Dan Johnson, Author at ByDanJohnson.com

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.

Computers in the Cockpit; Digital Replaces Analog

By Dan Johnson || June 6, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Dynon's line includes (top left, clockwise): D-120 EMS, D-10 EMS round-hole panel mount, D-10a EFIS round-hole mount, and D-100 EFIS. "We are much more vertically integrated than our competitors, meaning we design and make everything we sell...our products are better integrated," claims Dynon.

Many website visitors ask about LSA avionics leadership. Indeed, ever since "steam gauges" gave way to glass screens, the players have changed. Analog instruments were made by many companies and became such commodities that you may not be able to name a brand. But as computers entered our cockpits, first via GPS and later with multi-function displays, brands became better known. *** For this mini-report, I'll divide the new players into two groups: EFIS/EMS providers and GPS/radio providers. A third group will include autopilot builders and even newer gear like night vision systems. As I make some guesstimates about market shares, I acknowledge this is non-scientific. If you believe you have better information, please forward your comments. *** Among fully-built SLSA, it appears Dynon has the lion's share of the digital instrument market (photo). They admit their biggest competitor remains analog gauges but in "glass cockpits," the Washington state company appears to have the lead -- estimated at 50-75%. Two top manufacturers, Flight Design and Remos, use only Dynon. In the Experimental (EAB) market, Dynon is the probable leader though they have competitors such as Grand Rapids Technology, Advanced Flight Systems, Blue Mountain, and MGL Avionics...each of which also has installations in SLSA. One educated guess is that Dynon has half the EAB digital market, where GRT and AFS have another sixth each and Blue Mountain and MGL have something less than 10% each.

Many website visitors ask about LSA avionics leadership. Indeed, ever since “steam gauges” gave way to glass screens, the players have changed. Analog instruments were made by many companies and became such commodities that you may not be able to name a brand. But as computers entered our cockpits, first via GPS and later with multi-function displays, brands became better known. *** For this mini-report, I’ll divide the new players into two groups: EFIS/EMS providers and GPS/radio providers. A third group will include autopilot builders and even newer gear like night vision systems. As I make some guesstimates about market shares, I acknowledge this is non-scientific. If you believe you have better information, please forward your comments. *** Among fully-built SLSA, it appears Dynon has the lion’s share of the digital instrument market (photo). They admit their biggest competitor remains analog gauges but in “glass cockpits,” the Washington state company appears to have the lead — estimated at 50-75%.

First Major Corporate Change in LSA World

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

The familiar SportCruiser (#6 in the rankings), now rebadged from Czech Sport Aircraft. Former CZAW import arm Sport Aircraft Works continues to represent the sleek composite Dynamic.

A long and winding trail in the sky, this story is... Once upon a time an American traveled to the Czech Republic, founded a small business to build kit aircraft, grew that into a full-fledged LSA producer, gained an investor with whom he later disagreed, and lost his enterprise. That's the shortest possible take on it. When Chip Erwin's Czech Aircraft Works dissolved, the chrysalis produced Czech Sport Aircraft... the new owner of the SportCruiser (photos). As Chip takes an unplanned sabbatical from this business, the new team under Martin Zikes is taking action. *** Czech Sport Aircraft (CSA) says its roots date back to 1934 when "a group of aviation enthusiasts opened a small workshop and started to build gliders." Around World War II a related factory was seized by the Luftwaffe and served as a repair and maintenance facility. "After the war the company worked on all types of airplanes then flying in Czechoslovakia. During the '50s and '60s the factory manufactured the famous L-200 Morava, Z-37 Bumble Bee, and L-29 light military training jet. After the Velvet Revolution, the company was acquired by Aircraft Industries, the manufacturer of the legendary L-410 and L-13 Blanik gliders." *** A late-breaking 2009 development involves CSA establishing cooperative-ownership facilitator LetsFly as the national distributor. The Czech manufacturer recently completed its LAMA ASTM Compliance Audit successfully and has established U.S. service centers for the 89 SportCruisers presently registered with FAA.

A long and winding trail in the sky, this story is… Once upon a time an American traveled to the Czech Republic, founded a small business to build kit aircraft, grew that into a full-fledged LSA producer, gained an investor with whom he later disagreed, and lost his enterprise. That’s the shortest possible take on it. When Chip Erwin’s Czech Aircraft Works dissolved, the chrysalis produced Czech Sport Aircraft… the new owner of the SportCruiser (photos). As Chip takes an unplanned sabbatical from this business, the new team under Martin Zikes is taking action. *** Czech Sport Aircraft (CSA) says its roots date back to 1934 when “a group of aviation enthusiasts opened a small workshop and started to build gliders.” Around World War II a related factory was seized by the Luftwaffe and served as a repair and maintenance facility. “After the war the company worked on all types of airplanes then flying in Czechoslovakia.

ASTM Standards Acceptance Around the Globe

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

Could I possibly write about more boring stuff? Not many readers want to hear the details of how aircraft are certified. But here's why it matters: If enough countries accept the same standards, it gives a greater market to producers, which may bring either new aircraft or new features on existing aircraft — or it may bring lower prices... or both. Cool new airplanes or new features and lower costs are of interest to most pilots. I went to Friedrichshafen, Germany — where the Aero show is held — to attend ASTM meetings and we had regulators in attendance from China, England, New Zealand, and the European Union. Since we were in Germany the attention was naturally on Europe's EASA (logo on photo) and its rather deliberate moves toward accepting ASTM standards. Notably, the two representatives from China seem to think ASTM could be adapted in their country and progress may come sooner than later. India is also weighing acceptance of ASTM standards. Combined, these two countries represent one third of the Earth's population. Admittedly both have tiny or non-existent recreational pilot populations today but that is predicted to change and the ramifications could be enormous... potentially far overshadowing the effect of European acceptance. Does it all sound more interesting now? You decide, but anything that enlarges the market might make for a healthier future for LSA and cooler airplanes for you.

Could I possibly write about more boring stuff? Not many readers want to hear the details of how aircraft are certified. But here’s why it matters: If enough countries accept the same standards, it gives a greater market to producers, which may bring either new aircraft or new features on existing aircraft — or it may bring lower prices… or both. Cool new airplanes or new features and lower costs are of interest to most pilots. I went to Friedrichshafen, Germany — where the Aero show is held — to attend ASTM meetings and we had regulators in attendance from China, England, New Zealand, and the European Union. Since we were in Germany the attention was naturally on Europe’s EASA (logo on photo) and its rather deliberate moves toward accepting ASTM standards. Notably, the two representatives from China seem to think ASTM could be adapted in their country and progress may come sooner than later.

Strong Survive Tough Economy…Some Repositioning

By Dan Johnson || May 12, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Though a few other brands (Evektor, CZAW, CubCrafters, and Jabiru) are closing on the 100-airplanes-registered benchmark, the four brands pictured above constitute the only triple-digit sellers and have 40% of all SLSA registrations. LSA performance in 2009 got closer to general aviation deliveries as the GA piston market sunk by a very steep 55% in 1Q09.

We continue to see the effects of the last year of economic turmoil in Light-Sport Aircraft market shares. The chart accompanying this SPLOG tells the numbers as always presented, with total market share since the first deliveries in 2005 based on carefully-reviewed FAA registration data. The top twenty (of 70 total) producers still represent almost 90% of total SLSA registrations. For the record... registrations on FAA's database are not the same as sales. Aircraft can be registered and not sold. Aircraft can be identified as sold yet no longer registered, for example, if removed from service due to a non-repairable crash. To get some idea of the work my associate Jan Fridrich does to collect this information, go look for yourself at FAA's database. *** Remos continues its solid 2008 performance despite the troubled economy. In the 16-month period since January 1, 2008 the German brand is the leader with 73 units registered, followed by familiar names, in order: Flight Design 62; Tecnam 49; Czech Aircraft Works (see below) 44; Jabiru 32; American Legend 27; AMD 23; CubCrafters 22; Aeropro 14, plus Evektor and TL Ultralight at 12 each. These 11 brands registered 74% of all new SLSA airplanes. *** One of the largest business developments since Czech-based Fantasy Air went down is the change of ownership at the maker of the SportCruiser. Formerly Czech Aircraft Works (CZAW), the company is now called Czech Sport Aircraft. New operators state they will support the fleet of 89 models flying... half of them delivered in the last year. Meanwhile, Fantasy Air importer Doug Hempstead reports he expects U.S.-based production of the Allegro to start later this year.

Avemco Offers “Favored Rates” for Selected SLSA

By Dan Johnson || May 9, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

"We've experienced a very dramatic improvement in operational safety," said Avemco. Here's the 13 SLSA with "favored rates" --- Legend Cub; Flight Design CTLS, CTsw, MC; CubCrafters Sport Cub and Super Sport Cub; FPNA Valor A-22 (top photo); Jabiru J170 SP, J230 SP, and J250SP (bottom); Remos G-3 and GX; Tecnam P2002 Sierra, P2004 Bravo, P92 Eaglet, and P92S Echo Super.

REPORTING AFTER SUN 'N FUN --- Not as exciting as a perfect landing, insurance is nonetheless a vital component of flying. For the most part: no insurance/no flying. And, as we've seen play out on the national stage with AIG (though not the aviation division) insurance is anything but assured when it comes to even giant companies failing. When you pay thousands of dollars per year as one expense of your flying, you want to know your company will be around to cover any loss. *** Avemco says it is the largest direct insurer -- meaning they deal insurance company to owner without a middleman. They also report receiving an A+ rating for 25 consecutive years from A.M. Best, the insurance rating agency. Yet it gets much better. *** At Sun 'n Fun Avemco president, Jim Lauerman announced "favored rates" for selected Special Light-Sport Aircraft (see photo caption). This means that Avemco has judged these brands worked hard to assure good transition training, which has resulted in reduced losses. They also provide good parts availability and have reasonable repair costs. *** The great news surrounds reducing claims from LSA operators. Avemco went from high losses per premium dollar to "finding a small profit from the business...for a three year old product, that's not bad." In fact, that's good for Light-Sport Aircraft: Have insurance/will keep flying!

REPORTING AFTER SUN ‘N FUN — Not as exciting as a perfect landing, insurance is nonetheless a vital component of flying. For the most part: no insurance/no flying. And, as we’ve seen play out on the national stage with AIG (though not the aviation division) insurance is anything but assured when it comes to even giant companies failing. When you pay thousands of dollars per year as one expense of your flying, you want to know your company will be around to cover any loss. *** Avemco says it is the largest direct insurer — meaning they deal insurance company to owner without a middleman. They also report receiving an A+ rating for 25 consecutive years from A.M. Best, the insurance rating agency. Yet it gets much better. *** At Sun ‘n Fun Avemco president, Jim Lauerman announced “favored rates” for selected Special Light-Sport Aircraft (see photo caption).

Sport Pilot and LSA Still Being Discovered

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

Aero Innovations -- Not only do Light-Sport Aircraft cost much less than new GA aircraft, but this segment of aviation gives birth to creativity less common among Type Certificated aircraft. Above we see a clean, composite Hungarian seaplane and the super-sleek Synchro from FlySynthesis of Italy as seen at Germany's Aero show.

I check news sources in several ways: print, Internet, broadcast. I also check news on my iPhone and today the top U.S. headline on my news server (Mobile News Network, an Associated Press outlet) read: "Economy Buffeting Student Pilots, Flight Schools." The story from AP's Dayton, Ohio office was professionally written by James Hannah. He did his research by contacting various student pilots and flight school operators plus a spokesman for AOPA. Those interviewed related the dream of flight but lamented the cost of a Private license, which was repeated at the $10,000 price level. The costs of lessons, fuel, and rental or ownership were all faulted for being too high for today's precarious economy. *** The leading 27 paragraphs of the article drove home the high-cost of flying... but finally, in paragraphs 28 and 29 (of 31 total), author Hannah referenced Sport Pilot (though with not one word about Light-Sport Aircraft). He got it right saying, "The license costs half as much and can be obtained twice as fast." *** My message about this article -- which, I repeat, showed up at the very top of U.S. news headlines from a large news organization -- suggests that cool as our LSA airplanes are and as cost efficient as the Sport Pilot certificate is... most folks, even in aviation, have more to learn about them. If that's an accurate statement and if our Light-Sport Aircraft are as much fun as we think, then growing sales should follow increased awareness of SP/LSA.

Sun ‘n Fun Finishes; Gorgeous Weather Sells Planes

By Dan Johnson || April 30, 2009 Leave a Comment (Edit)

LSA Mall Hosted by LAMA -- Traffic in the LSA Mall was dense every morning, even though confusion was evident regarding entry gate locations thanks to a new 8-foot-high chain link fence erected by TSA. Nineteen aircraft models were on display including many industry leaders and some new introductions.

REPORTING FROM SUN 'N FUN --- Early estimates from Sun 'n Fun show total attendance down just slightly (between 5 and 10%) compared to April 2008. A year ago, sub-prime loans were the concern and few knew how difficult the following year would be. Measured by exhibitors, Sun 'n Fun was also off last year's all-time record of 522 but only by 4%. The best news included no serious accidents though a SportCruiser ran off the end of the Light Plane Area's 1,400-foot runway. *** From my view in the LSA Mall positioned right at the main gate, crowds were especially thick on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday while serious buyers arrived early on Tuesday and Wednesday (following a common airshow routine evident the last few years). Airplane shoppers were plentiful though sales reports were uneven. Some, like Flight Design, FPNA, and Evektor, reported sales transacted in the first days of the show. Leads, the real currency on the airshow circuit, were substantial according to staff from Remos, Jabiru, Sting, Gobosh, IndUS, and Aerotrek. Newcomers (Paradise, SeaRey, SeaMax) and low price leaders (Apollo Fox and X-Air) reported success discovering customers in the Mall. *** In a recession, how can we account for the upbeat action? My theory is that LSA are showing market maturity (increasing brand familiarity) and their low costs -- when comparing new LSA prices to new GA aircraft -- are helping producers and importers find new customers in the midst of, perhaps because of, the economic downturn. One particular strength many sellers report: flight schools are expressing rising interest.

REPORTING FROM SUN ‘N FUN — Early estimates from Sun ‘n Fun show total attendance down just slightly (between 5 and 10%) compared to April 2008. A year ago, sub-prime loans were the concern and few knew how difficult the following year would be. Measured by exhibitors, Sun ‘n Fun was also off last year’s all-time record of 522 but only by 4%. The best news included no serious accidents though a SportCruiser ran off the end of the Light Plane Area’s 1,400-foot runway. *** From my view in the LSA Mall positioned right at the main gate, crowds were especially thick on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday while serious buyers arrived early on Tuesday and Wednesday (following a common airshow routine evident the last few years). Airplane shoppers were plentiful though sales reports were uneven. Some, like Flight Design, FPNA, and Evektor, reported sales transacted in the first days of the show.

Sun ‘n Fun LSA Mall 2009 Ready for Visitors

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

Confirmed participants in the 2009 LSA Mall include: FPNA Valor A-22; Flight Design CT; Paradise P-1; Remos GX; Gobosh G700S; Sportsplanes Breezer; AirMax SeaMax; Apollo North America Apollo Fox; FK Lightplanes Fk9 on floats; TL Ultralight Sting S-3; AMD CH-650 LS; T&T Aviation Falcon; 3Xtrim Navigator 600; Jabiru J-230; Arion Lightning; and, SeaRey LSX; and, IndUS Aviation Thorpedo. More than 80% of Sun 'n Fun visitors will pass through the LSA Mall.

REPORTING FROM SUN 'N FUN --- For the last three years, Sun 'n Fun management has generously provided an excellent location at this season-launching airshow. Coordinated by LAMA, the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association, the industry has responded warmly, each year populating the LSA Mall with some of the best selling aircraft in the sector. The LSA Mall has become a place where manufacturers want to show their newest products. (By example, the 2009 Mall has the very first Lightning SLSA and the soon-to-be SLSA & ELSA SeaRey amphibian.) *** So, once again, just inside the main entrance gate, visitors will immediately be greeted by a rainbow of Special Light-Sport Aircraft. LSA Malls have proven extremely popular with visitors because this industry showcase of models saves a lot of walking the grounds to compare one aircraft with another. Those still unfamiliar with the newest aviation segment can see a whole fleet of airplanes in close proximity; company reps are on hand to offer details and prices. Although some visitors head west into the forum tent area, most take the east gate entry and find themselves immediately in the LSA Mall. Adding to the flock of airframes in many configurations are engine displays from Jabiru and Rotax with the latter erecting their Rotax Service Center chalet inside the Mall space. Representatives from AirFleet Capital (financing) and ASA (pilot training) will also be present. Come check out the 2009 Sun 'n Fun LSA Mall! Perhaps we'll meet...

REPORTING FROM SUN ‘N FUN — For the last three years, Sun ‘n Fun management has generously provided an excellent location at this season-launching airshow. Coordinated by LAMA, the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association, the industry has responded warmly, each year populating the LSA Mall with some of the best selling aircraft in the sector. The LSA Mall has become a place where manufacturers want to show their newest products. (By example, the 2009 Mall has the very first Lightning SLSA and the soon-to-be SLSA & ELSA SeaRey amphibian.) *** So, once again, just inside the main entrance gate, visitors will immediately be greeted by a rainbow of Special Light-Sport Aircraft. LSA Malls have proven extremely popular with visitors because this industry showcase of models saves a lot of walking the grounds to compare one aircraft with another. Those still unfamiliar with the newest aviation segment can see a whole fleet of airplanes in close proximity; company reps are on hand to offer details and prices.

A Familiar Brand Becomes Newest SLSA Approval

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

Kitfox Super Sport SLSA specs: span 30.67 ft; wing area 128 sq ft; gross weight 1,320 lbs; empty weight 768 lbs (before options); useful load 552 lbs; payload 390 lbs; Rotax 100-hp 912S; 3-blade composite prop; fuel 27 gal; 123-mph (107 kt) cruise; and stall 49 mph (42 kts).

REPORTING FROM SUN 'N FUN --- The season-launching Sun 'n Fun airshow starts in one day and the countdown to SLSA Number 100 rushes onward. Welcome to Kitfox Aircraft -- a U.S. brand you already know (now LSA producer Number 70) -- and their new Super Sport LSA, Number 97 on the SLSA List. *** Kitfox Aircraft is the current owner of a legacy brand in light aviation. A major success story with more than 4,500 aircraft accumulating more than a million flight hours, Kitfox is celebrating its 25th year in business. Kitfox boss John McBean called from Texas as he was enroute to Sun 'n Fun to confirm the airworthiness certificate he forecast a few days earlier. *** Base priced at $83,495, this all-American brand comes with many of the same features seen on costlier LSA. Its moderate price provides basic flight instruments but interesting safety qualities such as an Angle of Attack indicator (a system which compares differential pressure of the upper and lower wing surfaces) and 25 years of history with never a structural failure. Options include the usual glass screens and radios plus 26-inch tires (taildragger only; see photo). If you're interested in buying American, here's a classic choice.

REPORTING FROM SUN ‘N FUN — The season-launching Sun ‘n Fun airshow starts in one day and the countdown to SLSA Number 100 rushes onward. Welcome to Kitfox Aircraft — a U.S. brand you already know (now LSA producer Number 70) — and their new Super Sport LSA, Number 97 on the SLSA List. *** Kitfox Aircraft is the current owner of a legacy brand in light aviation. A major success story with more than 4,500 aircraft accumulating more than a million flight hours, Kitfox is celebrating its 25th year in business. Kitfox boss John McBean called from Texas as he was enroute to Sun ‘n Fun to confirm the airworthiness certificate he forecast a few days earlier. *** Base priced at $83,495, this all-American brand comes with many of the same features seen on costlier LSA. Its moderate price provides basic flight instruments but interesting safety qualities such as an Angle of Attack indicator (a system which compares differential pressure of the upper and lower wing surfaces) and 25 years of history with never a structural failure.

Lightning Fast; Arion Earns SLSA Before Sun ‘n Fun

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

Arion says the 120-hp Lightning can run 138 mph at max continuous power. That's precisely the speed limit for LSA. It sure looks possible, doesn't it? Yet I discovered mild stalls and short take-off roll, characteristics associated with less speedy aircraft. More specs.

After selling 40 aircraft under the Experimental Amateur Built (EAB) rule, Arion has now completed their SLSA approval just in the nick of time before the season-launching Sun 'n Fun starts. Welcome to Lightning -- SLSA #96 -- from Arion Aircraft, which is our 69th company to enter production of Light-Sport Aircraft. *** Lightning got its start back when Jabiru-man Pete Krotje, his son Ben, plus Nick Otterback were dealers for the Spanish Esquale. That lead to the lovely low-wing Lightning though the design borrows from several light aircraft. It may sound like an organic development but the results are definitely worthy. I was highly impressed with a flight in an earlier EAB model, which did not have the speed limitations of LSA. "Extra wing area was added to bring wing loading and stall speeds into compliance with the applicable standards," said Nick. *** Arion won approval on April 15, 2009. I'm pleased to report we expect this airplane in the LSA Mall just inside the main entry gate of Sun 'n Fun starting April 21st. Beside its sweeping lines, the $93,900 base price tag will also draw attention. *** Arion is organized as a different company from Jabiru USA but it shares some of the same brain trust. "We actually had lots of folks give us input on this design," Pete credited graciously. Good job, all!

After selling 40 aircraft under the Experimental Amateur Built (EAB) rule, Arion has now completed their SLSA approval just in the nick of time before the season-launching Sun ‘n Fun starts. Welcome to Lightning — SLSA #96 — from Arion Aircraft, which is our 69th company to enter production of Light-Sport Aircraft. *** Lightning got its start back when Jabiru-man Pete Krotje, his son Ben, plus Nick Otterback were dealers for the Spanish Esquale. That lead to the lovely low-wing Lightning though the design borrows from several light aircraft. It may sound like an organic development but the results are definitely worthy. I was highly impressed with a flight in an earlier EAB model, which did not have the speed limitations of LSA. “Extra wing area was added to bring wing loading and stall speeds into compliance with the applicable standards,” said Nick. *** Arion won approval on April 15, 2009.

Storm Continues; Century Low Wing SLSA

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

The Italian manufacturer -- like many of their counterparts in Europe, but like few in the USA -- offers a high wing (Rally), a low wing (Century), and a seaplane (Sea Storm) though the latter has not yet attempted SLSA airworthiness approval. Formerly, the Rally was manufactured in Michigan by Prestige Aircraft, but health issues forced the business owner to close his doors. (Read earlier SPLOG.) Presently, Rodger Whaley of Air Elite Aviation (AEA) is bringing in the two aircraft models already built in Italy, but he is working on plans to restart U.S.-based manufacturing in the future. While the high wing Rally is built of fiberglass and Kevlar, the low wing Century is an all-metal design. Using different construction is also common in Europe, much less so in the U.S. While Rally has more modest speeds, Century is something of a hot rod that had to be slowed down for American LSA speed limits.

The Light-Sport Aircraft industry is moving closer to Special Light-Sport Aircraft approval Number 100. On March 29th, 2009, the Century became SLSA model number 95. We still sit at 68 companies since Italian-based Storm Aircraft previously earned SLSA approval for their Rally. Both models are represented in the USA by Air Elite Aviation. The Italian manufacturer — like many of their counterparts in Europe, but like few in the USA — offers a high wing (Rally), a low wing (Century), and a seaplane (Sea Storm) though the latter has not yet attempted SLSA airworthiness approval. Formerly, the Rally was manufactured in Michigan by Prestige Aircraft, but health issues forced the business owner to close his doors. (Read earlier SPLOG.) Presently, Rodger Whaley of Air Elite Aviation (AEA) is bringing in the two aircraft models already built in Italy, but he is working on plans to restart U.S.-based manufacturing in the future.

SeaRey LSX; Popular U.S. Seaplane Launching SLSA

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

Aiding designer Kerry Richter (R) is Damir Blazevic, a German engineer now residing in Fort Myers with impressive credentials including work on the giant Airbus A-380. Kit prices start at $29,900 yielding about $60,000 once instrumented, painted, and powered by Rotax 912S. Ready-to-fly SLSA models will start at about $95,000 (not announced yet). See SeaRey LSX at the Sun 'n Fun 2009 LSA Mall just inside the entrance gate.

Seaplane enthusiasts comprise a niche of American aviation but are some of the most passionate of all powered aircraft pilots. Among these, owners of almost 500 SeaRey aircraft belong to one of the tightest knit communities I've seen. Kerry and Wayne Richter, the son and father team that gave birth to the SeaRey (and several other models) have quietly built one of the strongest brands in light seaplanes... and now they are moving into the Special Light-Sport Aircraft space with their new LSX. Kerry says the new model, while visually similar to earlier SeaReys, possesses no fewer than 78 new or revised features including a custom interior and complete rework of the panel. *** I flew with Kerry in the new machine from my Florida home base at Spruce Creek Fly-in. We hopped LSX over to a nearby lake and Kerry executed a couple perfect water landings. Taxiing back is equally exhilarating with SeaRey behaving like a powerful speedboat. The "swept V-hull" cuts the water more smoothly than any seaplane I've flown. Stalls are extremely docile and this seaplane's speeds are impressive at better than 100 mph. Both qualities are aided by small, clear vortex generators along the leading edge. --- UPDATE April 12, 2009 --- A clarification: SeaRey's LSX model will be the company's entry as an Experimental LSA (ELSA). Their fully built SLSA model will be called SeaRey Sport. The ELSA model is relatively rare, given the industry's muted response to-date on the concept of a kit LSA that can be 1-99% completed by the factory. While a mostly done kit won't save much, it allows more flexibility regarding owner maintenance and modification.