Dan Johnson, Author at ByDanJohnson.com

U.S. Built A-22 Valor Wins SLSA #49

By Dan Johnson || April 8, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Using see-through doors and aft fuselage plus a windscreen that extends overhead, A-22 is a visually open LSA. Read about Aeroprakt, the company, or read my A-20 report. I expect to fly and report on the A-22 soon.

After I flew the A-20 and A-22 near Aeroprakt's Ukraine factory, I felt sure these designs would find their way to the U.S. market. Now that Sebring-based Float Planes and Amphibs (FPNA) assumed import operations from Spectrum Aircraft, you can buy planes like the great-flying A-20 Vista or the tractor engine amphib A-24 Viking. FPNA also builds an amphibious float system for trikes and sells other lines like Quicksilver ultralights and powered parachutes. *** But their newest achievement on March 31st, a couple weeks before Sun 'n Fun 2007, was SLSA approval for the A-22 Valor. FPNA is the manufacturer of this model, purchasing the fuselage and selected other components from designer Aeroprakt in Ukraine, but building 60% of the airplane themselves including wings, avionics and panel work, engine installation, plus all plumbing and electrical. FPNA owner Shawn Okun says the Orlando MIDO office gave their approval. Shawn also hired Jim Stephenson's SAFE organization to assist with SLSA compliance.

After I flew the A-20 and A-22 near Aeroprakt’s Ukraine factory, I felt sure these designs would find their way to the U.S. market. Now that Sebring-based Float Planes and Amphibs (FPNA) assumed import operations from Spectrum Aircraft, you can buy planes like the great-flying A-20 Vista or the tractor engine amphib A-24 Viking. FPNA also builds an amphibious float system for trikes and sells other lines like Quicksilver ultralights and powered parachutes. *** But their newest achievement on March 31st, a couple weeks before Sun ‘n Fun 2007, was SLSA approval for the A-22 Valor. FPNA is the manufacturer of this model, purchasing the fuselage and selected other components from designer Aeroprakt in Ukraine, but building 60% of the airplane themselves including wings, avionics and panel work, engine installation, plus all plumbing and electrical. FPNA owner Shawn Okun says the Orlando MIDO office gave their approval.

Wills Wing Demo Days at Wallaby Ranch

By Dan Johnson || March 31, 2007 2 Comments (Edit)

If you read the headline and thought, "Oh, Boy!," you're probably a hang glider pilot. If you read the headline and said, "Huh!?," a wonderful experience still awaits you. For 15 years, I've sent many friends to Wallaby Ranch. Every single one said they were glad they went. Some went flying hang gliders (wheel-launched with an instructor; photo). Some didn't fly but observed the action. All thoroughly enjoyed themselves at this most-unusual flight park. If you live in the southeast or if you're headed to Sun 'n Fun, you may want to visit Wallaby during Wills Wing Demo Days. Wills Wing is the largest American producer of hang gliders and they bring a big batch of them for potential customers to check out. During Demo Days, Wallaby comes alive with hot action and good times. Get directions to Wallaby (just northwest of the I-4 and US 27 intersection). Then put on your good-time hat (or helmet) and head to the "Ranch."

If you read the headline and thought, “Oh, Boy!,” you’re probably a hang glider pilot. If you read the headline and said, “Huh!?,” a wonderful experience still awaits you. For 15 years, I’ve sent many friends to Wallaby Ranch. Every single one said they were glad they went. Some went flying hang gliders (wheel-launched with an instructor; photo). Some didn’t fly but observed the action. All thoroughly enjoyed themselves at this most-unusual flight park. If you live in the southeast or if you’re headed to Sun ‘n Fun, you may want to visit Wallaby during Wills Wing Demo Days. Wills Wing is the largest American producer of hang gliders and they bring a big batch of them for potential customers to check out. During Demo Days, Wallaby comes alive with hot action and good times. Get directions to Wallaby (just northwest of the I-4 and US 27 intersection).

Skylark, a “Clean Sheet” Light-Sport Aircraft

By Dan Johnson || March 27, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Many pilots are drawn to an airplane with winglets, but it may be the reflexed flaps that do more for Skylark's top speed (approximately 130 mph). Inset photo shows neutral ailerons with the flaps positioned slightly above (circled). You can read my Skylark flight review in EAA Sport Pilot for May 2007.

When you walk up to Skylark, you get an impression that usually lasts (a marketer's dream come true). While uncommon in light sport aviation winglets are well established on fast airplanes from bizjets to airliners. As a design feature, winglets that stick in your mind make the wingtip device a winner for sales reasons; any aerodynamic gain is icing on the cake. *** Burt Rutan is credited with first using the idea on his VariEze in 1975 and it was subsequently used by the Learjet 28 and the McDonnell Douglas MD-11. But the concept was invented even before the Wright Brothers first flight, way back in 1897. Even then they knew about wingtip vortices. Get more winglet info. Skylark has become Sportsplanes.com's top-of-the-line LSA, flanked by the Breezer, C42, and American Flyer. Skylark was designed by Canadian David Marsden, who engaged Dova of Czech Republic to built it, later selling them the design rights. Skylark is an all-metal SLSA.

When you walk up to Skylark, you get an impression that usually lasts (a marketer’s dream come true). While uncommon in light sport aviation winglets are well established on fast airplanes from bizjets to airliners. As a design feature, winglets that stick in your mind make the wingtip device a winner for sales reasons; any aerodynamic gain is icing on the cake. *** Burt Rutan is credited with first using the idea on his VariEze in 1975 and it was subsequently used by the Learjet 28 and the McDonnell Douglas MD-11. But the concept was invented even before the Wright Brothers first flight, way back in 1897. Even then they knew about wingtip vortices. Get more winglet info. Skylark has become Sportsplanes.com‘s top-of-the-line LSA, flanked by the Breezer, C42, and American Flyer. Skylark was designed by Canadian David Marsden, who engaged Dova of Czech Republic to built it, later selling them the design rights.

LSA Training Aircraft Welcomed to Embry Riddle

By Dan Johnson || March 22, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Two of four LSA present include the Evektor SportStar (foreground) and Storm Rally, along with the Tecnam Echo Super and Czech Aircraft Works SportCruiser. Evektor importer Jeff Conrad believes his LSA is presently in the lead of penetrating flight schools with 20 SportStars being used as trainers.

A month before Sun 'n Fun helps to kick off the new year, I visited Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Daytona Beach as the big aero school hosted dozens of universities at the National Training Aircraft Symposium. The third of these events to gather academia with industry invited Light-Sport Aircraft to participate. University aeronautical department leaders know general aviation best but clearly recognize LSA and value their economical operation. Plus, these are aeronautical places of learning and SP/LSA is now part of the FARs they teach. Many sessions at NTAS were highly technical, aimed at helping to prepare students for airline careers. Yet every student has to solo and simple flying machines have a secure future. "The LSA panel session was lively," said ERAU organizers, "and the questions were good." ERAU is one of our major educators for young aviators; their interest in LSA is timely and appropriate. Read all about ERAU.

A month before Sun ‘n Fun helps to kick off the new year, I visited Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Daytona Beach as the big aero school hosted dozens of universities at the National Training Aircraft Symposium. The third of these events to gather academia with industry invited Light-Sport Aircraft to participate. University aeronautical department leaders know general aviation best but clearly recognize LSA and value their economical operation. Plus, these are aeronautical places of learning and SP/LSA is now part of the FARs they teach. Many sessions at NTAS were highly technical, aimed at helping to prepare students for airline careers. Yet every student has to solo and simple flying machines have a secure future. “The LSA panel session was lively,” said ERAU organizers, “and the questions were good.” ERAU is one of our major educators for young aviators; their interest in LSA is timely and appropriate.

Ultralight Adventures (and More) in Downtown Miami

By Dan Johnson || March 19, 2007 6 Comments (Edit)

With downtown Miami only half a mile away, Ultralight Adventures does seaplane-based training and intro flights in one of the most cosmopolitan settings imaginable. That's how you attract celebrity customers like Enrique Iglesias, a top Latin singer (and son of Julio) seen taxiing in this photo.

More than a decade ago, Tony Anderson started teaching students how to fly on floats. Today, his family enterprise spreads across three aviation businesses. In a recent visit I was most impressed to witness what the Andersons have built. From their home base with hangar right on an in-town lake to the North Perry Airport FBO to a downtown Miami seaplane operation, Tony and son Adriel have this major tropical metro covered. At North Perry they also run their FK Lightplanes USA enterprise, importing and selling the Fk9, Polaris, and Comet. On my visit the Fk9 used for training was constantly busy plus I saw two brand-new Fk9s available for immediate delivery. Across the city in downtown Miami, Tony and Adriel operate several Drifter 912s on straight Lotus floats. Adriel directs this training and intro lesson operation. He's accumulated a rather astounding 5,000 hours in one particular Drifter and it isn't the only aircraft he flies.

More than a decade ago, Tony Anderson started teaching students how to fly on floats. Today, his family enterprise spreads across three aviation businesses. In a recent visit I was most impressed to witness what the Andersons have built. From their home base with hangar right on an in-town lake to the North Perry Airport FBO to a downtown Miami seaplane operation, Tony and son Adriel have this major tropical metro covered. At North Perry they also run their FK Lightplanes USA enterprise, importing and selling the Fk9, Polaris, and Comet. On my visit the Fk9 used for training was constantly busy plus I saw two brand-new Fk9s available for immediate delivery. Across the city in downtown Miami, Tony and Adriel operate several Drifter 912s on straight Lotus floats. Adriel directs this training and intro lesson operation. He’s accumulated a rather astounding 5,000 hours in one particular Drifter and it isn’t the only aircraft he flies.

U.S. Leading Manufacturer of LSA Remains a Legend

By Dan Johnson || March 12, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Legend Cub is one of three LSA Cub replica builders, but enjoys a wide lead among ALL American-made Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Click to read my Legend Cub report. Visit the list of all SLSA.

With the delivery of their 88th Legend Cub, the Sulphur Springs, Texas-based company handily confirmed its well-out-in-front leadership among American companies building SLSA. If fact, among the entire fleet, Legend is a solid number two behind Flight Design and its CT, a good margin ahead of next-best producers Fantasy Air, TL Ultralight, Evektor, Tecnam, and AMD (according to the best info I have). Other U.S. built LSA companies include IndUS, RANS, Jabiru USA, CubCrafters, Skykits, Just Aircraft, Luscombe, Prestige, Delta Jet (trike), and Infinity (PPC). Seventeen models -- a shade over a third -- of 48 currently approved are either "Made in the USA" or foreign designs built in the U.S. *** All-American Legend recently listed their many achievements in less than two years since the first SLSA approvals including: Jabiru (or Continental) power, floats, glass cockpit, special paint schemes...all in addition to many Piper J-3 improvements, such as a wider cockpit, doors on both sides, and fly from either seat capability.

With the delivery of their 88th Legend Cub, the Sulphur Springs, Texas-based company handily confirmed its well-out-in-front leadership among American companies building SLSA. If fact, among the entire fleet, Legend is a solid number two behind Flight Design and its CT, a good margin ahead of next-best producers Fantasy Air, TL Ultralight, Evektor, Tecnam, and AMD (according to the best info I have). Other U.S. built LSA companies include IndUS, RANS, Jabiru USA, CubCrafters, Skykits, Just Aircraft, Luscombe, Prestige, Delta Jet (trike), and Infinity (PPC). Seventeen models — a shade over a third — of 48 currently approved are either “Made in the USA” or foreign designs built in the U.S. *** All-American Legend recently listed their many achievements in less than two years since the first SLSA approvals including: Jabiru (or Continental) power, floats, glass cockpit, special paint schemes…all in addition to many Piper J-3 improvements, such as a wider cockpit, doors on both sides, and fly from either seat capability.

Famous Flying Boat; 1st Flight in the Metal Amphib

By Dan Johnson || March 9, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Developer Danny Defelici poses by the Czech Aircraft Works Mermaid at his home base of Naked Lady Ranch. The inset photo shows the water rudder that decends from the aerodynamic rudder (via a cockpit lever).

Continuing the tour of floatplanes (yes, I remember it's winter up north even while I tour the tropical south, but what a good time to think about warmer days to come)...we paid a visit to the home field of Sport Aircraft Works. SAW is the U.S. marketing arm for Czech Aircraft Works (CZAW) and their SportCruiser, Parrot, and Mermaid. SAW proprietor Danny Defelici aided CZAW in the development of all three LSA. *** A crowning achievement was completing work on the amphibious Mermaid. I was the lucky first U.S. journalist to fly Mermaid! With its 120-hp Jabiru 3300, Mermaid performs well on land or water. Hiking up or dropping the gear is done via an easily-reached, hand-pumped hydraulic lever in the center console. Taxiing up on a beach proved effortless. Danny has taken CZAW's Mermaid and fashioned an enjoyable amphib, coincidentally the first such to gain an FAA exemption allowing a properly trained Sport Pilot to, ahem...reposition the gear.

Continuing the tour of floatplanes (yes, I remember it’s winter up north even while I tour the tropical south, but what a good time to think about warmer days to come)…we paid a visit to the home field of Sport Aircraft Works. SAW is the U.S. marketing arm for Czech Aircraft Works (CZAW) and their SportCruiser, Parrot, and Mermaid. SAW proprietor Danny Defelici aided CZAW in the development of all three LSA. *** A crowning achievement was completing work on the amphibious Mermaid. I was the lucky first U.S. journalist to fly Mermaid! With its 120-hp Jabiru 3300, Mermaid performs well on land or water. Hiking up or dropping the gear is done via an easily-reached, hand-pumped hydraulic lever in the center console. Taxiing up on a beach proved effortless. Danny has taken CZAW’s Mermaid and fashioned an enjoyable amphib, coincidentally the first such to gain an FAA exemption allowing a properly trained Sport Pilot to, ahem…reposition the gear.

NH:Friends of Dan

By Dan Johnson || March 9, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

If you want a forum for Sport Pilot and Light-Sport Aircraft, you need look no further than SportPilotTalk.com. This comprehensive and professionally designed website will let you sound off on a variety of topics. You can also find many links to other valuable resources. Adventure Productions has a complete line of DVD and printed book products to help you learn about Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft. Clicking their link above leads you to their pilot store where you can order direct from them. Your purchases via my Adventure Productions affiliation will help support ByDanJohnson.com. Sharing the cost of a new LSA makes a lot of sense. LetsFly.org is committed to helping you do this. Through my ByDanJohnson.com affilation with LetsFly.org, you can also order flight accessories. Your purchases via my LetsFly web presence will help support ByDanJohnson.com.

AMD’s CH-601 XL Goes Ballistic

By Dan Johnson || March 3, 2007 2 Comments (Edit)

Factory pilot and Sales Director John Degonia flies the AMD CH-601 XL near their Georgia plant. To view video of the seat belt airbags and read owner testimonials click here.

For years BRS Parachutes sold emergency systems to ultralight pilots. Then along came Cirrus Design, who installed the CAPS (Cirrus Airframe Parachute System) on their SR-20 and SR-22 models as standard equipment. It was a bold and unproven tactic, but today, the SR-22 is the best selling general aviation aircraft in the world. Did the parachute help that success? "Absolutely," says Cirrus president, Alan Klapmeier. Light-Sport Aircraft producers commonly offer parachute systems: Flight Design CT uses a BRS 1350 HS as standard equipment; TL's StingSport comes with Galaxy. *** Now Aircraft Manufacturing and Development (AMD) has added the BRS to a long list of available safety features: Amsafe seat belt airbags, lightning protection (on the IFR certified CH-601 XLi model), Tetra foam seat cushions (to absorb "G" loads on hard touchdowns), and a FAR 33 certified aircraft engine, the Continental 0-200. The Eastman, Georgia-based LSA producer certified a BRS-equipped airplane at the end of January 2007.

For years BRS Parachutes sold emergency systems to ultralight pilots. Then along came Cirrus Design, who installed the CAPS (Cirrus Airframe Parachute System) on their SR-20 and SR-22 models as standard equipment. It was a bold and unproven tactic, but today, the SR-22 is the best selling general aviation aircraft in the world. Did the parachute help that success? “Absolutely,” says Cirrus president, Alan Klapmeier. Light-Sport Aircraft producers commonly offer parachute systems: Flight Design CT uses a BRS 1350 HS as standard equipment; TL’s StingSport comes with Galaxy. *** Now Aircraft Manufacturing and Development (AMD) has added the BRS to a long list of available safety features: Amsafe seat belt airbags, lightning protection (on the IFR certified CH-601 XLi model), Tetra foam seat cushions (to absorb “G” loads on hard touchdowns), and a FAR 33 certified aircraft engine, the Continental 0-200.

An “X Prize” for Light-Sport Aircraft?

By Dan Johnson || March 3, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has teamed up with Comparative Aircraft Flight Efficiency (CAFE) to host a flight competition for small aircraft that pays a Quarter of a Million Dollars.

In 2005, NASA teamed up with the CAFE Foundation (best known for flight testing aircraft for EAA) to host the Personal Air Vehicle Centennial Challenge (PAV CC), a $250,000 annual flight competition for small aircraft . "PAV CC is modeled after the 'X Prize' and embodies NASA's commitment to the first 'A' in NASA: Aeronautics," explained CAFE president Brien Seeley. As prizes in aviation go, this is the Big One, stepping up each year to over half a million bucks by 2011. "The big news is that the competition is open to LSA," Brien added. PAVs are defined as "small but highly capable aircraft with 2-6 seats that are suitable for on-demand travel on trips of up to 800 miles." LSA qualify and, except for our speed limitation, could fare quite well in several categories of judging. One requirement is, "Able to be flown by anyone with a driver's license" and LSA certainly have a big edge. Interested in entering the competition? Check out CAFE's PAV website and send your Notice of Interest Letter. A quarter mill awaits your success. The first competition will be held August 4-12, 2007 in Santa Rosa, California. Space is limited to 16 teams.

In 2005, NASA teamed up with the CAFE Foundation (best known for flight testing aircraft for EAA) to host the Personal Air Vehicle Centennial Challenge (PAV CC), a $250,000 annual flight competition for small aircraft . “PAV CC is modeled after the ‘X Prize’ and embodies NASA’s commitment to the first ‘A’ in NASA: Aeronautics,” explained CAFE president Brien Seeley. As prizes in aviation go, this is the Big One, stepping up each year to over half a million bucks by 2011. “The big news is that the competition is open to LSA,” Brien added. PAVs are defined as “small but highly capable aircraft with 2-6 seats that are suitable for on-demand travel on trips of up to 800 miles.” LSA qualify and, except for our speed limitation, could fare quite well in several categories of judging. One requirement is, “Able to be flown by anyone with a driver’s license” and LSA certainly have a big edge.

Flying Boats in Florida; Sampling SeaMax

By Dan Johnson || March 3, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Carlos Bessa is a partner in SeaMax USA. The business co-owner is Malcolm Jones, who operates the world's most established hang glider aerotow flight park (Wallaby Ranch). Carlos also pilots a tug at Wallaby and has logged a rather fantastic 9,000 hours doing so!

My wife, Randee, and I are finding lots of good reasons to winter in Florida (while our home state of Minnesota gets buried in snow). Here's three of those good reasons: SeaMax, Mermaid, and Drifter on Lotus floats. Float flying in winter is different...and fun! *** I have now flown the SeaMax three times. Yesterday we did three water and three land touchdowns. What a hot little flying boat. (Earlier SeaMax SPLOG) I use the word "little" literally...the amphib high wing LSA barely comes up to my chest and gross weight is only 1,144 pounds; LSA floatplanes can weigh 1,430 pounds. At this weight SeaMax performs brilliantly with the 100-hp Rotax 912S; 4800 rpm produces more than 100 mph. SeaMax has not yet finished its work to achieve SLSA status. But since this is the designer's 22nd creation and as over 45 SeaMax aircraft have been sold into Europe and elsewhere, the task is not difficult, just time consuming. This is one to watch.

My wife, Randee, and I are finding lots of good reasons to winter in Florida (while our home state of Minnesota gets buried in snow). Here’s three of those good reasons: SeaMax, Mermaid, and Drifter on Lotus floats. Float flying in winter is different…and fun! *** I have now flown the SeaMax three times. Yesterday we did three water and three land touchdowns. What a hot little flying boat. (Earlier SeaMax SPLOG) I use the word “little” literally…the amphib high wing LSA barely comes up to my chest and gross weight is only 1,144 pounds; LSA floatplanes can weigh 1,430 pounds. At this weight SeaMax performs brilliantly with the 100-hp Rotax 912S; 4800 rpm produces more than 100 mph. SeaMax has not yet finished its work to achieve SLSA status. But since this is the designer’s 22nd creation and as over 45 SeaMax aircraft have been sold into Europe and elsewhere, the task is not difficult, just time consuming.

First Storm Rally Assembled in the USA

By Dan Johnson || February 23, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

The #1 U.S.-built Storm Rally rolled out of the hangar in basic white as its owner plans a custom paint job (wheel pants will also be added). For more info, call 269-273-8441 or email Air Elite Aviation.

Michigan-based Prestige Aircraft recently rolled out their first U.S.-built Storm Rally. Examples of this attractive high wing aircraft seen at airshows like AirVenture 2006 were manufactured by the Italian company that created the design. Now, Prestige builds the Rally under an agreement with Storm Aircraft and plans to add the low wing Century and amphibious Sea Storm in the future. *** Rally, which won its SLSA approval in early 2006, is a carbon fiber and Kevlar reinforced composite design that comes equipped with basic flight instruments and equipment for VFR day operation including a turn-coordinator; tail-strobe; ICON 200 radio; and Garmin transponder with an altitude encoder. Unlike many other brands, national distributor Air Elite Aviation says, "All aircraft models come with a limited two-year, or 1000-hour warranty." Rally can cruise at 107 knots (75% power) and, with 34 gallons of usable fuel, it boasts an 800 nautical mile range.

Michigan-based Prestige Aircraft recently rolled out their first U.S.-built Storm Rally. Examples of this attractive high wing aircraft seen at airshows like AirVenture 2006 were manufactured by the Italian company that created the design. Now, Prestige builds the Rally under an agreement with Storm Aircraft and plans to add the low wing Century and amphibious Sea Storm in the future. *** Rally, which won its SLSA approval in early 2006, is a carbon fiber and Kevlar reinforced composite design that comes equipped with basic flight instruments and equipment for VFR day operation including a turn-coordinator; tail-strobe; ICON 200 radio; and Garmin transponder with an altitude encoder. Unlike many other brands, national distributor Air Elite Aviation says, “All aircraft models come with a limited two-year, or 1000-hour warranty.” Rally can cruise at 107 knots (75% power) and, with 34 gallons of usable fuel, it boasts an 800 nautical mile range.

Fascinated with the Rotax 912? Learn More at Home.

By Dan Johnson || February 22, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

You can purchase ASA's Rotax 9-Series DVD program and booklet directly from Adventure Productions (call 775-747-0175) or Lockwood Aviation.

At airshows or other gatherings, I'm always amazed at how many pilots attend talks on engines like the Rotax 912. For those who thirst for more, here's the newest DVD from ASA's Freedom to Fly video series on the operation and maintenance of a Rotax 912. ASA's program covers a wide range from checking the oil to reviews of the electrical system or carburetor synchronization to cold weather techniques. Learning the right methods can prolong engine life and reduce maintenance costs. The video production features a talented group composed of ASA's Sport Pilot expert Paul Hamilton with Phil Lockwood of Lockwood Aviation and Dean Vogel from the Aero Technical Institute. "This DVD is particularly useful to maintenance professionals, pilots, and flight instructors operating Rotax-powered Light-Sport Aircraft," said Hamilton. He reports the program is the only one of its kind. The DVD, $49.95, runs 68 minutes and includes 17 minutes of bonus features plus a booklet with quick reference checklists.

At airshows or other gatherings, I’m always amazed at how many pilots attend talks on engines like the Rotax 912. For those who thirst for more, here’s the newest DVD from ASA‘s Freedom to Fly video series on the operation and maintenance of a Rotax 912. ASA’s program covers a wide range from checking the oil to reviews of the electrical system or carburetor synchronization to cold weather techniques. Learning the right methods can prolong engine life and reduce maintenance costs. The video production features a talented group composed of ASA’s Sport Pilot expert Paul Hamilton with Phil Lockwood of Lockwood Aviation and Dean Vogel from the Aero Technical Institute. “This DVD is particularly useful to maintenance professionals, pilots, and flight instructors operating Rotax-powered Light-Sport Aircraft,” said Hamilton. He reports the program is the only one of its kind. The DVD, $49.95, runs 68 minutes and includes 17 minutes of bonus features plus a booklet with quick reference checklists.

Nose Job and New Boots for Thorpedo LP

By Dan Johnson || February 16, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

IndUS owner Ram Pattisapu poses beside his Thorpedo with a mockup of the new nose cowl designed for the Dallas-based company by LoPresti Speed Merchants. Read my Thorpedo report.

How to extract more performance from a 60-year-old design? How about a nose job? Pilots understand a smoother shape lends more speed to a design, but you may not sense the total gain possible without adding horsepower or burning more fuel. General aviation companies like Mooney, Cessna, and Piper hired LoPresti Speed Merchants to help boost speed. *** At the 2007 Sebring LSA Expo IndUS Aviation revealed a new LoPresti nose cowl for their Thorpedo LP; plus reshaped wing tips which enclose nav and landing lights plus strobes, and new landing gear fairings...which, being Texans, they called "cowboy boots." LoPresti engineers say the streamlined improvements will boost Thorpedo's speed near the LSA limit of 120 knots. A 75% power cruise gain of 20% is forecast. The new components modernize the lines of this venerable John Thorp design from the 1940s, though it may seem hard to improve on a airplane that never required a single Airworthiness Directive!

How to extract more performance from a 60-year-old design? How about a nose job? Pilots understand a smoother shape lends more speed to a design, but you may not sense the total gain possible without adding horsepower or burning more fuel. General aviation companies like Mooney, Cessna, and Piper hired LoPresti Speed Merchants to help boost speed. *** At the 2007 Sebring LSA Expo IndUS Aviation revealed a new LoPresti nose cowl for their Thorpedo LP; plus reshaped wing tips which enclose nav and landing lights plus strobes, and new landing gear fairings…which, being Texans, they called “cowboy boots.” LoPresti engineers say the streamlined improvements will boost Thorpedo’s speed near the LSA limit of 120 knots. A 75% power cruise gain of 20% is forecast. The new components modernize the lines of this venerable John Thorp design from the 1940s, though it may seem hard to improve on a airplane that never required a single Airworthiness Directive!

Delightful-to-Fly Light-Sport Aircraft from Poland

By Dan Johnson || February 10, 2007 2 Comments (Edit)

The 3X55 Trainer from 3Xtrim company looks pretty conventional in its basic shape but don't let looks deceive you. I found this straightforward airplane to have wonderful flight qualities. Look for my report in a future issue of EAA Sport Pilot.

Much attention on LSA seems to focus on U.S.-built aircraft or those from Czech Republic. Of course we have many other countries contributing to the growing U.S. fleet including Germany, Italy, and Australia. While Poland also contributes fabrication to the German-designed FK Lightplane series, the country isn't widely known to Americans as an LSA provider. Its fuselage boom with vertical flanges (assembled from two fuselage halves) shows how this airplane descends from sailplane gliders built for many years in Eastern Europe. Imported by Rainbow Sport Aviation in Canada, the creator of the 3X55 is Adam Kurbiel, who designed gliders at the SZD-PZL glider factory before turning his attention to light airplanes. A modest cruiser (88 knots or 101 mph at 75% power), 3X55 handles beautifully and lands easily. The 47-inch-wide interior is nicely appointed with modern controls to match more expensive aircraft. Priced at $73,500 with the 80-hp Rotax, 3X55 seems a relative bargain.

Much attention on LSA seems to focus on U.S.-built aircraft or those from Czech Republic. Of course we have many other countries contributing to the growing U.S. fleet including Germany, Italy, and Australia. While Poland also contributes fabrication to the German-designed FK Lightplane series, the country isn’t widely known to Americans as an LSA provider. Its fuselage boom with vertical flanges (assembled from two fuselage halves) shows how this airplane descends from sailplane gliders built for many years in Eastern Europe. Imported by Rainbow Sport Aviation in Canada, the creator of the 3X55 is Adam Kurbiel, who designed gliders at the SZD-PZL glider factory before turning his attention to light airplanes. A modest cruiser (88 knots or 101 mph at 75% power), 3X55 handles beautifully and lands easily. The 47-inch-wide interior is nicely appointed with modern controls to match more expensive aircraft. Priced at $73,500 with the 80-hp Rotax, 3X55 seems a relative bargain.

Flying a Hand Control Sky Arrow at Spruce Creek

By Dan Johnson || February 8, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Standing with Jon Hansen and his Sky Arrow, I am holding the hand control lever [inset photo] that can be fitted in seconds. You push or pull to taxi steer and twist for throttle control. Photo by Randee Laskewitz

Maybe you've heard about Able Flight, an organization formed to assist people with disabilities to fly. This worthy effort recently awarded its first two scholarships with more to come. Sponsors are lining up and this summer will see a special presentation at AirVenture Oshkosh. The aircraft of Able Flight's focus is the Sky Arrow which offers special hardware allowing the SLSA to be flown via hand controls. *** I had the chance to fly the Sky Arrow with Jon Hansen of Hansen Air Group, the eastern rep for Sky Arrow USA. We flew at Spruce Creek (near Daytona, Florida), which bills itself as the "World's Finest Residential Airpark" and must also be one of the largest with some 500 homes that offer nearby parking for airplanes or an attached hangar. *** Flying Sky Arrow with the hand controls was different but highly effective. No great muscular strength is needed and the right techique is easily acquired.

Maybe you’ve heard about Able Flight, an organization formed to assist people with disabilities to fly. This worthy effort recently awarded its first two scholarships with more to come. Sponsors are lining up and this summer will see a special presentation at AirVenture Oshkosh. The aircraft of Able Flight’s focus is the Sky Arrow which offers special hardware allowing the SLSA to be flown via hand controls. *** I had the chance to fly the Sky Arrow with Jon Hansen of Hansen Air Group, the eastern rep for Sky Arrow USA. We flew at Spruce Creek (near Daytona, Florida), which bills itself as the “World’s Finest Residential Airpark” and must also be one of the largest with some 500 homes that offer nearby parking for airplanes or an attached hangar. *** Flying Sky Arrow with the hand controls was different but highly effective.

Special LSA Certificate Given by FAA

By Dan Johnson || February 6, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Tom Peghiny poses in front of a Flight Designs CT on the day FAA awarded a Special Light-Sport Aircraft certificate.

Sun 'n Fun 2005 started off with a bang when Flightstar Sportplanes' Tom Peghiny heard the Flight Design CT he imports was one of the first Special Light-Sport Aircraft to be given its airworthiness certificate. (S-LSAs are fully built and can be used for training or rental.) CT regional dealer Tom Gutmann of Airtime Aviation, Inc., was the recipient of a process Peghiny graciously called "the effort of many people." Watch for full coverage of this benchmark achievement in aviation magazines.

Sun ‘n Fun 2005 started off with a bang when Flightstar Sportplanes’ Tom Peghiny heard the Flight Design CT he imports was one of the first Special Light-Sport Aircraft to be given its airworthiness certificate. (S-LSAs are fully built and can be used for training or rental.) CT regional dealer Tom Gutmann of Airtime Aviation, Inc., was the recipient of a process Peghiny graciously called “the effort of many people.” Watch for full coverage of this benchmark achievement in aviation magazines.

Lockwood Delivering Drifter Kits; Air Cam Coming

By Dan Johnson || February 4, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Though busy with his expanding enterprises, Phil goes aloft with Drifter guru Jeff Hudson (aft seat) to flight check a Drifter 912 on amphibious Lotus floats. Read my Super Drifter 912 report.

When I first met Phil Lockwood, he was selling Drifters. That was more than 20 years ago. In that time the venerable Drifter ultralight went through several owners and many changes. A Drifter model even hailed from Australia for a time. But in a combined deal including the Air Cam -- which Phil designed -- all design rights, inventory, tooling, documentation returned home...to Lockwood enterprises (Read July 5, 2006 SPLOG). A 7,000 square-foot addition enlarges Lockwood's facility to house the new activity. On a tour of this facility after the Sebring Expo I saw the stockpile of components that demanded a new building. Initially Phil expected only to supply Drifter parts to service about 1,000 aircraft flying around the globe. But early demand has staffers shipping a few kits even while they complete the factory. Lockwood also plans to deliver full Air Cam kits bringing this hugely delightful aircraft back to regular production. Welcome back, Drifter and Air Cam!

When I first met Phil Lockwood, he was selling Drifters. That was more than 20 years ago. In that time the venerable Drifter ultralight went through several owners and many changes. A Drifter model even hailed from Australia for a time. But in a combined deal including the Air Cam — which Phil designed — all design rights, inventory, tooling, documentation returned home…to Lockwood enterprises (Read July 5, 2006 SPLOG). A 7,000 square-foot addition enlarges Lockwood’s facility to house the new activity. On a tour of this facility after the Sebring Expo I saw the stockpile of components that demanded a new building. Initially Phil expected only to supply Drifter parts to service about 1,000 aircraft flying around the globe. But early demand has staffers shipping a few kits even while they complete the factory. Lockwood also plans to deliver full Air Cam kits bringing this hugely delightful aircraft back to regular production.

Fresh New Breezer Joins LSA Parade

By Dan Johnson || February 4, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

Of recent SLSA approvals Breezer is the newest offering from one of Germany's largest microlight producers. Comco-Ikarus is also the C42 builder and found a big success with German flight schools. Just as AirVenture Oshkosh 2005 started, Breezer won its SLSA certificate. On an exceptionally beautiful day as AirVenture started, I flew this German designed and built design. Very pleasant and straightforward handling plus easy landings, in all a very satisfying experience. You enter from in front of the wing (note step) which makes entry suprisingly easy. Inside you have a huge visual panorama. Watch for my pilot report in Sport Pilot magazine.

Of recent SLSA approvals Breezer is the newest offering from one of Germany’s largest microlight producers. Comco-Ikarus is also the C42 builder and found a big success with German flight schools. Just as AirVenture Oshkosh 2005 started, Breezer won its SLSA certificate. On an exceptionally beautiful day as AirVenture started, I flew this German designed and built design. Very pleasant and straightforward handling plus easy landings, in all a very satisfying experience. You enter from in front of the wing (note step) which makes entry suprisingly easy. Inside you have a huge visual panorama. Watch for my pilot report in Sport Pilot magazine.

A Trio of Savannah SLSA

By Dan Johnson || January 29, 2007 Leave a Comment (Edit)

The background photo shows Savannah VG, newest to win SLSA approval. It has no slats, unlike the first Savannah (inset view) to win airworthiness. Another model, the Savannah ADV, has movable slats. Cruise speeds: Savannah -- 95 mph; Savannah VG -- 102 mph; Savannah ADV -- 115 mph.

OK, this may sound complicated. Savannah is an Italian design which bears some resemblance to the CH-701 (though with numerous differences). It is being assembled by Skykits, a Canadian company with a U.S. location from parts fabricated throughout Europe. Got that? OK, let's add more. Savannah is one fuselage with three diffferent wing variations. While I grant you these perform somewhat differently, I didn't see them as each deserving their own airworthiness. But I'm not FAA...who, it turns out, did want three certificates to prevent owners from wing swapping. So, today, we have SLSA #39 as the "regular" Savannah with the fixed leading edge slat (inset photo); and #47 ADV model with a tapered wing with movable slots (rather significant differences); and the new #48 VG model, which has no slats, insteading using a line of vortex generators. Still with me? OK, finally, you can get all three models in ready-to-fly form, as an ELSA, or as a 51% kit. Whew! Choices are great but require that you do your homework.

OK, this may sound complicated. Savannah is an Italian design which bears some resemblance to the CH-701 (though with numerous differences). It is being assembled by Skykits, a Canadian company with a U.S. location from parts fabricated throughout Europe. Got that? OK, let’s add more. Savannah is one fuselage with three diffferent wing variations. While I grant you these perform somewhat differently, I didn’t see them as each deserving their own airworthiness. But I’m not FAA…who, it turns out, did want three certificates to prevent owners from wing swapping. So, today, we have SLSA #39 as the “regular” Savannah with the fixed leading edge slat (inset photo); and #47 ADV model with a tapered wing with movable slots (rather significant differences); and the new #48 VG model, which has no slats, insteading using a line of vortex generators. Still with me? OK, finally, you can get all three models in ready-to-fly form, as an ELSA, or as a 51% kit.