built SLSA,” explained Darrell. I’d call that enough cash per airplane to make for genuine orders. *** I spoke with many sellers at Oshkosh who reported “very solid leads,” and “genuinely interested buyers,” but a few complained that despite these positive comments, they were not seeing the cash.

A First Look at Two New Tandem LSA

By Dan Johnson || August 25, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Tandem Cruisers... In the central image, you see the new sportShark from Shark.Aero taking its first flight. Surrounding sportShark are images of the Florida-based MySky MS-1. Using the 120-horsepower, six-cylinder Jabiru 3300 at max continuous power, One should cruise right at the 120-knot speed limit.

Here come the new tandems. And I do mean new! Suspending a full flight-trial regime, U.S.-based MySky took their new MS-1 on a long maiden voyage from Daytona Beach, Florida to Oshkosh 2009. And just yesterday, the Slovak Republic-based sportShark, from Shark.Aero, took its first flight. *** Tandems seat occupants fore and aft like some existing SLSA models but that's where the similarities end. MS-1 and sportShark are clean-sheet designs aimed at performance and comfort, where all tandems presently approved are recreational aircraft. *** Other than the composite Sky Arrow*, all other seven tandems in the SLSA List are simpler, first-generation designs. All are fabric covered. None are speedsters. (Note: You can find all these qualities for any of the 99 SLSA models using PlaneFinder 2.0.) *** One and sportShark are second-generation designs. In both cases they were created after and because of the Light-Sport rules and ASTM industry-standards certification. Each has been some years in development. *** But why tandem? Those who prefer tandem note several reasons: ** many flights are one-place, now you aren't seated off to one side; ** when two-place, each has equal lateral visibility; ** tandem is leaner, more efficient; ** has a high-end sports car look. Both MS-1 and sportShark aim to go as fast as allowed (photo caption). * The Italian producer of Sky Arrow is currently in bankruptcy though still able to supply aircraft to U.S. importer, Hansen Air Group.

New FAA Administrator Pleased with LSA Safety

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

New FAA Boss - LAMA board member, EAA VP Earl Lawrence (top center) brought FAA administrator Randy Babbitt (top left) to meet LAMA officials and industry leaders. In the lower photo Babbitt met Matthias Betsch of Flight Design (sunglasses), shakes hands with Corvin Huber of Remos, and prepares to meet Paulo Pascale of Tecnam. Photos courtesy EAA.

Like any new aviation segment, early incidents attract disproportionate attention. Now that we are five years into Light-Sport Aircraft, the outlook is good. Sure the industry still has work to do as it creates a new industry from the ground up, including writing all its own certification plans. But the heavy lifting is done and accident rate is acceptable. What remains is filling in gaps and fine-tuning the ASTM standards and producer execution to them. *** Yesterday, Flight International reported new FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt's positive comments about LSA. "Babbitt says that the accident rates for factory-built light sport aircraft 'are very compatible with what's goes on in the rest of the general aviation world'," wrote reporter John Croft. Commenting on the progress of the light sport industry in general, Babbitt continued: "This is a whole experiment for this category of aircraft where the manufacturers themselves have said, 'We are going to design these aircraft, we are going to have statistics and design specs and all of those things people have to follow'." Elaborating further, Babbitt said, "And the FAA has said to [the LSA manufacturers], as long as you comply with your own high standards then you will be fine. They have done that. I think they have excelled, have succeeded [at meeting] those standards. The statistics reflect it. Light-Sport accidents rates are very compatible with what goes on in the rest of the general aviation world. So they are doing what they said they would do and the numbers reflect it." That's an FAA report LSA producers have got to love!

Like any new aviation segment, early incidents attract disproportionate attention. Now that we are five years into Light-Sport Aircraft, the outlook is good. Sure the industry still has work to do as it creates a new industry from the ground up, including writing all its own certification plans. But the heavy lifting is done and accident rate is acceptable. What remains is filling in gaps and fine-tuning the ASTM standards and producer execution to them. *** Yesterday, Flight International reported new FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt’s positive comments about LSA. “Babbitt says that the accident rates for factory-built light sport aircraft ‘are very compatible with what’s goes on in the rest of the general aviation world’,” wrote reporter John Croft. Commenting on the progress of the light sport industry in general, Babbitt continued: “This is a whole experiment for this category of aircraft where the manufacturers themselves have said, ‘We are going to design these aircraft, we are going to have statistics and design specs and all of those things people have to follow’.” Elaborating further, Babbitt said, “And the FAA has said to [the LSA manufacturers], as long as you comply with your own high standards then you will be fine.

Flying Kids in LSA; AOPA’s New Aviation Summit

By Dan Johnson || August 16, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Reaching Out with LSA -- According to EAA's Bob Campbell, 292 students had their first flying experience in a Remos G-3 or GX during EAA summer camps. Four CFIs rotated the students through a series of 15- to 20-minute flights. (At AOPA's Summit home page, the first aircraft you see is an LSA. No wonder, perhaps, as the organization said their many incoming calls are more often about LSA than any other topic.)

We all discuss declining numbers of pilots in FAA's database. Despite widespread concerns, efforts to bring more people into aviation have fallen short. *** Several worthy projects have attempted to reverse the drop in the pilot population. Over the years, EAA's Young Eagles program has put nearly a million and a half kids into airplanes. That's a wonderful achievement, thanks to EAA's leadership and many thousands of willing volunteer pilots. One LSA provider, Remos, has worked with the organization to provide flights to a large flock of kids attending EAA summer flying camps (photo). *** Yet we must do more to interest people in flying. Along those lines, I'm at once amazed and appreciative that AOPA and EAA have chosen to combine efforts (finally!). AOPA is also completely refashioning its former Expo into the new AOPA Aviation Summit. "For the first time, AOPA will be reaching outside the aviation community to welcome the public into all general aviation has to offer." AOPA's new initiative, combined with a new collaboration with EAA, joined to entry-level Light-Sport Aircraft looks like a winner to me. *** For the fifth year in a row, LAMA will work with AOPA event planners to provide an LSA Area at the airport display, which itself will focus on more public outreach this year. One neat new addition: seaplanes, including LSA, flying from a pier right next to Peter O. Knight airport in Tampa, Florida.

We all discuss declining numbers of pilots in FAA’s database. Despite widespread concerns, efforts to bring more people into aviation have fallen short. *** Several worthy projects have attempted to reverse the drop in the pilot population. Over the years, EAA’s Young Eagles program has put nearly a million and a half kids into airplanes. That’s a wonderful achievement, thanks to EAA’s leadership and many thousands of willing volunteer pilots. One LSA provider, Remos, has worked with the organization to provide flights to a large flock of kids attending EAA summer flying camps (photo). *** Yet we must do more to interest people in flying. Along those lines, I’m at once amazed and appreciative that AOPA and EAA have chosen to combine efforts (finally!). AOPA is also completely refashioning its former Expo into the new AOPA Aviation Summit. “For the first time, AOPA will be reaching outside the aviation community to welcome the public into all general aviation has to offer.” AOPA’s new initiative, combined with a new collaboration with EAA, joined to entry-level Light-Sport Aircraft looks like a winner to me.

LSA Attain New Plateau in Aviation World

By Dan Johnson || August 5, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

LSA Mall: Meeting Place -- Top leaders gathered in the LSA Mall, located a short distance from the new Oshkosh "World's Busiest Control Tower." [Bottom right] A present-day Big Three of LSA discussed industry development while waiting for the FAA Administrator's visit (R to L) Flight Design's Matthias Betsch, Tecnam's Paolo Pascale, LAMA's Larry Burke, and Remos' Corvin Huber. [Bottom left] Flight Design USA president Tom Peghiny speaks with AOPA journalist Alton Marsh. [Upper inset] EAA Radio host John Montgomery interviewed American Legend's Kurt Sehnert (standing) and Jabiru's Pete Krotje. In the background an Airbus A-380 performs maneuvers.

Viewed from the LSA Mall, AirVenture 2009 was much more than the summer's big celebration of flight. Several important events tell a story of growing acceptance of LSA. Here's a short list: LAMA hosted a meeting of G10 (the 10 largest LSA producers) and another of G5, while paying visits to every LAMA member in attendance. *** At the G10 meeting and again at LAMA's press conference, Avemco president Jim Lauerman detailed his company's support (in writing) for LAMA's audit activities. His expressions were corroborated by Falcon Insurance VP Bob Mackey. *** Earl Lawrence, VP of government relations for EAA, brought brand new FAA administrator Randy Babbitt to the LSA Mall, where he met with presidents of LSA companies: Flight Design, Tecnam, Remos, and IndUS. *** At AOPA's invitation, LAMA arranged a meeting for several LSA industry leaders with new AOPA president Craig Fuller. *** EAA Radio broadcast from the LSA Mall interviewing top producers from American Legend, Jabiru, among other industry leaders. *** Of course, for tens of thousands of visitors, the LSA Mall was mainly the place to find shiny new Special Light-Sport Aircraft including all the top selling models. And with the LSA Mall as an "anchor tenant" of the new AirVenture display area, other suppliers also took space in what is shaping up as the (unofficial-for-now) LSA Area. Thanks to confirmation from EAA leadership, who now view the LSA Mall as a "destination," visitors to EAA's 2010 event should again find the latest and greatest Light-Sport Aircraft in convenient proximity.

Viewed from the LSA Mall, AirVenture 2009 was much more than the summer’s big celebration of flight. Several important events tell a story of growing acceptance of LSA. Here’s a short list: LAMA hosted a meeting of G10 (the 10 largest LSA producers) and another of G5, while paying visits to every LAMA member in attendance. *** At the G10 meeting and again at LAMA’s press conference, Avemco president Jim Lauerman detailed his company’s support (in writing) for LAMA’s audit activities. His expressions were corroborated by Falcon Insurance VP Bob Mackey. *** Earl Lawrence, VP of government relations for EAA, brought brand new FAA administrator Randy Babbitt to the LSA Mall, where he met with presidents of LSA companies: Flight Design, Tecnam, Remos, and IndUS. *** At AOPA’s invitation, LAMA arranged a meeting for several LSA industry leaders with new AOPA president Craig Fuller.

‘Round the World LSA Flight Arrives in Oshkosh

By Dan Johnson || July 28, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Welcome to Oshkosh! Mike Blyth and James Pitman arrived safely at AirVenture 2009 flying their handsome D6 Sling Light-Sport Aircraft. Above: Mike waves the South African flag with the U.S. flag in backdrop and their sponsors emblazoned on the fuselage. James Pitman (right) is Mike's partner in The Airplane Factory, manufacturer of the Sling. At top the duo pose with South African good friends and even yours truly.

For most pilots flying 100 hours represents a decent year of enjoying aviation. Mike Blyth and James Pitman hit that on the first long leg of their 'round the world flight, traversing a huge expanse of ocean en route from South Africa to Oshkosh. Their total flight will see each logging nearly 250 hours of flying... in a month! *** The intrepid duo successfully arrived at AirVenture Oshkosh right on schedule. After spending a few days at this "Disneyland for Airplanes," the pair of global adventurers will set off for California, Hawaii and the far east as they wing their way back to what should be a heroes' welcome in South Africa. Blyth has accomplished several impressively long flights and has made movies about the experience. He and Pitman will repeat with "Sling 2009 Around the World" aerial expedition. These are no mere "There I was..." films. Many (including me) have found them highly entertaining. *** In answering my query about why east to west (given that prevailing U.S. winds are west to east), Mike explained that "ocean tradewinds favor going this direction" when flying major portions south of the equator. Not many pilots comprehend the amount of planning and preparation required for such an adventure. Who could not be impressed, especially all we other pilots who tend to worry about straying too far from a good landing area. Go Mike and James; bon voyage for the rest of your fantastic circumnavigation!

For most pilots flying 100 hours represents a decent year of enjoying aviation. Mike Blyth and James Pitman hit that on the first long leg of their ’round the world flight, traversing a huge expanse of ocean en route from South Africa to Oshkosh. Their total flight will see each logging nearly 250 hours of flying… in a month! *** The intrepid duo successfully arrived at AirVenture Oshkosh right on schedule. After spending a few days at this “Disneyland for Airplanes,” the pair of global adventurers will set off for California, Hawaii and the far east as they wing their way back to what should be a heroes’ welcome in South Africa. Blyth has accomplished several impressively long flights and has made movies about the experience. He and Pitman will repeat with “Sling 2009 Around the World” aerial expedition. These are no mere “There I was…” films.

First-Ever Industry-Run Oshkosh LSA Mall

By Dan Johnson || July 22, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Featured in the 2009 AirVenture LSA Mall: Flight Design, Tecnam, Remos, Evektor, SportCruiser, Jabiru, TL Sting, Lightning, Gobosh, SeaMax, Paradise, SeaRey, 3Xtrim, X-Air, IndUS, and M-Squared plus a surprise or two. Thanks to Aviators Hot Line/Light Aviation Edition for their sponsorship.

The brand-new LSA Mall at AirVenture Oshkosh is full with a wait list. "First ever?" "Brand-new?" Confused? No wonder as thanks to the generosity of EAA, LSA producers or importers have enjoyed an LSA Mall at AirVenture for the last four years. *** Now, however, the industry -- through LAMA, the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association -- has purchased space and will host its own (hopefully permanent) LSA Mall in an all-new section of the Main Aircraft Display Area. With few exceptions, all the top LSA companies will be represented and others not in the LSA Mall are exhibiting very nearby in what is shaping up as the "LSA Area." *** The new location is shown in the accompanying graphic, but some will recognize that for many years the space was home to the Fly Market, which has now moved closer to the campground. A new paved road leads directly to the LSA Mall and it is a mere 500 paces from the front gate. In addition to 17 handsome Light-Sport Aircraft models, the LAMA tent on-site will contain other key suppliers including engine displays. *** Over the years of LSA Malls at AirVenture, Sun 'n Fun and others, airshow attendees have expressed appreciation for collecting many of the best LSA in one convenient location because the primary displays for these companies are scattered all over the immense grounds of these events, which demands a lot of walking to compare and contrast models.

The brand-new LSA Mall at AirVenture Oshkosh is full with a wait list. “First ever?” “Brand-new?” Confused? No wonder as thanks to the generosity of EAA, LSA producers or importers have enjoyed an LSA Mall at AirVenture for the last four years. *** Now, however, the industry — through LAMA, the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association — has purchased space and will host its own (hopefully permanent) LSA Mall in an all-new section of the Main Aircraft Display Area. With few exceptions, all the top LSA companies will be represented and others not in the LSA Mall are exhibiting very nearby in what is shaping up as the “LSA Area.” *** The new location is shown in the accompanying graphic, but some will recognize that for many years the space was home to the Fly Market, which has now moved closer to the campground. A new paved road leads directly to the LSA Mall and it is a mere 500 paces from the front gate.

Part 103 Belite Flies; Electric Power Coming

By Dan Johnson || July 16, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Captured on camera aloft on its first flight the Belite Part 103 aircraft flew on July 4th and will make an appearance at AirVenture (see it in the North Aircraft display area, spaces 612 & 615). The company says it will be offered for sale as a kit or fully assembled. Read more on Belite's blog page.

Part 103 ultralights seem eclipsed by the attention awarded to Light-Sport Aircraft. But a Wichita tech entrepreneur who sold his business is now pursuing aviation focused on the airplane formerly known as the Kitfox Lite. *** James Wiebe bought the rights to the single seater, opened shop as Belite Aircraft, and immediately started replacing aluminum and wood components with carbon fiber. The result is a genuinely light aircraft than can make Part 103 with several pounds to spare. *** On July 4th, as America was blowing off fireworks, James fired up his 28-horsepower Zanzottera MZ-34 engine to make his maiden flight. "While the rest of the country was focused on celebrating independence, I was experiencing it, making lazy circles in the sky above Jabara Airport," Wiebe expressed. As flown, the airplane weighed approximately 245 pounds and that included the optional rear window and a full VFR panel. Belite incorporates the use of proprietary, lightweight carbon fiber material in the fabrication of struts, wing ribs, wing spars, cabin, and firewall. Wiebe orignally planned and will still move toward electric power for Belite; Part 103 ultralights may represent the best aircraft segment in which to experiment with electric powerplants.

Part 103 ultralights seem eclipsed by the attention awarded to Light-Sport Aircraft. But a Wichita tech entrepreneur who sold his business is now pursuing aviation focused on the airplane formerly known as the Kitfox Lite. *** James Wiebe bought the rights to the single seater, opened shop as Belite Aircraft, and immediately started replacing aluminum and wood components with carbon fiber. The result is a genuinely light aircraft than can make Part 103 with several pounds to spare. *** On July 4th, as America was blowing off fireworks, James fired up his 28-horsepower Zanzottera MZ-34 engine to make his maiden flight. “While the rest of the country was focused on celebrating independence, I was experiencing it, making lazy circles in the sky above Jabara Airport,” Wiebe expressed. As flown, the airplane weighed approximately 245 pounds and that included the optional rear window and a full VFR panel.

New LSA Milestone; CT Delivers 300th

By Dan Johnson || July 13, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Still on a roll... On July 8, 2009, Flight Design Mid-Atlantic's John Calla (left) hands the keys to CT Number 300 to new owner Kenneth D. Griffin.

Sales are subdued all over aviation but it isn't stopping the top performers in the Light-Sport Aircraft marketplace. As our last market share update illustrated, Remos, Tecnam, SportCruiser, and Jabiru have all done reasonably (or very) well in the last 18 months. Always among those contenders is longtime market share leader, Flight Design. *** Just a couple days ago (photo), eastern distributor Flight Design Mid-Atlantic delivered CT#300 to owner Kenneth D. Griffin of Southampton, New Jersey complete with his personalized tail number (N74KG)... interestingly, CT#200 also got a call sign identifying its owner. *** In the Something-for-Nothing Department: Flight Design will be giving away the first MC at AirVenture when EAA completes its 2009 Sweepstakes and awards some lucky person a brand-new design as well as a brand-new airplane. Big flight school and mail order house, Sporty's, is giving away a 2010 Cessna Skycatcher. Want a low wing? Enter the Get-a-Gobosh sweepstakes in Pilot magazine. Plus a rumor is circulating about another LSA giveaway from a major player. Sounds like at least four lucky people may become an owner of a $100,000+ LSA for nothing. Who couldn't like that in a down economy?

Sales are subdued all over aviation but it isn’t stopping the top performers in the Light-Sport Aircraft marketplace. As our last market share update illustrated, Remos, Tecnam, SportCruiser, and Jabiru have all done reasonably (or very) well in the last 18 months. Always among those contenders is longtime market share leader, Flight Design. *** Just a couple days ago (photo), eastern distributor Flight Design Mid-Atlantic delivered CT#300 to owner Kenneth D. Griffin of Southampton, New Jersey complete with his personalized tail number (N74KG)… interestingly, CT#200 also got a call sign identifying its owner. *** In the Something-for-Nothing Department: Flight Design will be giving away the first MC at AirVenture when EAA completes its 2009 Sweepstakes and awards some lucky person a brand-new design as well as a brand-new airplane. Big flight school and mail order house, Sporty’s, is giving away a 2010 Cessna Skycatcher.

Independence Day Treat! — Past LSA Leader Returns

By Dan Johnson || July 5, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Allegro 2007 is back! This modestly-priced LSA -- the third ever approved, back in May 2005 -- is returning to market from a company associated with Sadler Aircraft and its Vampire (lower photo). Until the new model is available you can read my earlier Allegro pilot report.

Some have likely forgotten that the Allegro was the third Special Light-Sport Aircraft ever certified, following only Evektor's SportStar and Flight Design's CT. It was also a market leader early on...in fact, it did so well, Fantasy Air (the now-bankrupt Czech designer and producer) still holds the #12 position even without a sale in nearly two years. *** The founding company's troubled history is now being replaced with an all-American manufacturing effort based on the revised Allegro 2007 model that saw improvements to better suit the American market. Allegro USA LLC, the newly-formed company, announced in June that Allegro will now be built completely in Roseburg, Oregon. Allegro USA believes this will eliminate concerns for warranty, parts, delivery, and financing. *** Some LSA suppliers may be cautious in today's economy but Allegro USA is taking strides to regain its market position. "We believe in the Allegro and the American LSA market, and will continue with our expansion of the Allegro for the United States market and beyond," stated Doug Hempstead, president of Allegro USA LLC. "It has never been easier, nor a better time to own a new Allegro light sport aircraft than right now." The company has not announced prices yet nor is its website up. But the reasonably-priced, now all-American Allegro is returning to marketplace and for cash-strapped American pilots, that seems like good news.

Some have likely forgotten that the Allegro was the third Special Light-Sport Aircraft ever certified, following only Evektor’s SportStar and Flight Design’s CT. It was also a market leader early on…in fact, it did so well, Fantasy Air (the now-bankrupt Czech designer and producer) still holds the #12 position even without a sale in nearly two years. *** The founding company’s troubled history is now being replaced with an all-American manufacturing effort based on the revised Allegro 2007 model that saw improvements to better suit the American market. Allegro USA LLC, the newly-formed company, announced in June that Allegro will now be built completely in Roseburg, Oregon. Allegro USA believes this will eliminate concerns for warranty, parts, delivery, and financing. *** Some LSA suppliers may be cautious in today’s economy but Allegro USA is taking strides to regain its market position.

Arriving from Shanghai…Electric Power Two Seater

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

The E430 takes its first flights with Yuneec's company test pilot, Sun Xun, a 3,600-hour pilot, at the controls for the flight evaluations. (Interesting to note he sat on the right side of the cockpit for this.) For more info, contact Yuneec's UK office.

Two Chinese delegates attended ASTM meetings in Freidrichshafen Germany in April, the first time the nation has been represented. Those reps indicated they believed ASTM acceptance in China may not be far off. Meanwhile, Shanghai-based Yuneec company is moving forward, and upward. *** Yuneec's E430 will be featured at AirVenture along with a distinctly American design: the Flightstar Spyder (single place, Part 103-capable ultralight) fitted with a Yuneec electric motor. *** Using a 6-battery setup on their two seater, E430 expects 1.5-2 hours of flight and with such an installation, payload is a respectable 400 pounds even with a 45-foot wing span. A 10-battery setup may fly 2.25-2.5 hours. A video gives a hint to the sound level (turn your speakers up loud). *** Yuneec International announced, "The E430 is a twin seat, single engine, LSA class aircraft designed to be simple to use, easy to fly and with virtually zero vibration. It's very smooth [with] low noise, no emissions, no [petroleum] fuel, extremely low maintenance and...it's environmentally friendly." The company continues, "Charging times of 3 hours for as little as $5 make electric a low cost way to fly." *** On Saturday June 20th at an Airfield North of Shanghai the E430 performed two flights of around 15 minutes and did a series of basic test maneuvers. Under full power E430 rolled 260 feet, rotating at 40 mph. A climb rate of nearly 1,400 fpm was achieved during the second flight. Top speed in level flight was 94 mph.

Announcing PlaneFinder 2.0…Find Your Best LSA!

By Dan Johnson || June 24, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

We kept PlaneFinder 2.0 lean and light, with quick-read questions and responses. If you need more info to select your response, hover over any highlighted title and a hint box will pop up like the one for "Mission" above. A few instructions appear at the bottom of the page...but it's real easy. Go try it!

Just over five years ago when ByDanJohnson.com went live, we planned a feature called PlaneFinder. It was to be an key element of this website, offering advice to help pilots select your ideal aircraft. That was version 1.0 and it proved to be more complicated than needed plus the ultralights and kit-built light planes we spent years evaluating were giving way to Light-Sport Aircraft. Reluctantly, we quietly put PlaneFinder on hold while we followed the emergence of LSA within the world of aviation. *** ByDanJohnson.com went live on April 1st, 2004... four months before the SP/LSA rule was announced. Click forward five years and we now have an astounding 97 Special Light-Sport Aircraft models from 70 manufacturers. Every one is listed on our SLSA List with links to find out much more about them. Now, we add a crowning touch: PlaneFinder 2.0. *** This automated, interactive system asks your preference to 24 very simple (this-or-that type) categories, for example, "High wing or low wing?" As you answer, the Matching SLSA list will quickly narrow your search to those with your preferred qualities. You don't have to answer all 24 categories; just pick those important to you. PlaneFinder 2.0 will show you all SLSA that match your selections. You can change your category responses as often as you wish to refine your ideal feature set. Or you can Reset and start all over. Give it a try. ByDanJohnson.com offers PlaneFinder 2.0 completely free of charge, though you will have to register and receive a password. (Of course, we'd sincerely appreciate your $29 membership to support this website.)

Steady Subtle Changes Add Up to the Max

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

Evektor's SportStar became the first-ever Special Light-Sport Aircraft a little over four years ago, a distinction no one can ever take away from the Czech company. Yet that exclusive title has not encouraged the company to rest on their laurels. While Evektor has not re-certified their airplane (for example, like Flight Design and their CTLS, Remos and their GX, or TL Ultralight and their Sting S3), the design has nonetheless changed (photos). SportStar was also one of the first success stories gaining entry to the GA flight school market. Now for Oshkosh 2009, Evektor will launch their Max model in two variations. Their SportStar Max BT ("Basic Trainer") is the entry model, fleet priced at $110,000. But flight schools that focus on instrument training may opt for the $155,000 Max IFR model which comes equipped with the certified Rotax 912S (different than the ASTM-compliant "ULS" version). The company declared, "The Max IFR is the first Light-Sport Aircraft that is Part 23 instrument compliant for IFR IMC* flight, and can be used to train students up to and including a Commercial [with] Instrument rating." For personal use, SportStar has some enviable numbers to go with its cooperative handling. According to Josef Bostik, then-President of Evektor Aircraft, Inc., "Max can carry two persons in its 47-inch-wide cockpit plus a week's supply of baggage at 110 knots for nearly 800 miles non-stop." *IMC is Instrument Meteorological Conditions or, colloquially, flying in the clouds.

Evektor’s SportStar became the first-ever Special Light-Sport Aircraft a little over four years ago, a distinction no one can ever take away from the Czech company. Yet that exclusive title has not encouraged the company to rest on their laurels. While Evektor has not re-certified their airplane (for example, like Flight Design and their CTLS, Remos and their GX, or TL Ultralight and their Sting S3), the design has nonetheless changed (photos). SportStar was also one of the first success stories gaining entry to the GA flight school market. Now for Oshkosh 2009, Evektor will launch their Max model in two variations. Their SportStar Max BT (“Basic Trainer”) is the entry model, fleet priced at $110,000. But flight schools that focus on instrument training may opt for the $155,000 Max IFR model which comes equipped with the certified Rotax 912S (different than the ASTM-compliant “ULS” version).

Coming Together Globally; Kolb’s Flyer SS

By Dan Johnson || June 16, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

While the aircraft's fuselage is carbon fiber, wings and tails feathers have a 6061-T6 and 2024-T3 aluminum construction. Wing struts attached to the fuselage aft of the doors helping entry and exit. The cabin is a generous 47 inches. Empty weight is 850 pounds. Read my Sport 600 report.

A Canadian design -- the Pelican 700 -- was reengineered into a SLSA by an American company -- New Kolb Aircraft -- and is being manufactured by a Brazilian company -- Flyer Industria Aeronautica. Such international collaboration is becoming common. *** Kolb won approval for the Flyer SS in July (#87 on our SLSA List). Leading the SLSA project is Izek Therrien who said, "The master lines [of the Pelican] were kept. The fuselage was then rounded, enlarged and equipped with a new flight control system." He reported 57 have been sold in South America and that a second Flyer SS will enter the USA in October." *** Some SPLOG readers may be unfamiliar with the Kolb name, but this 30-year old brand has produced 3,000 of their popular models including the Mark III and the Kolbra. Every one until the Flyer SS has been a kit. Kolb is recalling a veteran name from their history. Flyer was what Homer Kolb called his first ultralight back in 1980. *** The idea of an LSA coming from Brazil should surprise few world-wise pilots. Brazil has a rich aviation history. Flyer Industria is operated by Claudio Goncalves, whom I met many years ago. His company has built more than 1,500 airplanes.

A Canadian design — the Pelican 700 — was reengineered into a SLSA by an American company — New Kolb Aircraft — and is being manufactured by a Brazilian company — Flyer Industria Aeronautica. Such international collaboration is becoming common. *** Kolb won approval for the Flyer SS in July (#87 on our SLSA List). Leading the SLSA project is Izek Therrien who said, “The master lines [of the Pelican] were kept. The fuselage was then rounded, enlarged and equipped with a new flight control system.” He reported 57 have been sold in South America and that a second Flyer SS will enter the USA in October.” *** Some SPLOG readers may be unfamiliar with the Kolb name, but this 30-year old brand has produced 3,000 of their popular models including the Mark III and the Kolbra. Every one until the Flyer SS has been a kit.

Able Flight LSA Team Crosses U.S. in 17 Hours

By Dan Johnson || June 10, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Cross this big country east to west in a day? ...in a Light-Sport Aircraft? Yup! On June 8, pilots Matt Hansen and Jessica Scharle successfully completed a transcontinental flight in Peregrine FA-04, dashing 1,813.5 nautical miles from Florida to California. After making five stops along the way the duo touched down at Gillespie Field near San Diego at 10:22 PM, marking an elapsed time of 19 hours and 21 minutes, which includes time for fuel stops. Total flying time was just over 17 hours. They may have accomplished the feat to help nonprofit Able Flight in its mission to assist disabled folks learn to fly, but I think these twentysomething pilots showed they have the right stuff. That's even more obvious when you hear Jessica Scharle courageously overcame a rare medical condition that fused almost every joint in her body. Nearly immobilized at one time, numerous surgeries, years of physical therapy, and personal determination helped Jessica become completely independent. After all that, a flight across America must have seemed a lighthearted jaunt. Indeed, when Jessica and instructor Matt Hansen arrived and were asked about the toughest part of their flight, they said in unison, "Texas." Hansen, 23, is a flight instructor who trains people with disabilities to fly. Scharle is 24 and an Able Flight scholarship recipient who earned her Sport Pilot certificate last year at Hansen Air Group.

Cross this big country east to west in a day? …in a Light-Sport Aircraft? Yup! On June 8, pilots Matt Hansen and Jessica Scharle successfully completed a transcontinental flight in Peregrine FA-04, dashing 1,813.5 nautical miles from Florida to California. After making five stops along the way the duo touched down at Gillespie Field near San Diego at 10:22 PM, marking an elapsed time of 19 hours and 21 minutes, which includes time for fuel stops. Total flying time was just over 17 hours. They may have accomplished the feat to help nonprofit Able Flight in its mission to assist disabled folks learn to fly, but I think these twentysomething pilots showed they have the right stuff. That’s even more obvious when you hear Jessica Scharle courageously overcame a rare medical condition that fused almost every joint in her body. Nearly immobilized at one time, numerous surgeries, years of physical therapy, and personal determination helped Jessica become completely independent.