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Flight Design GmbH

Phone: +49 36920 7530-11

Hoerselberg-Hainich, -- 99820 - Germany

Flight Design Increases F2 Production — Moves CT-Series

By Dan Johnson || October 9, 2024 2 Comments

As we Floridians prepare to face Hurricane Milton starting later today, I'm pleased to give an update on one of our leading companies in the LSA space. I refer to Flight Design, which gained fame for the enviable success of its CT-series aircraft (CT2K, CTSW, CTLS, CTLSi, CT Super). In the United States, more of these models fly as LSA than aircraft from any other brand.

Tom Peghiny flies the first F2 in America. Note the "Experimental" status at the time. F2 has since been accepted by FAA in the LSA category and is "Mosaic-ready."

In the USA, importing Flight Design aircraft is now handled by Airtime Aviation, a leader in its own right. For two decades, Airtime has been the nation's #1 seller of Light-Sport Aircraft, delivering to American pilots a large percentage of those hundreds of CT-series aircraft. Importing was previously handled by Flight Design USA; regional dealers also contributed to enlarging the CT fleet in this country. The German designer has enjoyed good success in numerous countries.

image by AOPA courtesy of Flight Design USA

In addition to those many sales, Flight Design has long been a leader among western producers moving into Eastern Europe to take advantage of skilled technical workers and engineers.

Changing with Global Events

On October 8th, 2024, Flight Design announced, "We have good news to share."

With headquarters in Eisenach, Germany, the company's primary production facility is now located in Sumperk, Czech Republic. For years, the Western European producer has been building aircraft in Kherson, Ukraine. Given daily news coverage, every American knows by now Ukraine has been in defense mode following the Russian invasion almost three years ago. After the situation became completely unworkable — Kherson was an early area to be bombed, then occupied by Russian troops — the company quietly removed tooling, inventory, raw materials, and even some workers to less hazardous facilities in the nearby Czech Republic.

First unveiled at Aero 2019, F2 is a second-generation design following the very popular CT-series.

"F2 series is a very advanced light aircraft," said Flight Design, "available as a Special Light-Sport Aircraft and an EASA CS-23 type-certified aircraft. They are built and production test flown in Sumperk, in the Eastern Moravia region." Flight Design first used Sumperk as an R&D and flight test center during the development of the F2 series before developing production tooling at this location in 2023.

Those black vertical stripes inside the Garmin G3X screens are panel-mounted airbags, a first in the light aircraft space.

F2 is an all-composite high-wing lightplane with many unique safety features including passive stall and spin resistance, a rigid, crashworthy cockpit design and Garmin ESP envelope protection as a part of its advanced, twin-screen Garmin G3X panel. All Flight Design aircraft come with a standard Stratos Magnum Ballistic Parachute System installed. See this prior article explaining F2's stall resistance plus a pilot review.

Increased Production

“The best news is that we are [now] ramping up production in Sumperk after the big task of moving our people and tooling from Ukraine," said Daniel Guenther, Managing Director of Flight Design. "We are currently shipping two F2-LSA a month to Airtime Aviation, our distributor in the USA."

“We are very happy to be receiving more and more F2 aircraft," said Tom Gutmann Jr., manager of Airtime Aviation. "With the extra allowances under Mosaic we believe that sales will only go up from here as it will increase the utility of the F2-LSA for existing planes we delivered as well as newly-built models. An additional benefit of the increased production is improved quality of the planes as delivered.”

FAA’s proposed Mosaic regulation is widely expected to allow higher gross weights and double the speed envelope for the SLSA category. Flight Design envisioned this regulatory overhaul as engineers designed F2. The company believes their planning "will allow previously-delivered F2s to benefit from this significant rule change."

Changes for CT-Series

While the company's focus is clearly on F2 as a next generation model following their solid run with the CT-series, they continue to build the CT-series and offered news on that, too.

"We have recently moved production of the CT-series — including CTLSi and CT Super (nearby image), which continue to be popular worldwide — to our new partners in Kazakhstan. This allows us to focus more on the F2 at Sumperk,” said Daniel. If you can't recall where Kazakhstan is, don't fret. Such remote fabrication has been used by Boeing and Airbus for many years. The parent company in Germany is permitted to sublet work to off-site facilities so long as they maintain control of the design and conduct regular oversight of production and quality control. After many years of doing exactly that in Ukraine, Flight Design is well equipped to pursue building its CT-series in Kazakhstan, Central Asia.

Enjoy Two Videos — F2 from 2021 —

https://youtu.be/dxpFU7UfsQo?si=tJLK81fvIosgfjOz https://youtu.be/DAs_ocUd77E?si=vbMFgKmbdzm37XmD

As we Floridians prepare to face Hurricane Milton starting later today, I’m pleased to give an update on one of our leading companies in the LSA space. I refer to Flight Design, which gained fame for the enviable success of its CT-series aircraft (CT2K, CTSW, CTLS, CTLSi, CT Super). In the United States, more of these models fly as LSA than aircraft from any other brand. In the USA, importing Flight Design aircraft is now handled by Airtime Aviation, a leader in its own right. For two decades, Airtime has been the nation’s #1 seller of Light-Sport Aircraft, delivering to American pilots a large percentage of those hundreds of CT-series aircraft. Importing was previously handled by Flight Design USA; regional dealers also contributed to enlarging the CT fleet in this country. The German designer has enjoyed good success in numerous countries. In addition to those many sales, Flight Design has long been a leader among western producers moving into Eastern Europe to take advantage of skilled technical workers and engineers.

Rebirth — LSA Market Leader Overcomes the Tragedy of War

By Dan Johnson || December 8, 2022 6 Comments

In the middle of the last decade, long before Putin's aggression, LSA market leader Flight Design went through a German-imposed reorganization. While difficult, the company emerged stronger and more stable. In development through this challenging time, Flight Design unveiled their new F-series, starting with their two-seat LSA F2 model at Aero Friedrichshafen 2019. They also displayed an F2e powered by electric motor. Those who examined these displays could readily see the spacious fuselage was built with a four seater in mind for the future. Things were progressing well…

Then, WAR!

Some experts believe ample signs existed that Russia might invade Ukraine yet to ordinary individuals busy living their own lives, hostilities seemed to erupt suddenly. In a brief time, the southern Ukraine city of Kherson was overtaken by the Russian military.

New tools are producing airframes in Šumperk, Czech Republic.

Kherson is where Flight Design did the bulk of their CT fabrication and the company was building up their F2 production capability. Orders were flowing and interest in the new series was strong. It came crashing to a stop when tanks entered the town. Staff was aided in leaving the area as possible. Those who had to remain were supported by volunteer donations and help from friends outside the war-torn area. With communications interrupted, power outages, and constant threat of physical violence, this was a time of enormous stress for everyone but it was especially frightening for those who were unable to leave.

Despite such hardships, Flight Design's German leaders and team closed ranks and moved production to Šumperk, Czech Republic, near the country's northern border with Poland, about 100 miles east of Prague. “[The company is using] a new, 25,000-square-foot site suitable for use as a production and paint shop,” reported longtime importer, Tom Peghiny in an article from AOPA. The company had been doing some development work in Czech and now expanded their footprint to take up manufacturing. This represented a huge effort under the most trying — and dangerous — of conditions. The accompanying images show elements of the work to establish a new production facility. Since most molds and other tooling could not be removed from Kherson to Šumperk — about 1,000 miles to the west — the company had to acquire new production jigs and they had to do this while supply lines were pinched, shipping costs were sky-high, and interest rates were rising on funds needed to create a new manufacturing plant.

Airplane parts and tools built from carbon fiber involve very large fixtures.

Moving and housing staff that could escape Kherson added challenges both logistical and in human costs as workers were dislocated, perhaps separated from family. Everyone remains deeply concerned about those unable to leave. Surmounting the challenges, Flight Design's business will go forward building F2s with fresh tooling, knowing their workers are in a safer environment.

F2 In Production

"F2 is the newest aircraft from Flight Design general aviation," reported the company (whose full name includes "general aviation" but spelled without capitals). "We think [F2] will define light aircraft safety, performance, and comfort in a CS-23 certified aircraft, as an S-LSA, and also as a 600 kilogram Ultralight."

Trained personnel were able to escape Kershon during occupation to build airplanes in a factory far from home.

In so describing the F-series approval methods, Flight Design shows they have the engineering expertise to make a conventionally-certified model (that could employ reciprocity to become a competitor to Cessna and Cirrus in the USA and other countries) plus an ASTM-compliant LSA model and one that specifically fits the European model of an "Ultralight" that is closer to an LSA than an American Part 103 ultralight. "Our mission has been to design the F2 for the demands of professional flight schools and flying clubs as well as private owners who want an easy to fly aircraft with efficiency and cruise performance for true cross-country adventures," said Flight Design. They listed basic model prices: UL and ASTM-LSA: €177,900 — CS23 Day/Night-VFR version: €214,900 (These prices at exchange rates in early December 2022 translate to $169,000 and $204,000 although neither number includes shipping, insurance, and other expenses to transport the aircraft to the USA or other distant countries. Exchange rate fluctuations may also alter these values in the future.)

High-quality production involves paper documentation called "travelers" (because they follow components through assembly), meant to help track every element used in every airplane. Now, keep all this straight while moving your facilities 1,000 miles while literally under the gun.

"The structure of the F2 is manufactured to close tolerances using pre-impregnated carbon fiber for great structural strength and Light-Sport Aircraft weight," said Flight Design. High aspect ratio wings give improved performance at all speeds and have modern sculpted winglets. Engineers followed ASTM 3180 requirements to specially shape the outer wing (see cuff in this review of F2) and refine the control system for stall and spin resistance. "The spacious cabin of the F2 has been designed for extra rigidity and incorporates a combination of dynamically tested passenger seats, panel-mounted AMSAFE™ airbags, and an Airframe Emergency Parachute System (AEPS) for your safety," said Flight Design. F2 allows up to 88 pounds of baggage to be safely stored in the aft cabin, assuming weight and balance allow, of course. The cubic volume available can handle luggage, folding bikes, or pets.

New tooling and jigs had to be ordered, built, and installed.

F2's combination of wider and taller doors with lower-entry sills and no wing struts makes entry among best in class. Four large cabin windows give the cockpit an open feeling and improve overall visibility. Flight Design's F-series features avionics from Garmin focused around the G3X Touch system that offers synthetic vision, ADS-B weather, traffic, engine monitoring, and maps. Flight Design has designed the F2 seeking to improve performance, safety, situational awareness, and reduced pilot workload. This generation of Flight Design models has come a long way since the early CT-series. Fortunately, the latter with significantly lower prices (see this article about the upgraded CT Super Sport) will also continue in production …regardless of which nation houses production.

ARTICLE LINKS:

Airtime Aviation, U.S. importer of Flight Design
Flight Design general aviation, factory website
Review of F2 with image showing wing cuff treatment
Early review of F2, revealed to Americans as Covid was causing airshows cancellations

Taking over from longtime U.S. importer Tom Peghiny is the father and son team of Tom Gutman Sr. and Jr. In recent years, Tom Jr. has taken a leadership role. Their company, Airtime Aviation, is the largest seller of LSA in the world. They are centrally based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Evidence of their long time in the business — their super-simple easily-remembered website address: FlyCT.com (vintage image from 2007 with the Gutman's fleet of CT Light-Sport Aircraft)

Web stats showed a strong response to my article about Ukraine-based light aircraft builders continuing on even as the missiles fly and the bombs fall around them. The situation is terrifying and the future uncertain but the stories we don’t hear sometimes involve courageous people in the recreational aircraft industry. In the middle of the last decade, long before Putin’s aggression, LSA market leader Flight Design went through a German-imposed reorganization. While difficult, the company emerged stronger and more stable. In development through this challenging time, Flight Design unveiled their new F-series, starting with their two-seat LSA F2 model at Aero Friedrichshafen 2019. They also displayed an F2e powered by electric motor. Those who examined these displays could readily see the spacious fuselage was built with a four seater in mind for the future. Things were progressing well… Then, WAR! Some experts believe ample signs existed that Russia might invade Ukraine yet to ordinary individuals busy living their own lives, hostilities seemed to erupt suddenly.

Cross Country Delivery of AeroJones CTLS Light-Sport Aircraft Represents a “First” in China

By Dan Johnson || November 13, 2022 10 Comments

Yes, those of us in countries where private aviation is well-established take for granted the privilege of flying cross country. In fact, it’s one of the great joys we love to experience. It's a fantastic way to see the country. That’s simply doesn't happen in China. …Or, it didn't. Things are changing and one company has forged ahead despite the challenges. This story involves a Taiwanese-origin, China-based company called AeroJones and involves the delivery of one of their CTLS aircraft to a customer. In the USA, this would never be news. In China, it most definitely is!

AeroJones' Great Aerial Trek

After purchasing the rights, AeroJones builds the Flight Design CTLS for the Asia-Pacific market. Americans have seen AeroJones as it filled in when Flight Design in Germany went through a government-imposed restructuring in 2015.

Pilots Wu Zhuo and Hu Shaokang flew the CTLS on its 1,500 kilometer record-setting ferry flight.

For several years, all the company's deliveries inside China have been done by ground vehicle, reassembling the packed aircraft and test flying at the site of the customer. China rules are tight enough that cross country is really not possible except for business aircraft and military. Can you imagine Cirrus delivering their new aircraft to customers by truck? No, neither can I, yet that's what AeroJones has had to do for years. So, it's a big deal to get permission to deliver an aircraft by air. Here's the company's story. Errors in computer translation are likely but I've attempted to help an interesting story come to life.

Zhenjiang to Chongqing The Story Behind the "Record"

Part 1 — Determination of delivery plan The travel from Zhenjiang to Chongqing involves 1,500-kilometers (932 statute miles, a flight roughly matching Chicago to Denver in both distance and terrain). In the past, such long-distance deliveries were carried out by land transportation, and after arriving at the destination, it was necessary to reassemble and test fly each aircraft and afterward process relevant official documents. This took a long time and was inefficient.

The first part of the ferry flight encountered headwinds but fewer terrain challenges.

"Do you want us to try to prepare the machine for flight to Chongqing this time," the pilot team asked?" They have the skills and can plan the flight. It will make delivery so much easier (than by truck shipment). "The flight distance is much shorter (than driving) and the performance of the CTLS aircraft is capable of this flight. We can do it!” Weixiang Aviation never flew one of their aircraft to Chongqing. "Such a long distance and flight duration have never been seen in the history of Weixiang," noted the comany. Which route should they fly? Which airport should we use for a fuel stop? How can we get the right fuel? How do we coordinate parking overnight at an unfamiliar transit airport? These tasks, commonplace for American pilots, were each new challenges to be overcome. Airport providers of those services have no experience with small aircraft like CTLS so it was a learning experience on both sides.

Clouds encroached on the flight path at times but controllers worked with the pilots… even though those controllers had no experience with light aircraft like CTLS.

2. A time challenge also emerged. "We need to deliver this aircraft to the customer by October 1st," the team realized. How can we best meet the customer's needs? Can we customize a plan? We must pick routes and start immediately. Plus we must prepare Plan B: land delivery. Although we don't want to repeat this method, we must be prepared. Time was tight and the task was heavy. "The biggest difficulty in this adjustment is the long distance, which needs to be carried out in stages," said Li Can, head of aviation affairs at Weixiang Aviation. "The terrain in the second half is complicated," he added, referring to a high mountain range. In addition, the CTLS prefers No. 95 gasoline (premium auto fuel). Since this is different from the fuel used by general aircraft, the problem of refueling must also be taken into account. Wuhan Hainan General Airport offered better choices and was located at about the halfway point. of the flight. Americans will recognize the name Wuhan, made infamous in connection with Covid.

Headwinds dropped at the flight progressed but then higher, less hospitable terrain arrived.

3. The range of choices got smaller Unfortunately, the team had to plan for possible suspension of activities at Wuhan Hannan airport, so all the planning had to be restarted. The choices are more limited without Wuhan considering weather and terrain and the needs of aircraft performance, supporting airport facilities, air traffic control permission, and other factors. 4. "Fortunately, the plan passed successfully When applying for a flight plan coincided with the eve of a holiday, and fearing that uncontrollable factors would affect the flight plan, the team continued to proceed simultaneously with the application for flight plan and prepare alternative plans for land transportation in case new flight plans were not approved (permission must be obtained more than 48 hours before the flight in China, further challenging the planning). "Fortunately, our application for original and alternate flight plans were successfully approved, and the flight could begin." Part 2 — "The test of the aircraft is much higher than the test of the pilot" 1. The longest distance and the highest flight altitude Pilots Wu Zhuo and Hu Shaokang have considerable experience flying CTLS. "This is the longest flight I have flown in CTLS: 1500 kilometers, 12 hours, and altitude of 2,700 meters (about 9,000 feet; well above altitudes commonly assigned to non-business aircraft). These are regarded as a new record for China light aviation.

The last half of the flight had to pass over some mountainous terrain with few landing possibilities.

2. En route challenges "The firsts half the long flight encountered strong headwinds of up to 28 knots. This lowered ground speed and burned more fuel so the pilots considered a diversion to Xiantao Airport. Fortunately, higher altitude winds reduced so fuel was sufficient, and they were able to reach their original destination safely. After landing, they checked to find only backup fuel remaining. "We were quite lucky the winds reduced." 3, How smooth the first half; how thrilling the second half Jingmen to Chongqing, the first half, had very smooth conditions. However, after crossing Zhangjiajie, clouds increased. We were then flying at about 2,400 meters (7,800 feet). Clouds threatened our forward visibility and because our aircraft is operated under visual flight references (VFR), we had to proceed carefully. As the destination neared Chongqing, terrain became mountainous (nearby images) and that terrain offered fewer landing spots. "At our minimum safe altitude, mountain winds produced moderate to rough turbulence during the flight. "We had to ask our air traffic controller for a high altitude, up to 2,700 meters." 4. Questions encountered along the way "We passed through a lot of control areas and often changed air traffic control. The local controller often asked what type of aircraft we were flying. Is it a helicopter? Does it have any instrumentation and so on? Controllers have relatively little experience in flight support for Light-Sport Aircraft flying such long cross country flights."

The pilots were pleased with AeroJones CTLS performance and capabilities for cross country flying in a variety of conditions and over varying terrain.

5. Test of the aircraft versus test of the pilot "A first flight like this is a test of both people and planes." Just like the degree of turbulence encountered in this flight, the test of the aircraft is actually greater than the test of the pilot. Most of the difficulties can be overcome by an experienced pilot, but the performance of the aircraft is relatively fixed. Only a reliable aircraft can withstand such a test. Given the flight length, interior space and comfort are important as is avionics equipment. "This flight brought a new understanding of our aircraft and we confirmed Light-Sport Aircraft performance is excellent.” Part 3 — "Interesting Episodes" 1. "Can I go to Chongqing with the plane?" After arriving at the transit airport, Wuhan Zhanghe Airport, an airport staff member learned that the destination of the ferry flight was Chongqing, and he asked to join the flight, probably thinking we had extra seats. 2. "We flew the plane ourselves, there is no flight number" After arriving at the hotel in Chongqing, the hotel routinely asked the pilot about the transportation method to Chongqing. "We came by plane. We don't have a (airline) flight number. We flew our own plane and can give you our tail number." The hotel staff, not really understanding what type aircraft we had flown, reluctantly registered the number of the CTLS. Behind the creation of such a China record is the efforts of a group of people. The ferry team thanks the major military and civil aviation control units that provided support for this flight transfer, those who helped us explain such a ferry flight, and the whole team who deserves recognition in making this first-of-a-kind flight take place. The story of CTLS is still being written, and more records are waiting to be created.

This short video, although using a language few viewers may understand, offers glimpses of flying over China. From a Light-Sport Aircraft, these are very rare scenes. Aircraft other than military and airline simply don't get permission for cross country flights… but things are changing. Enjoy the views, compliments of AeroJones. https://youtu.be/EzAFrDB_dHQ

American and European pilots can plan a trip across the continent with surprising ease and with great support from air traffic controllers, airport operators, and businesses that serve aviation. No one stops you to ask what you’re doing. You probably question why I even bother to write this because it’s so well understood. Yes, those of us in countries where private aviation is well-established take for granted the privilege of flying cross country. In fact, it’s one of the great joys we love to experience. It’s a fantastic way to see the country. That’s simply doesn’t happen in China. …Or, it didn’t. Things are changing and one company has forged ahead despite the challenges. This story involves a Taiwanese-origin, China-based company called AeroJones and involves the delivery of one of their CTLS aircraft to a customer. In the USA, this would never be news. In China, it most definitely is! AeroJones’ Great Aerial Trek After purchasing the rights, AeroJones builds the Flight Design CTLS for the Asia-Pacific market.

Aeroprakt and Aeros Continue Manufacturing Despite Senseless Destruction in Ukraine

By Dan Johnson || November 7, 2022 6 Comments

Aircraft like the Aeros ANT and many more are listed in the Part 103 List with many links to more information.

I am flooded with admiration for those airplane producers in Ukraine who have courageously continued even as bombs fall and missiles fly. I have visited three Ukraine producers (some years ago) and I can only try to imagine what they are experiencing today. In this article I want to shine a light on courageous efforts by regular Ukraine citizens to continue making aircraft that bring satisfaction to pilots in America and many other countries.

Aero Hang Gliders and Nanotrikes

As you'll hear in the first video below, I was told a compelling story about workers in Kyiv-based Aeros going to their factory pre-dawn, entering quietly, working with reduced lighting to be less conspicuous, and locking themselves in for the workday. Whatever the present-day facts, I cannot imagine many Americans being willing to go to work under such circumstances.

Still the Aeros team continues to build and deliver their flying machines, ranging from hang gliders to trikes to the Sky Ranger three-axis airplanes (long flight review from 2007). The Ukraine company has been building these for at least 20 years; I last visited in 2003. Aeros reported on their website, "In the last few years [we have seen] growing interest in lightweight trikes." The company employed the term "nanolight" because this tiny trike is extremely light compared with more conventional two-seat trikes.

In addition to hang gliders and trikes, Aeros has long built the three-axis Sky Ranger.

"These little ones attract pilots for being as portable as possible," said Aeros. A nanolight trike, they point out, can be folded up to fit in the back of many cars; the entire aircraft can be de-rigged and stored at home with minimum time and effort. ANT, or Aeros Nanolight Trike, is primarily aimed at those of us who like the idea of soaring a hang glider but don't live near mountains to launch from or simply desire a way to get aloft without needing the support of a launch team. "Some pilots choose nanolight trikes just to have an alternative on normally non-soaring days, others - to open up new soaring opportunities," explained Aeros.

ANT main gear look odd in this photo but they are manually folded out of the airflow to reduce drag while soaring.

Fulfilling the Aeros concept of maximum portability, ANT's main landing gear is manually retractable even in flight, to position the main gear out of the wind stream. A very experienced builder of both beginner and competition-grade hang gliders, Aeros has created the Discus T wing specifically for ANT. Discus T comes in two sizes, Discus 14T and Discus 15T, the number roughly relating to the square meter area of the wing. This is their best soaring choice for ANT.

Fox T is another wing for nanolight trikes, created for "those who want to feel the simplicity and real pleasure of bird-like flying," said Aeros. Fox T offers low and slow maneuverable flying. "Fox T has been developed from our beginner Fox glider and has been reinforced and adapted exclusively for flying with nanolight trikes," Aeros clarified. For experienced pilots wanting maximum performance, Aeros offers their Combat T, "a step higher in nanolight technology, designed for those who want to fly faster and farther." Besides the Polini or Vittorazi two-stroke engines adapted from the powered paraglider industry, Aeros offers a Bailey V5 four-stroke engine (article) to minimize maintenance costs and provide greater engine reliability. As an example, an ANT trike with a Discus T wing and a Bailey V5 at cruising speed consumes as little as two-thirds of one gallon of fuel per hour, offering incredible fun at minimal cost. "You can power fly ANT for more than three hours," probably using less less fuel than on your drive to the airport or airfield. I hope Aeros will be able to keep producing its flying machines throughout this time of war. It puts smiles on the faces of their customers while keeping their workers employed.

Aeroprakt Popular & Colorful

One of the most successful LSA in the U.S. market is also manufactured in central Ukraine.

When I visited this company many years ago, they were new in western markets. Fortunately for them, a wealthy Saudi Arab businessman and flying enthusiast helped bankroll the new company. On my visit, I saw an active operation with workers buzzing to build aircraft. However, they did so in a converted factory that was far from optimal. They made it work but they had ambitions for another facility.

The original A-22 model with its extensive acrylic viewpoints. That model has now been joined by the newer, smoother A-32.

I flew with principal designer, Yuri Yakovlev in an A-22 (image nearby) to a location where he planned to expand and improve their facility. The second video below shows the nice building that followed along with destruction it suffered from Russian artillery. Like Aeros, Dennis Long indicated Aeroprakt is continuing operations despite the scary conditions in their home country. Dennis handed off Aeroprakt importation to Andy Humphrey of Heavenbound Aviation. The company is active at all major airshows.

Flight Design CT and F-series

The most famous builder of LSA in Ukraine is the Germany company, Flight Design. Many years ago, company leader Matheus Betsch established a factory in Kherson (pronounced "HAIR-son"). Unless you've completed avoided the news you should recognize this name as one of the few areas Russia occupies in Ukraine.

Flight Design's new F2 about to land at the Midwest LSA Expo.

I visited this city in the south of Ukraine some years ago. In addition, many LSA pilots will recognize the name Tom Peghiny, the longtime importer of the CT series. Tom married his wife in Kherson and her family remains in this area. This has been an exceedingly difficult experience for them. While the leaders of countries have their aggressive ambitions, it is the ordinary citizens of those nations that have to bear the consequences.

A beautifully restored CTSW achieved by North American importer, Airtime Aviation.

Flight Design's Ukraine, German, and Czech teammates worked to shift production of CTs and the new F-series from Kherson to Šumperk in the Czech Republic. The market leader has already resumed shipments, a admirable accomplishment under the most trying and dangerous of circumstances. This post has no political message beyond hoping for peace but I felt it was worthwhile to show how bravely those people continue working to build the aircraft many American pilots enjoy. Here's wishing for better times for everyone in Ukraine's light aviation community.

ARTICLE LINKS:

Aeros manufacturer's website
Worldwide distributors for Aeros
Aeroprakt in the USA is represented by Heavenbound Aviation (website)
Flight Design in the USA, represented by Airtime Aviation
Article on Ukraine producers from March 2022 when Russia invaded, on this website
Article on my long-ago visit to Aeroprakt in Ukraine

Here's a brief look at the Aero ANT (Aeros Nanolight Trike) as seen as Oshkosh 2022. https://youtu.be/VYMozCLuxgQ "Following is a YouTube video from Plane Ukraine depicting the Russian destruction of Aeroprakt headquarters. The story of this destruction of one of the world's most innovative LSA companies needs an audience." —Forwarded by John Inglis Most of you won't understand the language in this video but words are not necessary to show how a beautiful facility created by Aeroprakt has been badly damaged by artillery strikes. What a shame… https://youtu.be/ZNih5CS1cmc

The following story is one that moved me and might affect you similarly. I consider all recreational aviators anywhere in the world as fellow flying enthusiasts. Maybe you do, too? Whatever we fly, pilots share a love of aviation, regardless of what language we speak or what currency we spend. I am flooded with admiration for those airplane producers in Ukraine who have courageously continued even as bombs fall and missiles fly. I have visited three Ukraine producers (some years ago) and I can only try to imagine what they are experiencing today. In this article I want to shine a light on courageous efforts by regular Ukraine citizens to continue making aircraft that bring satisfaction to pilots in America and many other countries. Aero Hang Gliders and Nanotrikes As you’ll hear in the first video below, I was told a compelling story about workers in Kyiv-based Aeros going to their factory pre-dawn, entering quietly, working with reduced lighting to be less conspicuous, and locking themselves in for the workday.

What Do Russia and China Have to Do with Light-Sport Aircraft? Plenty!

By Dan Johnson || March 6, 2022 7 Comments

Both airplane producer stories made it into mainstream media. If we go way back in time, to 2003, that is, before Light-Sport Aircraft, we saw a world where Americans flew kit-built airplanes while European pilots were flying what they called ultralights or microlights. Of course, this is an oversimplification but we had no idea the two methods of production would converge as they have in the last two decades. Using widely-accepted consensus standards, Light-Sport Aircraft can operate in multiple countries — thanks to the useful work of many volunteers that assembled and maintain ASTM standards embraced by FAA and other CAAs all over the planet. Let's look at these two stories…

Icon Will Continue Production

Recreational airplanes at the Icon Aircraft manufacturing facility in Tijuana, Mexico. • photo by Alejandro Cegarra / Bloomberg News

It's very rare for an aircraft in the space I always report to appear in the Wall Street Journal that I read for mainstream news. However, one of the paper's articles discussed a case brought before CFIUS, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S., by a group led by original Icon founder, Kirk Hawkins. "Feuding investors … are firing off allegations against each other," started one of two lengthy articles by Kate O'Keeffe. "A group of American shareholders fell out with Chinese investors who hold a dominant stake in Icon, alleging they are improperly transferring the company’s technology to China." After Icon raised money from various investors, Chinese funds became the dominant source of cash for the California developer of the A5 LSA seaplane. Find the original article here (but only WSJ paid subscribers can read the full article).

Icon Aircraft’s manufacturing facility in Tijuana, Mexico, last year. • Photo by Alejandro Cegarra / Bloomber NEWSimage used in Wall Street Journal article

In filing a lawsuit appealing to Cfius, which reviews deals on national-security grounds, dissenting shareholders told the panel that Icon’s technology has possible military applications. O'Keffee wrote that Hawkins and the others cited "a previously confidential Pentagon program looking at turning Icon’s planes into unmanned aerial vehicles." Icon’s Chinese backer is Shanghai Pudong Science and Technology Investment Co., a government-backed firm known as PDSTI. Kirk remains on Icon’s board even after PDSTI ousted him as chief executive. Icon's current leadership answered saying, "A5 is suitable for spending a fun afternoon on a lake, not for military missions."

Icon Aircraft co-founder Kirk Hawkins at the company’s offices in Los Angeles in 2013. Photo from Wall Street Journal • By Ann Johansson/Corbis/Getty Images

"PDSTI’s investment in Icon started out small in 2015," O'Keeffe reported "but by 2017, it had amassed its current nearly 47% stake, according to filings to Cfius and in the separate Delaware lawsuit by the American shareholder group." According to O'Keeffe's article, the minority shareholders were seeking as much as a $60 million buy-out of their interest by PDSTI, though this is not from official court documents. “No unresolved national security concerns,” were found by Cfius noted O'Keeffe as she reported the latest news on March 1, 2022. The panel added that action with respect to the deal “is concluded.” Lawsuits and government regulatory decisions are serious matters but they pale in comparison to bomb threats…

Flight Design and its Ukraine Factory

I hardly need to say more than Flight Design does its primary fabrication in a town called Kherson in the south of Ukraine. Until very recently, you may not of been able to find that on a map, but recent events have changed perspectives significantly. It's also changed how business is done for Flight Design.

Visitors at Aero Freidrichshafen 2019 check out the new F2 at Flight Design's display.

To inform the situation, Flight Design USA importer, Tom Peghiny made the rounds with large aviation outlets via a video appearance on AOPA TV and though an interview reported online by the newly-reformulated Flying magazine. AOPA — Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association journalists Dave Hirschman and Tom Horne wrote about difficulties for Flight Design after Russia began their attack. "The Flight Design factory is located in Kherson, a city of 300,000 people in the southeastern portion of Ukraine, where Russian troops took control after overcoming days of resistance in a spirited defense by Ukrainian defenders," wrote AOPA. "Russian tanks patrolled the streets on March 2, Reuters reported, though Kherson remained the only city under Russian control."

“At this point, there are about 10 to 12 airframes at the Kherson plant,” Peghiny said to AOPA. "Ordinarily, the airframes would be sent to Flight Design’s final assembly and completion center in the city of Šumperk in the Czech Republic." “We’ve found a new, 25,000-square-foot site [in Šumperk that is] suitable for use as a production and paint shop, and will use that in the future,” Peghiny said in the AOPA article. Engineering work is also conducted in Šumperk. "Flight Design is offering to move its Ukraine staff and their families to the Šumperk facility," AOPA wrote. "Peghiny said that the Kherson plant will function as long as conditions allow. However, tooling currently remaining in Kherson will have to be replaced by newly manufactured tooling for use in Šumperk. The company will fund new tooling, but it may take six to nine months to build."

Flight Design USA's Tom Peghiny appearing on AOPA TV.

AOPA TV had Tom on to talk about Ukraine. Follow this link and see timecode 4:08–7:04 for the whole interview. As Tom notes in his remarks, this is personal not only for Flight Design employees suffering through this military action. Officially, they are behind Russian lines and are OK but what lies ahead is uncertain. Flying magazine — "A week into the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Flight Design USA’s president Tom Peghiny reports that — with the Russian forces occupying Kherson three days ago — work has ceased as the company looks to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its workforce," wrote Julie Boatman for Flying magazine (full original article).

"Flight Design employs just under 200 technicians, assemblers, and engineers currently at the Kherson plant," continued Boatman, "and according to Peghiny, the company has been ramping up that number. 'We were hiring more aggressively in the past year because of the popularity of the F2, but the other models in the range have been selling well in Europe — simpler, lighter models in particular,' Tom said." Of course, Tom refers to the CT-series including CTLS that is one of the most popular LSA in America. “We know [our employees] very well,” Peghiny said in Boatman's article. “Some have been with the company more than 20 years. We’re good friends, and we take this very personally.”

Aeroprakt Also Affected

AOPA also contacted Dennis Long, importer for the well-selling A22 and A32 LSA made in Kyiv, Ukraine that is presently under attack.

Dave Hirschman wrote, "Dennis Long, a dealer for Aeroprakt… said he spoke with factory officials who said they plan to remain on the job. 'They told me they’re going to keep making airplanes until they can’t'," AOPA reported. 'For the time being, it’s business as usual, although my next two airplanes will likely have to be shipped from Poland because the port of Odessa [in Ukraine] is closed.'” Aeroprakt has steady registered more aircraft with the FAA. When asked by AOPA's writer, Dennis said, "Right now, due to all the uncertainty, I’m not taking any new deposits. I’m more concerned about the people over there than the airplanes at this moment." My View — I have personally visited Aeroprakt in Kyiv and Flight Design in Kherson, Ukraine. While the battle rages on between political and military leaders in Russia and the Ukraine, the regular citizens building the airplanes many Americans enjoy are under immense duress. I hope you'll join me in wishing for the safety of these airplane builders. The sooner hostilities end, the better.

Two wildly divergent events occurred in the last few days. They are completely unrelated yet they show the global interplay in modern light aviation. One story involves relative newcomer Icon Aircraft and their A5 LSA seaplane. The other revolves around the producer of the most successful LSA in America, Flight Design. Both airplane producer stories made it into mainstream media. If we go way back in time, to 2003, that is, before Light-Sport Aircraft, we saw a world where Americans flew kit-built airplanes while European pilots were flying what they called ultralights or microlights. Of course, this is an oversimplification but we had no idea the two methods of production would converge as they have in the last two decades. Using widely-accepted consensus standards, Light-Sport Aircraft can operate in multiple countries — thanks to the useful work of many volunteers that assembled and maintain ASTM standards embraced by FAA and other CAAs all over the planet.

Seeking a Higher Altitude — Flight Design’s F2 and Icon’s A5 Go for Certification

By Dan Johnson || December 21, 2021 2 Comments

Rather loudly and persistently I beat the drum about "affordable aircraft," but readers also enjoy learning about other aircraft. I will never write about jets or multimillion-dollar turbines but I will continue to follow any "light" aircraft that meets LSA parameters now or after the Mosaic rule. In this article I will describe how two aircraft are pursuing conventional certification: Flight Design’s F2-CS23 and Icon’s A5.

Contrary to common language, LSA are not "certified." Instead a manufacturer declares they meet ASTM standards and FAA "accepts" that declaration. Frequently at first, FAA audited producers in a point-by-point check of their declaration plus verifying that producers use generally-accepted best practices in their manufacturing. Companies with prior approvals may not be required to undergo an audit; it's always FAA's choice. I've been involved with ASTM for many years and I can attest to these standards being very rigorous. They were welcomed by many countries where they are in active use. Indeed, FAA is using ASTM standards for LSA as a model for a future approval system for Part 23 general aviation aircraft. Nonetheless, a Standard Certificate is required for some countries; LSA have a Special Certificate. So, some companies believe it is in their best interest to obtain the higher level of approval.

Flight Design F2

In early December 2021, Flight Design in Germany announced F2 is now an EASA CS-23 certified aircraft. CS23 is a full-certification system modeled on FAA's Part 23 approval process. Achieving this is a high bar to hurdle.

“We couldn’t be happier to see this important step for the F2 program, which ultimately will lead to the F4 four-seat version and the all-electric F2e,” said Matthias Betsch, Head of Flight Design's Design Organization department that created the F-Series and many of its advanced concepts. "The F2-CS23 is the next step in Flight Design’s ‘Vision Zero’ concept which incorporates all commercially available safety features appropriate for this type of aircraft," the company elaborated. "These features include: a passive stall and spin resistant airframe design; airframe emergency parachute system; Amsafe-brand airbags and inertial reel harnesses; Garmin ESP (electronic stability and envelope protection); a strong occupant-protective enclosure for the pilot and passengers; automatic fuel management; simplified controls such as a combined throttle and brake lever; and a more modern, car-like atmosphere and operation."

Flight Design F2 images by Jan Fridrich

The company CEO, Daniel Guenther, said "This is an important milestone for our business and a tribute to the hard work by the F2 design team and our different businesses within Flight Design general aviation.” F2 is imported to America by Flight Design USA, and is represented by Airtime Aviation, the leading seller of LSA in the country. The F2-CS23 comes with an long list of standard features such as an all-Garmin G3X avionics suite; two-axis autopilot; Rotax 912iS fuel-injected 100 horsepower engine with a DUC certified propeller; Beringer wheels and brakes, perforated leather seats, heat exchanger heating system; and Whelen lighting.

“EASA's CS-23 category is an internationally-recognized certification standard which will allow the new F2-CS23 to be easily accepted in all markets worldwide,” said Dieter Koehler, Project Manager the F2 and F4 projects. Flight Design sees the F2-CS23 as "an excellent choice for flight schools with its wide and easy-to-enter cockpit, fuel efficiency, unique safety features, and state-of-the-art avionics suite. All new Flight Design aircraft come with carbon compensation up to TBO under Flight Design’s Pro-Climate plan." F2-CS23 follows the company's F2-LSA that began deliveries earlier in 2021.

Icon Aircraft A5

California-based Icon Aircraft wants to expand their international sales and to facilitate that, the company chose to pursue Primary Category approval by FAA. Icon has already achieved SLSA approval; number 137 on our SLSA List.

"In countries that do not have a Light-Sport category (Canada and others), the Type Certified version of the A5 can be imported and registered as a Primary Category aircraft," the company explained. They are searching for partners outside the U.S. that want to be Icon Aircraft dealers. Icon's Primary Category certification is well along the lengthy process. "All of our paperwork has been submitted to the FAA for review and the only remaining item on our to-do list is noise testing to ensure we are within compliance. We don’t expect this to be an issue and are planning to complete it in January." "Once that is done," the company continued, "it’s fully over to the FAA to finish reviewing our paperwork. The estimate we’ve received from the FAA and our certification team is that the project should be completed and our type certificate in hand by March or early April, 2022."

Primary Category certification also has benefits in the U.S., Icon reported. One is that any A&P is authorized to work on it. Because it is not a SLSA, owners will not need to use designated Icon Service Partners, though the company will still encourage them to do so. Another benefit is international travel, for example, flying your Icon A5 to islands in the Caribbean, or to keep your A5 on a yacht when you are in another country (image). "Light-Sport Aircraft do not receive a Type Certificate," Icon explained, "so typically, special permission is required before you can fly in another country just like if you are flying an Experimental aircraft." Some exceptions exist, notably in the Bahamas, which does allow U.S.-registered LSAs. The Bahamas is further unique among other countries in that they accept FAA's Sport Pilot certificate.

"International expansion has been a critical part of our business plan since day one,” said Jason Huang, President of Icon Aircraft. “People in the U.S. have been able to enjoy adventure flying in the Icon A5 for several years, and we will continue to produce the SLSA version. But now we are excited to introduce the A5 to others around the world. Type Certification is one of the many investments Icon has made to grow our capabilities and improve the A5. We know it will be appreciated by our international deposit holders and sales partners, and we are all very excited for this day to come."

"Note that we will continue to make the SLSA version, as well," assured Huang. This continues the chance for American pilots to fly A5 without the need for an aviation medical, using only their driver's license in lieu of a medical approval. Why not pursue approval using the coming regulation often referred to as Mosaic? "Mosaic is an FAA initiative that doesn’t translate globally," stated the company. "Thus, pursuing Primary Category Certification is the action we needed to coincide with our global expansion plans."

https://youtu.be/dxpFU7UfsQo https://youtu.be/4kBRY79lw5Y

https://youtu.be/ONzOx6tEay4

Rather loudly and persistently I beat the drum about “affordable aircraft,” but readers also enjoy learning about other aircraft. I will never write about jets or multimillion-dollar turbines but I will continue to follow any “light” aircraft that meets LSA parameters now or after the Mosaic rule. In this article I will describe how two aircraft are pursuing conventional certification: Flight Design’s F2-CS23 and Icon’s A5. Contrary to common language, LSA are not “certified.” Instead a manufacturer declares they meet ASTM standards and FAA “accepts” that declaration. Frequently at first, FAA audited producers in a point-by-point check of their declaration plus verifying that producers use generally-accepted best practices in their manufacturing. Companies with prior approvals may not be required to undergo an audit; it’s always FAA’s choice. I’ve been involved with ASTM for many years and I can attest to these standards being very rigorous. They were welcomed by many countries where they are in active use.

AirVenture Day 3: Whoa! Major Course Change for FAA on MOSAIC; It’s All Great!

By Dan Johnson || July 29, 2021 80 Comments

As you readers must know, I prefer to focus mainly on the airplanes, on light aircraft. It's what interests me and I've learned it's what interests you* as well. I captured more cool aircraft news on Day 3 and I will return to that tomorrow. Today's topic is different.

Affordable aircraft are important to many readers. I get that completely and that's why my Day 1 report focused on six aircraft that are very easy to own. Speedy aircraft are of also great interest. In general I like to say (modifying a view expressed by Apple Founder Steve Jobs) that — "It's all about the airplanes." Other high-traffic features of this website include the SLSA List, PlaneFinder 2.0, and our market statistics. However, one non-aircraft topic always draws lots of readers. When I report major moves by FAA that can have an impact on your ability to fly, you sit up at your smartphone, tablet, or laptop and pay attention. I personally find it absurd that we wait for FAA to make regulatory decisions and then create or modify aircraft to fit their prescriptions. It seems infinitely more logical to me that the market creates aircraft pilots want and only then should FAA pursue regulation as needed to ensure public safety. Yet in today's government-driven world, pilots must remain aware of what the aviation agency will do.

FAA Pivots Hard …making Good Changes (in my humble opinion)

We were happy to have Zoom's technology in 2020 so we could meet with coworkers, bosses, friends, and family online when we not allowed to congregate in person. I observed, though, that use of Zoom tapered off after the novelty became the familiar. No matter how well that tech company did their job, faces on a screen cannot fully replace in-person meetings. It's just not the same.

The magic of airshows and their ability to deliver in-person meetings showed their value yesterday at AirVenture Oshkosh. The following relates the story as best I could piece it together. Be advised this is not the final word on the subject. In fact, it is so fresh that changes are probable. Our friends in EAA's Advocacy department, lead by Sean Elliot and aided by experienced staff held a special Mosaic meeting with FAA. In such a gathering at AirVenture 2021, EAA team members reportedly pushed back on Mosaic regulations, calling it "overly complex." (I was not present at this meeting, so this report is second hand.) In the meeting, key FAA officials were present and in a remarkable development (which I am surely oversimplifying here), FAA agreed and in the space of a single meeting, listen to what occurred.

Steve Dickson (facing camera) was sworn in as FAA administrator on August 12, 2019 after being confirmed for a five-year term by the U.S. Senate on July 24, 2019. Dickson recently retired from service as the senior vice president of Flight Operations for Delta Air Lines.

The whole idea introduced in May of 2020 (see this article) set up Light-Sport Aircraft as a subset of something brand new called Light Personal Aircraft. The former would get bigger and more capable but it was the latter that appeared ready to invite still-larger aircraft, perhaps with four seats, retractable gear, faster speeds, and other abilities. Light Personal Aircraft has apparently been scrubbed — just like that, in a single meeting …but one involving key decision makers including the LSA industry's good friend, Earl Lawrence. An engineer with a strong CV, Earl has risen quickly within FAA and today is the manager of aircraft certification. He has long preferred simpler solutions and reportedly concurred that Mosaic plans for LPA were overly complex. LPA is history, barely a year after it was first invented by rule writers. (Surely, we will hear more definition about this in coming weeks, but the preceding statement looks accurate according to several persons.) Another part of the Mosaic proposals to-date is a formula method referred to as Power Index. Quite a number of you have done the math and tried to determine if one or another airplane can fit.

Flight Design USA boss, Tom Peghiny (gesturing) explains Light-Sport Aircraft to the administrator and other staff as Dickson prepared to try sit in and experience the new F2.

Power Index is also "probably" history, before most of us ever understood precisely how it will work. It, too, was judged unnecessarily complex and many people more qualified in engineering than me would quickly agree. In addition, it seemed a complicated way to accomplish an objective that could be achieved by other means. The proposed 200-horsepower cap is "probably" history as well. According to reports, several FAA people recognized that the amount of horsepower is not a key determinant to FAA sticking to its LSA mantra of "Safe, Simple, and Easy to Fly." My advocacy partner, Roy Beisswenger, who attended several FAA briefings, said, "The key phrases to come out of an FAA meeting was that LSA should be defined as "easy to fly" or "docile to fly" and then let the industry define exactly what that means." He added, "Different weights and categories of aircraft would be allowed as endorsements." Endorsements have already been used with good success for basic Sport Pilots to advance their privileges. The ASTM F37 group that prepares standards for FAA to use in accepting (or not) new LSA aircraft has been furiously working to prepare for all the Mosaic changes so aircraft can demonstrate meeting the standards soon after the rule is final, allowing sales to pilots. As those volunteers do their work and as we hear more, I will report more as quickly as possible. So, Mosaic enters a new state of development but I view all these changes as positive. Keeping regulations simpler will enhance the ability of developers and users/pilots to follow them so they can perform their function efficiently.

An annual safety presentation (among other topics) was given by LSA Program Manager, John Stoll. He gave attendees his background and he is a light aircraft enthusiast himself. He flies and builds the sort of aircraft readers of this website enjoy.

* Modern websites provide information I never dreamed of having in, let's say, the 1990s. WordPress, the open source software that helps me build this website, provides a wealth of data about where visitors are going on the website and which stories generate the most looks and shares. This data resource helps me produce the right stories that earn your attention. However, unlike some social media giants or numerous government agencies, we do not collect any personal data and we don't share any data with anyone …and we never will! To the best of our ability, we deeply respect your privacy and the rights to your own data.

As you readers must know, I prefer to focus mainly on the airplanes, on light aircraft. It’s what interests me and I’ve learned it’s what interests you* as well. I captured more cool aircraft news on Day 3 and I will return to that tomorrow. Today’s topic is different. Affordable aircraft are important to many readers. I get that completely and that’s why my Day 1 report focused on six aircraft that are very easy to own. Speedy aircraft are of also great interest. In general I like to say (modifying a view expressed by Apple Founder Steve Jobs) that — “It’s all about the airplanes.” Other high-traffic features of this website include the SLSA List, PlaneFinder 2.0, and our market statistics. However, one non-aircraft topic always draws lots of readers. When I report major moves by FAA that can have an impact on your ability to fly, you sit up at your smartphone, tablet, or laptop and pay attention.

Newest SLSA in the Fleet: Flight Design’s F2 (also a Precursor to Mosaic?)

By Dan Johnson || July 9, 2021 7 Comments

Taking a welcome break from FAA news, let's check out our favorite topic: cool new airplanes.

Welcome to the New F2

F2 seen on approach to landing after a pilot report at 2020's Midwest LSA Expo.

"Wait," you exclaim! "F2 isn't new." Excellent, you've been keeping up. What you don't know is that Flight Design's latest and greatest just earned FAA acceptance, winning a Special Airworthiness certificate as the latest Special LSA to enter the market. Announcing Number 156 on our SLSA List. Flight Design put years into this thorough evolution of their market-leading model and it has so many new qualities, we present two videos below trying to tell you about all of them.

Now Available as a Ready-to-Fly Special LSA

"On July 8^th, 2021 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the first production Flight Design F2-LSA to reach the USA was inspected by an FAA representative and issued a certificate of airworthiness as a Special Light Sport Aircraft," beamed Flight Design USA leader Tom Peghiny. "The aircraft is owned by a gentleman from the Milwaukee area and will be delivered this month at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2021," he added.

Flight Design has elected an entire Garmin suite of avionics. See the first video below for more on F2's redesigned panel.

“We were very happy to take part in this review. We’ve been waiting for nearly two years”, said Tom Gutmann Jr. of Airtime Aviation, identifying some of the challenges the globe experience over the last year and a half. “We are excited to receive the first F2-LSA in the USA and we are very impressed by the improvements made by Flight Design.” "The Special LSA version of F2 is the new high-end edition of the existing line of Flight Design aircraft, complementing the popular CTLS and CT-Super Sport models also sold in the USA," reported Peghiny. The very popular CTLSi and more affordable SuperSport remain in production and are actively being delivered. “This is an important day for our company, our customers and our dealers,” said Peghiny. "While F Series is a big step up for Flight Design, this just the first of many F-series airplanes that will come to the USA.” He clarified that the Flight Design F-series of aircraft include the F2-LSA; the F2-UL, which is a German Ultralight; the F2 CS-23, a certified version that is currently being reviewed by EASA in Europe; and soon, the F4 which is the four-place version of F-series. An electric model, F2e, is also in development.

F2's throttle handle does double duty: forward to go; backward of a neutral detent for braking. Keep your hand where it belongs.

"The First Article Inspection by the FAA is a review of the documentation provided by a manufacturer to show compliance to the applicable FARs and the ASTM standards used for a particular Light-Sport model," Tom finished. FAA has the option perform a full audit or other inspections such as they first-article inspection. Since the German manufacturer has approved so many models and has a long track record with the FAA (and other government agencies), the American regulator deemed a first-article inspection was satisfactory to accept the new model. (Note that new Special LSA are not technically "certified." FAA prefers to call the process "acceptance.") With Flight Design's F-series family of models, it appears the German designer and producer is taking square aim at the Light Personal Aircraft category FAA has proposed in its new regulation. One piece of evidence: check out the carvernous aft cabin of F2.

Here are two videos further explaining the F-series from Flight Design, focused on the new F2 SLSA: https://youtu.be/dxpFU7UfsQo https://youtu.be/DAs_ocUd77E

Taking a welcome break from FAA news, let’s check out our favorite topic: cool new airplanes. Welcome to the New F2 “Wait,” you exclaim! “F2 isn’t new.” Excellent, you’ve been keeping up. What you don’t know is that Flight Design’s latest and greatest just earned FAA acceptance, winning a Special Airworthiness certificate as the latest Special LSA to enter the market. Announcing Number 156 on our SLSA List. Flight Design put years into this thorough evolution of their market-leading model and it has so many new qualities, we present two videos below trying to tell you about all of them. Now Available as a Ready-to-Fly Special LSA “On July 8th, 2021 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the first production Flight Design F2-LSA to reach the USA was inspected by an FAA representative and issued a certificate of airworthiness as a Special Light Sport Aircraft,” beamed Flight Design USA leader Tom Peghiny.

Flight Design Introduces CTLS GT with Rotax 914 Turbo Power

By Dan Johnson || June 7, 2021 9 Comments

Recently I interacted with a reader, someone considering a light aircraft for purchase. He inquired about the ability of ultralights or Light-Sport Aircraft to cope with high density altitude. He raised valid and worthy points but showed a certain lack of knowledge about the capabilities of light aircraft. (We are working on a more detailed article on this subject.) Here's the simple response: light aircraft with modern (read: powerful and efficient) engines tend to perform admirably well in high elevations, higher heat, and high humidity. If you fly almost any of these aircraft in high density conditions you already know they perform sprightly. In contrast, I logged hundreds of Cessna 150 hours from my days as a flight instructor, and — with a similar amount of power as most LSA but also quite a few more pounds — that aircraft definitely does not perform as energetically. So, a higher power-to-weight ratio is good, but do limits exist?

Welcome to CTLS GT 914T

"Flight Design is pleased to announce the availability of the 914T option for the CTLS GT 2020," the German company announced today. "CTLS GT with the turbocharged Rotax 914 plus a large intercooler greatly improves the climb rate, cruise speed and high-altitude performance on Flight Design’s most popular model." CTLS

has long been the leader in the American LSA fleet. While the company has also announced their F-series, CTLS remains a key model for the company. The CT-series already fits regulations in many countries. “We are very excited to finish development of this new variant of the CTLS GT," said Daniel Guenther, managing director of Flight Design general aviation. "The design team did a beautiful job integrating the Rotax 914 with the turbocharger and intercooler into the new longer cowling of the CTLS GT 2020. From the large NACA inlet (photo) and the custom welded aluminum piping, the engine compartment is just a thing of beauty,” said Daniel. CTLS GT Turbo incorporates all the new features of the GT 2020 model including the longer, more attractive cowling with improved cooling and cabin heating, new prop spinner, and new low drag wheel pants for improved performance. Equipped with a full Garmin avionics suite including dual G3X screens, the CTLS GT is a thoroughly modern aircraft that can reach 140 knots (TAS at altitude) and can climb at better than 2,000 feet per minute.

“I was very impressed with the performance of the CTLS GT with the Rotax 914 Turbo," said Flight Design test pilot Nico Stambula. "CTLS GT Turbo climbs like a rocket and easily reaches 140 knots at altitude." Stambula added that the 914 intercooled engine maintains consistent temperatures. In addition, this is a very smooth flying package." The first CTLS GT will be shipped to an owner in South Africa, which has both high temperatures and high elevations. Flight Design believes the new model "should be just great for operating in those more challenging conditions." With the addition of the Rotax 914T option, the long-running CTLS extends its range again. Various models are available as a European 600 kilogram (European) Ultralight, an ASTM-compliant Special LSA, or as an EASA-certified aircraft. Models are available with the Rotax 912, the 912iS and now as a turbocharged performer as the CTLS GT 914T.

"What? No Rotax 915?"

Someone was bound to ask why engineers didn't use the newest 141-horsepower Rotax 915 iS, so I queried the company on this question. Since the start of Light-Sport Aircraft, Flight Design has been represented in America by Tom Peghiny, proprietor of Flight Design USA. He's everyone's go-to guy for all things CT. "Flight Design chose the Rotax 914 Turbo for the CTLS 2020 GT airframe for several reasons:

“Engine weight and size were perfect for the CTLS airframe with no structural modifications required to the existing airframe.
“Top speed at altitude was also within the existing CTLS limits, so no long test flight program was required to make the 2020 GT turbocharged variant.
“Because the 914 has a similar configuration to the often-installed 912ULS and 912iS, no major firewall-forward changes were needed to fit a 915.”

Tom added that he is gearing up for the company's display at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2021 where he will lead the announcement of other Flight Design products; aircraft will be on exhibit in space 94.

Here's a review of the CTLSi with the 912iS engine. Most of the video regards the airframe that remains the same on the CTLS GT 914T. https://youtu.be/se2Wm6U_MN0

Recently I interacted with a reader, someone considering a light aircraft for purchase. He inquired about the ability of ultralights or Light-Sport Aircraft to cope with high density altitude. He raised valid and worthy points but showed a certain lack of knowledge about the capabilities of light aircraft. (We are working on a more detailed article on this subject.) Here’s the simple response: light aircraft with modern (read: powerful and efficient) engines tend to perform admirably well in high elevations, higher heat, and high humidity. If you fly almost any of these aircraft in high density conditions you already know they perform sprightly. In contrast, I logged hundreds of Cessna 150 hours from my days as a flight instructor, and — with a similar amount of power as most LSA but also quite a few more pounds — that aircraft definitely does not perform as energetically. So, a higher power-to-weight ratio is good, but do limits exist?

Sun ‘n Fun 2021 / Day 0 — Putting On the Shine, Ready for Pilots of All Interests

By Dan Johnson || April 13, 2021 9 Comments

Pilots heading to Sun 'n Fun 2021 had no real idea what to expect. As evening approached on Sunday set-up day, a big black storm cloud rolled over Sun 'n Fun's Lakeland Airport campus, blowing guard shacks and plastic bathrooms around like pieces of paper. An omen? Hardly! The next morning…

I had previously seen Tarragon at the Aero show in Germany but I've not seen one at Sun 'n Fun before. On green grass and against a brilliant blue sky, this striking aircraft struck quite a pose. With retractable gear (and before the possibly accommodating new LSA regulation is final) you'll have to build this one as a kit but isn't she a beauty? Powered by Rotax 9-series engines, Tarragon is reportedly capable of more than 180 miles an hour.

The good news is I saw no damage other than a couple cracked-up guard shacks. No airplane damage was obvious to me. The great news is final setup day was gloriously sunny and exhibit airplanes arrived steadily. By nightfall on Monday as exhibitors finished their preparations, Sun 'n Fun was looking good and ready for pilots to descend on the Showgrounds.

How to turn problems into a thing of beauty: Mix two parts Airtime Aviation (father and son Tom Gutmann) with two unfortunate CT aircraft and you get one sweet looking CTsw, the sprightly model that preceded the CTLS. This one, in striking orange with accents shows what truly talented people can do with other people's mishaps. Two airplanes become one, explaining the "Experimental" label on the door.

Several hands pitched in — thanks loudly to a great group from DeLand Showcase — to turn the LAMA LSA Mall into the regular attraction its become over the last 15 years. A fewer number of airplanes will be shown in the LSA Mall but at least one is a machine you've never seen before and others are head turners. Nightly music will be featured. Chairs in the shade are available to witness the nightly STOL competition and evening showcase flying.

Another exhibit I simply could not pass by was Progressive Aerodyne's exhibit on the main Sun 'n Fun display road. With two stunning-red Searays for people to examine, these handsome amphibious seaplanes are sure to draw admiring looks and probably orders. The central Florida company enjoyed a solid 2020 year with both kit-built and fully-built LSA models.

Show-wide, exhibits are reportedly down about 20%, which I consider an excellent recovery from one of the most trying periods of any of our lives. Many people on-site already were telling stories about friends who are too worried about Covid to chance exposure from crowds. Several people spoke about pilots in Canada not being present as usual; Ontario, for one, heightened lockdowns very recently. Foreign visits will surely be off.

This wide shot shows more Texas Aircraft Colts than I've ever seen in one place. After having to miss the Midwest show, the Hondo, Texas company geared-up for Sun 'n Fun. An all-American aircraft with Brazilian design roots. The company is one of the newest players and its business appears to be growing. In the background you see the 2021 event shaping up nicely for opening day tomorrow (April 13th).

Nonetheless… from what I can tell before the front gates open tomorrow (Tuesday April 13th), Sun 'n Fun staff and volunteers have done a great job of preparing, vendors are ready to talk to pilots, plenty of pretty flying machines are ready to catch your eye, and lots of people are ready to leave 2020 behind and get back to flying fun. Images with this article feature airplanes that I'll be going back to see in more detail when their staff is done setting up and ready to talk. I think I'm gonna be busy! ?

Attractively displayed on their stylish checkerboard that reflects off the bottom of this glowing Jabiru J-230D from US Sportplanes and JabiruLSA.com, here's a company well prepared for the new LSA regulation (a four seat Jabiru has been flying for years) yet this airplane hardly needs to change because it's been steadily upgraded for years.

G1 certainly resembles the CH-750 but it has its own design history. I interviewed the developer in Europe some years ago but G1 now has representation in North America. A Canadian representative could not get to Sun 'n Fun so some American associates were able to convince authorities to let them transport this aircraft so you can examine it. Videoman Dave has recently interviewed the importer.

Pilots heading to Sun ‘n Fun 2021 had no real idea what to expect. As evening approached on Sunday set-up day, a big black storm cloud rolled over Sun ‘n Fun’s Lakeland Airport campus, blowing guard shacks and plastic bathrooms around like pieces of paper. An omen? Hardly! The next morning… The good news is I saw no damage other than a couple cracked-up guard shacks. No airplane damage was obvious to me. The great news is final setup day was gloriously sunny and exhibit airplanes arrived steadily. By nightfall on Monday as exhibitors finished their preparations, Sun ‘n Fun was looking good and ready for pilots to descend on the Showgrounds. Several hands pitched in — thanks loudly to a great group from DeLand Showcase — to turn the LAMA LSA Mall into the regular attraction its become over the last 15 years. A fewer number of airplanes will be shown in the LSA Mall but at least one is a machine you’ve never seen before and others are head turners.

Third Generation Flight Design — Flying the New F2 at Midwest LSA Expo 2020

By Dan Johnson || October 29, 2020 10 Comments

➡️ Update 11/3/20 — A new video interview with Flight Design USA importer Tom Peghiny appears at the bottom of this article. —DJ In the beginning — as Light-Sport Aircraft entered the skies for the first time — German producer Flight Design brought the CTSW to American pilots. It was embraced enthusiastically and the U.S. importer Flight Design USA sold many units to aviators that had waited years for FAA to finalize their no-medical-required LSA segment. CTSW was something of a sports car, agile, quick, high performing but surprisingly roomy.

Then came the sophisticated CTLS, wholly redone for the American market. It enlarged the cabin and lengthened the fuselage becoming more deluxe throughout. Now, we come to F2 in what I'm calling the third generation of the iconic shape that still leads the LSA market after almost 17 years. The one and only example presently in America is currently based at Airtime Aviation in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Find even more info in this article.

F2 Arrives in America

I got to see prototype and introductory show-model versions of F2 and F2e, the electric aircraft that somewhat ironically was the very first to fly in Flight Design's new F-series. My early glimpses were at Aero 2019 and I wrote up what I observed; see it here.

Nearly every airshow was cancelled for 2020 amidst the global economic carnage driven by lockdowns and travel restrictions to contain Covid. Well, every show was scrubbed except the Midwest LSA Expo in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. Because that one and only event happened — with no negatives regarding the virus, so far as I know — I got to see and fly Flight Design's latest and greatest, the F2. Not only was the airshow a welcome change from the social barriers everyone had faced over the last few months, but Midwest 2020 provided a venue to see and fly the new model. "CTSW was a Porsche. CTLS was a Corvette. F2 is a Cadillac," said Tom Gutmann, Jr., the younger half of the father and son Airtime Aviation team that is the largest light aircraft dealership in the world.

Tom explained that F2 may look similar to CT but is a nose-to-tail, tip-to-tip refreshed design. It has been some time in development because as Tom noted, "Flight Design engineers had to rework the whole airplane. It is significantly larger than CTLS yet final production models should weigh no more." That's some accomplishment! It is also built quite differently. All CTLS are essentially "hand made" with hand-layup molds that display the skill of factory workers yet makes each one unique. For F2, Tom said, Flight Design uses molds created on 5-axis CNC shaping tools so each one is fabricated to precise specifications. You may not be able to see the difference in construction but the new method is far better for serial production.

"F2 is manufactured to close tolerances in pre-impregnated carbon fiber for great structural strength and light weight," said Flight Design in Germany. With prepreg carbon fiber from American company Hexcel, F2's honeycomb-core fuselage signifies a big step forward. Likewise, F2's new wing is a major redesign; the outboard sections feature aerodynamic cuffs (nearby photo). F2’s tail is all-new as well. CTLS's full-flying stabilator is replaced with a wider stabilizer that has a discrete two-piece elevator with a center section that remains stationary forming what's often called a duck tail. This aids in meeting the ASTM handling requirement. One result is that the airplane does not pitch up during a departure stall.

The altered horizontal tail works cooperatively with the wing cuffs to make a highly stall-resistant airframe, a feature FAA admires so much they gave Icon Aircraft additional weight for the A5 seaplane because the California developer redesigned to add the shape to their wings. Cirrus's SR20 and SR22 also use this design, as do other flying machines …because it works. F2's tail looks notably different than CTLS with a high-aspect-ratio vertical tail and slimmer rudder although the volume is similar. These changes — with the wing cuffs — contribute to better slow-speed handling and genuine spin resistance while still allowing a generous slip and yielding plenty of rudder authority in crosswinds.

Creature Comforts

At 53 inches wide, F2's cabin is spacious enough to lead the LSA category. The cockpit is wider than a Cessna 172 or 182 and even broader than a Beech Bonanza.

A minor annoyance was turned into a minor feature; the addition of an outside door handle.

The seats in CTLS are very comfortable and even have dual air-bulb adjustment for maximum comfort, but you had to adjust them before you entered. With F2, you can manually slide fore and aft anytime and the seat raises and lowers electrically. The throttle does double duty; forward for get up and go and pulled aft to apply brakes; it makes for a simplified cockpit. The baggage space is enormous, among the biggest of all LSA.

However …whew! On a warm day at Midwest LSA Expo, I certainly wished for better ventilation. I understand that has already changed for production models; the F2 I flew is prototype #2, evidenced by "Experimental" on the side of the fuselage.

Flight Design chose to replace Dynon of the CTLS era with Garmin’s G3X Touch avionics. F2 comes with dual 10-inch touchscreens.

Flying F2 — Initial Impressions

With its Rotax 912iS 100-horsepower engine, F2 accelerated briskly to its 52-knot rotation speed breaking ground in roughly 500 feet with a bit of breeze straight down the runway. Importer Tom Peghiny who flew the demo routine with me said to use 70 knots for early climb, 60 knots for best angle, and 80 knots for enroute climb.

Cruise speed at a low altitude (approximately 3,000 feet density altitude) exceeded 115 knots while burning barely over 4 gallons an hour; Rotax's 912iS is known for its fuel miserliness. This allows a topped-off F2 to fly close to 1,000 statute miles. You can fly cross country to a destination and return to base without buying fuel. I once enjoyed this quality while flying to the Bahamas in CTLS; I never had to buy any fuel. Tom Gutmann compared F2 to CTLS. "We picked the fastest CTLS we have, a Jubilee model that is five or six knots faster than any other CTLS we've seen. F2 was four knots faster, with the same engine. Tom has been evaluating F2 vigorously, logging 25 hours in barely over a month.

A combination of wing cuffs, revised empennage with its fixed duck tail, and tip-vortices-reducing winglets make F2’s stalls and slow flight about as uneventful as I've experienced; much like Icon's A5, which was equally docile at slow speeds. Even with the joystick full aft F2 did nothing exciting. It did not drop a wing and resisted any stall break.

Landings were easier than CTLS, which demands no more than 60 knots on approach unless you're willing to float well down the runway. F2 was more user-friendly, a phrase I think many will generally use for F2.

With better ventilation and losing a few pounds once in serial production, F2 is a winner for those seeking a luxurious Light-Sport Aircraft. Contact Airtime Aviation and get a demo flight as soon as you can. Until then, here are impressions in video form.

https://youtu.be/4kBRY79lw5Y

Here is a newly-released video interview with U.S. importer, Tom Peghiny from Oshkosh 2019. It describes the aircraft and the entire F-series from Flight Design. https://youtu.be/DAs_ocUd77E

➡️ Update 11/3/20 — A new video interview with Flight Design USA importer Tom Peghiny appears at the bottom of this article. —DJ In the beginning — as Light-Sport Aircraft entered the skies for the first time — German producer Flight Design brought the CTSW to American pilots. It was embraced enthusiastically and the U.S. importer Flight Design USA sold many units to aviators that had waited years for FAA to finalize their no-medical-required LSA segment. CTSW was something of a sports car, agile, quick, high performing but surprisingly roomy. Then came the sophisticated CTLS, wholly redone for the American market. It enlarged the cabin and lengthened the fuselage becoming more deluxe throughout. Now, we come to F2 in what I’m calling the third generation of the iconic shape that still leads the LSA market after almost 17 years. The one and only example presently in America is currently based at Airtime Aviation in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Flight Design’s F2 Light-Sport Aircraft on Tour — Bringing the “Airshow” to the People

By Dan Johnson || August 12, 2020 9 Comments

Although a mirror reflection of the greater global economy, many pilots are stunned that airshow after airshow has fallen to the virus. It seems like two or three years ago when, back in February 2020, Videoman Dave and I covered the Copperstate/Buckeye show west of Phoenix. Here's another sure sign of virus-induced time distortion. This year, 2020, was the first year that the Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation did not happen after a good run of 15 years. Yes, only seven months ago, many of us would've been heading to Sebring, Florida. Little did we know in those carefree times what cataclysm was to follow starting in March 2020. When cut off from usual routines, what does an inventive entrepreneur do?

Take to the Air!

Tom Peghiny, the veteran importer of the most successful LSA brand in America, has a new nose-to-tail, winglet-to-winglet Light-Sport Aircraft to show airshow attendees …except he can't.

Tom has run Flight Design USA since before the category was implemented by FAA back in 2004. He was an early leader in the ASTM process — through its first three (contentious) years, he chaired the all-important Design & Performance Subcommittee that created the biggest chunk of the standards used by airplane producers today. After selling more than 300 CT-series aircraft to Americans, Tom is keen to promote his brand new model. What he lacks is a show to take it to, so what to do? After media reported a flare-up of the virus in places Tom expected to visit, he had to cut back earlier tour plans. Instead, he chose to take the airplane to some key writers, let them fly F2, and they could tell their readership. It's not as good as face-to-face conversations at airshows, but it's an excellent way to communicate with the pilot community. Soon, he'll welcome a writer for AVweb and he will fly F2 down to AOPA's home in Frederick, Maryland to let one of their senior writers have a crack at the new model. How will they like it? I asked what aspects of F2 he planned to show off to these journalists.

"Feels Bigger; Flies Great"

Flying F2 since it arrived in the USA — the model was announced at Aero 2019; video below — Tom has been getting more deeply familiar with the new model.

"I'm very impressed with F2. It feels like a bigger airplane, very solid in the air. More stable than I expected. Very easy to land." He's comparing to the CTLS that so many other pilots know. "F2 feels more stable in the air compared to our CTLS, which offers a sportier feel." Pressing him for details, Tom recounted the following story from a recent flight. It involved F2's autopilot. "As you know, with the Garmin (or any) autopilot, you have a few stages to get it set up. When you're ready you engage it with an 'AP' button." After several minutes of flying almost hands-off straight and level, Tom realized he'd never engaged the autopilot. "F2 behaves so steadily, that even though I had it ready, I hadn't turned it on yet," Tom said. "It's that stable." “One of the reasons stability is so important is that we are in the process of certifying F2 to Europe's CS-23 version of FAA's Part 23 and also plan to certify it for IFR flight in IMC, making it a logical choice as a training aircraft,” observed Tom. That all sounds great, but how to account for such a stride forward? At least three attributes appear to deliver the improvements:

F2 has a longer fuselage, about a foot longer than CTLS (22.5 feet on F2 vs. 21.6 on CTLS).
F2 has a very wide stabilizer, substantially larger than CTLS (10.3 feet vs. 7.8 for CTLS). Additionally, the newer model now uses a fixed stabilizer with discreet elevator where CTLS employs a stabilator.
Finally, vertical height of the tailplane is impressive. F2's tall tail is approximately 6.2 feet vs. 4.6 feet for CTLS.

In one of the nearby photos taken from the nose of F2, the vertical surface of the tailplane appears enormous, one to rival the very tall tail on an AirCam. However, that's a bit of visual deception. The vertical stabilizer and rudder are relatively high aspect ratio, that is, long and slim. "F2's tall, thin vertical may be a little rudder limited for slips, but you can still do them," Tom confirmed. The market leading Rotax 912iS is the only engine for the LSA version of F2 (a CS-23 version is also awaiting approval by European authorities). "At present Flight Design is not planning a 915iS for F2-LSA," Tom noted, adding that he thought it would be challenging to keep within the current LSA speed limit using the more potent 141 horsepower engine. More power appears unneeded. Tom reported 118 IAS at 2,500 feet. At 8,500, F2 will zip right past 120 knots measured in TAS (as is allowed). This is especially true, Tom said, because "the iS series of injected engines does better at altitudes than the carbureted models."

When the flight is over, F2 is reportedly easier to land. I asked how? "A longer wheelbase reduces porpoising and a single beam landing gear absorbs rebound tendency. "We also think that beam gear will end up being more rugged." Another helpful feature is the single throttle and brake lever (image below): forward is go; back is stop. Simple. Other designs have used this technique, good because the pilot's hand never needs to move during the critical touchdown and rollout phase of flight.

Pilot Friendlier

When the fuselage stretched, it not only got longer and leaner looking but it got wider and taller, too. This increased cabin volume. F2 is two inches wider (50.5 inches) and has a much larger aft cabin than CTLS (which has a hat rack on each side; handy, but much smaller). F2's cabin is higher, better for tall pilots and larger doors allow easier entry.

Inside Flight Design's new F2. Note the two black "bars" in the middle section of the panel. Those house AmSafe airbags.

That big cabin is designed to protect its occupants, a long-term effort by Flight Design. "F2 has an extremely rigid cabin; at least two times more than the CT-series." Like CTLS, F2's cabin is built around a center tunnel or beam "that is very stout," Tom added. F2 is also more deluxe. It has an automobile feel to it, Tom thought. Indeed, with AmSafe air bags (interior photo; see black vertical bars), auto style inertia reel harnesses, and gas-piston-adjustable seats that adjust electrically for height adjustment, F2 is clearly a luxury model.

As with the whole Flight Design line, F2 will be distributed, sold, and maintained by Airtime Aviation, the world's largest LSA dealer.

Size doesn't come free, of course. The extra interior room, longer span, wider tail, and stretched fuselage add 107 pounds to F2 compared with CTLS, using basic empty weight facts from company brochures (717 pounds vs. 824 on F2). No doubt F2's four foot longer span wing (32.4 feet on F2 vs. 28.2 feet on CTLS) carries weight better and may be another reason, along with the new winglets, accounting for the good handling report. "F2 is very efficient," Tom said. The wing design is higher aspect, using the same chord as CTLS but a longer span. "The higher you go, the better the wing flies. It will be very good for longer cruising flights, above 8,000 feet, for example."

F2's new combined throttle and brake handle. Forward to go and back to stop. It can't get any simpler and it keeps the pilot's hand where it needs to be throughout landing.

If you look carefully (it's subtle from most angles), F2's wing uses cuffs as does the Icon Aircraft A5. I flew that LSA seaplane to find very well behaved manners almost no matter what you did with the controls and airspeed management. That safety attribute earned Icon extra gross weight; FAA granted such because those cuffs provide greatly enhanced slow speed stability. As the linked article above indicates, FAA told LAMA's board of directors that any design that could prove a "stall resistant airframe" to FAA's satisfaction could petition for a higher gross weight so it is entirely possible F2 could also request more pounds.

As we discussed the two planes, Tom said he thought I could do the same maneuvers with F2 that I'd done with the Icon A5 and I'd get a similar sensation. "Departure stalls simply don't," Tom described. "With full flaps, it will 'nod' a bit, a kind of pre-stall but with neutral flaps the stick remains effective at all times." Tom worked closely with Flight Design during development of F2, playing key roles. He closed saying, "I knew we could achieve those characteristics but I didn't know how well it would fly." I could almost see his smile over the phone. I look forward to experience F2, perhaps at the Midwest LSA Expo still on schedule for September 10-11-12 in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, east of St. Louis.

https://youtu.be/wuUUbP4imNE

Although a mirror reflection of the greater global economy, many pilots are stunned that airshow after airshow has fallen to the virus. It seems like two or three years ago when, back in February 2020, Videoman Dave and I covered the Copperstate/Buckeye show west of Phoenix. Here’s another sure sign of virus-induced time distortion. This year, 2020, was the first year that the Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation did not happen after a good run of 15 years. Yes, only seven months ago, many of us would’ve been heading to Sebring, Florida. Little did we know in those carefree times what cataclysm was to follow starting in March 2020. When cut off from usual routines, what does an inventive entrepreneur do? Take to the Air! Tom Peghiny, the veteran importer of the most successful LSA brand in America, has a new nose-to-tail, winglet-to-winglet Light-Sport Aircraft to show airshow attendees …except he can’t.

High Value Mission — Flight Training that Meets Special Requirements in Light-Sport Aircraft

By Dan Johnson || May 4, 2020 1 Comment

Able Flight pilot Stephany Glassing.

American are very gracious with their donations to good causes. Charitable giving in the USA exceeded $400 billion in 2018 alone. Even during uncertain times as the world currently find itself, Americans still prove surprisingly generous. It makes me proud. I've joined in when it comes to Able Flight, having on several occasions given money to Able Flight. For a pilot, I cannot comprehend how a fellow aviator can ignore this worthy effort, lead by founder and main man Charles Stites. He has single-handedly generated funds from numerous donors, found Light-Sport Aircraft with hand controls, lead the effort to select wonderful scholarship winners, and donated so many of his own hours that I'll bet he can't even add them up …for sure, it's a lot of time invested. You have many, many great organizations you can support but this one, for pilots anyway, should hit very close to home. If you are so moved, go here to donate. Please consider helping.

Go Able Flight!

Ten people from throughout the country have been selected as recipients of an Able Flight Scholarship for 2020. Eight will train at Able Flight’s program at Purdue University, one will earn a CFI certificate with his Career Training Scholarship, and one will become Able Flight’s first student to attend training late in 2020 at the Aerospace Center For Excellence in Lakeland, Florida.

Able Flight scholarship recipients pose in front of their Sky Arrow at Purdue University in 2013.

Able Flight's carefully-laid plans got upended along with the rest of society when the coronavirus panic hit. Now Able Flight wrote, "Just a few months ago Able Flight awarded ten new scholarships for training in 2020. Though all 'in-flight' training is on hold as of late April 2020, we are pleased to report that all students are currently in ground school training through an online course generously provided by Sporty's Pilot Shop."

Flight instructor Nick Losanda observes while Able Flight pilot Curtis Standley preflights.

"In addition," Charles continued, "scholarship recipients will soon be taking part in a live online classroom ground school program led by our lead flight instructor at Purdue, Lucero Duran. This will allow the students to complete training for the FAA Knowledge Test and take the exam this summer as previously scheduled. We are exploring options to resume in-flight training at several locations as soon as safety and health conditions, and changes in governmental restrictions, allow.

And Now… This Year's Winners!

Of the ten scholarship recipients, six use wheelchairs due to paralysis, one is deaf, one has a paralyzed arm, and two are amputees. Four are veterans; with one being wounded in combat and three becoming disabled due to injuries.

The members of the Able Flight “Class of 2020” are as follows (numbered according to photo, not in any order of importance): Chris Murad (1) of Georgia. Chris recently graduated from Georgia Tech with an aerospace degree. He became paralyzed in 2016 when shot during a robbery as he was leaving work. Chris will train at Purdue University. Joshua Martin (2) of Texas. Joshua is a graduate of West Point who trained and served as a Special Operations helicopter pilot before losing his lower left leg due to a motor vehicle accident in 2018. With his scholarship, Joshua will return to flying by earning his fixed-wing pilot certificate. Joshua will train at Purdue University. Michael Price (3) of North Dakota. Michael is a graduate of Penn Foster University in Fargo, ND, and had his first flight as part of an introductory program in 1997. That same day he became paralyzed due to injuries from a car accident. Michael will train at Purdue University.

Jon Hansen gave me a chance to fly Sky Arrow with hand controls in 2007. Before he died in 2019, Jon was a longtime supporter of Able Flight. Here's an article on his other donations.

Peyton Wolter (4) of Wisconsin. Peyton grew up active in a variety of outdoor sports and became paralyzed in late 2017 as a result of an injury sustained in a boating accident. Peyton will train at Purdue University. Sheila Zhi Xu (5) of Nevada. Sheila is a graduate of MIT and has been both a participant in the Fulbright Scholarship Program and an intern at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Shelia was born with profound hearing loss in both ears, and will train at Purdue University. Jason Daugherty (6) of Georgia. Jason was first exposed to flying in the fifth grade through a course taught by a teacher who was a licensed pilot. His plans to become a pilot were halted in 2003 when he became paralyzed due to a car accident. Jason will train at Purdue University.

As have other LSA producers, Flight Design created hand controls, which they provided without charge.

T’angelo Magee (7) of Pennsylvania. T’angelo is a veteran of the U.S. Army with multiple combat deployments who became paralyzed due to injuries from a motorcycle accident. In 2019, he participated in the Able Flight program at Purdue where he both soloed and passed his written exam before an illness forced him to cut short his training. T’angelo will train at Purdue University. Austin “Chance” Field (8) of Texas. Chance Field spent several summers working around planes at an FBO operated by his aunt and uncle before serving in the Navy. In 2006 he was paralyzed due to injuries from a motor vehicle accident. Austin will train at the Aerospace Center For Excellence in Lakeland, Florida. Steven Curry (9) of Virginia. Steven served in the U.S. Army in both Afghanistan and Iraq. His plans to secure a Warrant Officer training slot to become a helicopter pilot ended when injuries from an IED required the amputation of his left leg below the knee. Steven with train at Aviation Adventures in Virginia. David Snypes, Jr. (10) of New York. David is a veteran of the U.S. Army having served from 2009 to 2016, including tours in Afghanistan. In 2016, he lost the use of his left arm due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. David will train at Purdue University. The preceding list is only for this year. Go here to see all the scholarship recipients. Our interview with Charles Stites appears below but Able Flight has many inspirational videos to watch.

https://youtu.be/coLbYxirlMo

American are very gracious with their donations to good causes. Charitable giving in the USA exceeded $400 billion in 2018 alone. Even during uncertain times as the world currently find itself, Americans still prove surprisingly generous. It makes me proud. I’ve joined in when it comes to Able Flight, having on several occasions given money to Able Flight. For a pilot, I cannot comprehend how a fellow aviator can ignore this worthy effort, lead by founder and main man Charles Stites. He has single-handedly generated funds from numerous donors, found Light-Sport Aircraft with hand controls, lead the effort to select wonderful scholarship winners, and donated so many of his own hours that I’ll bet he can’t even add them up …for sure, it’s a lot of time invested. You have many, many great organizations you can support but this one, for pilots anyway, should hit very close to home.

Virtual Sun ‘n Fun 2020 — 5 Light Aircraft You Might Have Seen in Lakeland

By Dan Johnson || April 11, 2020 Leave a Comment

While I continue to worry about the cash crunch faced by two of my favorite shows, I am still driven to provide content as if those shows had occurred this year and not been postponed to 2021.

Of course, I refer to Aero Friedrichshafen and Sun 'n Fun, the latter my focus for this post. Here I will relate five aircraft you might have seen in Lakeland last week …before it was bumped to early May, but which is now off until April 2021. I admit I secretly hoped for good news in these sad cancellations that might allow me to attend both events in 2021. I had to pick one over the other in 2020 as they were exactly opposite one another. Unfortunately for my schedule, the year-long postponement didn't change anything. Sun 'n Fun 2021 will be 13-18 of April while Aero 2021 is planned for 14-17 April. Oh, well …pick one again. Meanwhile, in happier news, I have some interesting flying machines for you to consider.

Bristell 915iS

The successful model from the very active BRM Aero in the Czech Republic was always a favorite for its exquisite design with no detail overlooked, with some of the smoothest execution in the industry. It's wide cabin and luxurious appointments puts Bristell almost in a class of its own, with a price tag to match.

Bristell with Rotax's uber-powerful, 141-horsepower 915iS fuel injected, turbocharged, and intercooler engine bumps the selling price beyond reach of many aviators while still being a fraction of its equivalent among legacy general aviation airplanes. You'll pay in the high $200,000 range for Bristell 915 but what a superlative airplane you'll receive for that money. While the price might discourage some, fear not, as main man Lou Mancuso also offers a shared ownership program that may be the best I've ever heard (details in this video). As we launched on our photo mission with Bristell going first, it was clear this machine can soar into the sky faster than almost any LSA I've seen short of much-slower-cruising STOL designs. Look for our video to follow with more information about the latest offered by Bristell USA. BRM Aero is definitely a moving target with new models in the works, but as with all the vendors featured in this virtual preview, you will have to learn about the new ideas at a later airshow. Stay tuned! ••• Get Lots More Info — Bristell USA (for North America) or BRM Aero (for other countries)

Jabiru J230D

For a very rare airframe company that also builds its own engines, welcome to the all-new Jabiru J230D with their latest Gen 4 (generation 4) Jabiru engine. The two seater LSA is also supplied as a four seater in its homeland of Australia, so this American model offers not only one of the most voluminous aft cabins in all of LSA-land but a separate, third door to access it.

Representative U.S. Sport Planes, led by industry veteran Scott Severen, has demonstrated this baggage capacity with photos showing a large dog sitting comfortably aft of the pilots. Those who struggle to load a couple small bags in most airplanes may be envious of the ease of entry to the back cabin. Yet capacity is not the whole story behind J230D. This new model has refinements to make it fly even nicer. Since J230 models were already able to speed to the top of the category, improvements are focused on fit and finish and handling qualities. In addition to the updated airframe, Jabiru is now in full production on their Gen 4 engine offered in two configurations: a four-cylinder 2200 model producing 80 horsepower; and the six-cylinder 3300 model with 120 horsepower. Learn more about both Gen 4 engines. The J230D uses the later to scoot along at max LSA speed. ••• Get Lots More Info — U.S. Sport Planes

Flight Design F2

Flight Design has been busy over the last year. Not only have they come out with their CTLS 2020 (fresh news) but they've put their all-new F2 through multiple tests. The German company is almost ready to begin deliveries.

Since I first saw the F2 in mock up, Flight Design has redesigned the intake for two reasons: "to reduce drag as we confirmed the older version was very functional but draggy; and for aesthetic reasons," said the company. "Flight Design team designer and Head of Airworthiness, Christian Majunke, designed conceptually. He also designed a rather novel installation of the coolant and oil radiators," elaborated Flight Design USA representative, Tom Peghiny. Also new panel is an SLSA panel with twin G3X screens, a Garmin GTR 225 Com, Garmin GTX 345 ADSB in and out transponder, Garmin GMC 507 autopilot control head (with dual axis autopilot), and Garmin GMA 245 intercom. Pilot controls remain essentially as they were on the CT-series but note the combined single lever throttle and brake system. "Our F2 prototype number 002 arrived at port in Miami in preparation for display at Sun n Fun 2020," said Tom. Like most vendors, Flight Design USA hoped to go forward with the Lakeland show but will now unveil the new model at Oshkosh 2020 (assuming it remains on schedule). "After completing all SLSA required flight testing including the demanding ASTM 3180 anti-spin requirements, production has started on the first aircraft from production tooling in Germany, Ukraine and the Czech Republic," concluded Tom. ••• Get Lots More Info — Flight Design USA

Whisper X350

You know the Czech Cessna-182 lookalike called L600 from AeroPilot USA. You also know the dashing FX1 from InnovAviation in Italy. Both of these interesting models are represented by Deon Lombard of AeroPilot USA, now based in Florida but with representation in California.

At Sun 'n Fun 2020, Deon expected to introduce Whisper to American kit builders. Alas, as with the rest of this group, you probably won't see it until July in Wisconsin.

Whisper Aircraft in South Africa has created Whisper X350 Gen II, a two-seat, cross-country sport aircraft with a limit load factor of plus 6.0 and minus 4.0 Gs. Those are merely limit loads. This is a tough bird.

Whisper wings feature a carbon fiber structure tested to an ultimate load factor of 12.0 Gs. The Gen II’s wing tanks offer a total fuel capacity of 63 U.S. gallons, giving a range of 1,000 nautical miles and an endurance of over 6 hours.

"The aircraft also has one of the widest interiors on the market today, featuring optional leather interior and plenty of baggage room making the Gen II perfect for comfortable cross-country trips. This will make a good member of the AeroPilot USA family. A few more specs: Useful Load — 925 pounds; Speed — 175 knots; Range — 1,137 miles.

••• Get Lots More Info — AeroPilot USA

Montaer MC-01

It might have been one of the great flights to reach Sun 'n Fun 2020, had it occurred. That's because designer and company representative Bruno de Oliveira had planned to fly his new model all the way from Brazil to Lakeland. That alone would have been reason to examine the new Light-Sport Aircraft.

Bruno will be aided in his approach to the U.S. market by longtimer, Ed Ricks, who once helped the Paradise Aircraft people with their P1NG (video). Unfortunately, that relationship faded but when Bruno, who once worked for Paradise, struck out on his own, Ed and partner were pleased to get back involved. MC-01's airframe is constructed with 4130 molybdenum steel tube providing a greater safety to the occupants. The exterior is all aeronautical aluminum fuselage and wings. A steerable nose wheel, dual toe brakes, and control yokes are just some of the features of this well built airplane. Learn more here; get more specs here. Had Ed been able to show MC-01 at Sun 'n Fun 2020 he was ready to make a special offer. While this handsome, approved, all-metal airplane normally sells for a reasonable $135,000, an introductory price of only $125,000 was to be the show special. If you're lucky, Ed may extend the offer to AirVenture Oshkosh 2020 (assuming it remains on its present schedule). ••• Get Lots More Info — Montaer USA

While I continue to worry about the cash crunch faced by two of my favorite shows, I am still driven to provide content as if those shows had occurred this year and not been postponed to 2021. Of course, I refer to Aero Friedrichshafen and Sun ‘n Fun, the latter my focus for this post. Here I will relate five aircraft you might have seen in Lakeland last week …before it was bumped to early May, but which is now off until April 2021. I admit I secretly hoped for good news in these sad cancellations that might allow me to attend both events in 2021. I had to pick one over the other in 2020 as they were exactly opposite one another. Unfortunately for my schedule, the year-long postponement didn’t change anything. Sun ‘n Fun 2021 will be 13-18 of April while Aero 2021 is planned for 14-17 April.

Virtual Press Conference — Flight Design Has a Fresh News on CT2020, F2, & More

By Dan Johnson || April 7, 2020 3 Comments

Meanwhile, I have been producing more content here on ByDanJohnson.com so everyone sheltering-in-place can at least fantasy fly their favorite flying machine. I will also continue with the "Virtual Aero" or "Virtual Sun 'n Fun" articles. In fact, next up after this one will be a post about new aircraft you would have seen in Lakeland, Florida in May …before Sun 'n Fun regretfully* called it off until 2021. One company, Flight Design ga, offered a "virtual press conference." The company said, "As all airshows are postponed, we chose this way to inform you regarding the current developments at Flight Design. We are also available for individual phone calls." In America, contact Flight Design USA or Airtime Aviation.

CTLS 2020

CTLS 2020 is a balanced combination of the well proven CTLS with technical and aerodynamic upgrades along with a new exterior and interior look.

Changes for 2020 include a reshaped and longer cowling, Blackline propeller with new spinner, fully integrated landing light, and an additional NACA inlet to improve cooling. Other aerodynamic improvements include new landing gear legs with internal brake lines and new low drag wheel fairings. This all leads to significantly reduced drag and an increase in maximum speed. The company reports, "[These] aerodynamic modifications have made the CTLS 2020 nearly 10 knots faster!"

A new Garmin G3X avionic suite with a more powerful Garmin radio and transponder, gives increased situational awareness. Combined with the Garmin GMC 507 autopilot and its pilot assistant function, additional safety is available for regular flight operations. The interior of CTLS 2020 has also been upgraded using a Garmin GMA 245 audio panel with USB charging port, Bluetooth connection and Garmin’s "home theater" top-end quality sound makes flying more comfortable. Flight Design's new “Royal Black” interior treatment coordinates with a new "jet-gray" base paint on the exterior. All previous CTs used a white base paint with graphics overlaid.

F2 and F2e

I previously reported on the German manufacturer's new F-series aircraft. Here's a short video review.

"Our F2 Light-Sport Aircraft model is fully ASTM-compliant after fine tuning," noted the company. "Our first airplanes will be delivered to customers in June 2020. Careful engineering allowed us to bring this complex airplane under the maximum allowed take-off weight (of 1,320 pounds or 600 kilograms)." For European consumption, Flight Design is pursuing CS-23 approval (similar to FAA's Part 23) for their two seat F2, however, this model will be able to fly at 650 kilograms (1,430 pounds) of maximum takeoff weight when it is granted a CS-23 certificate. "We think this will be ideal for modern flight schools and private pilots," the company stated. Construction of Flight Design's newest uses a new composite supplier, Hexcel.

More than 2,000 CT-series aircraft are flying today. The German producer has always relied on vacuum-pressured, wet-laminate carbon fiber structures to reduce airframe weight.

Late in 2017, a Flight Design review concluded that prepregs could deliver a more consistent final product by ensuring constant material quality and processing parameters and could produce a lighter and stronger aircraft at a more competitive overall cost. The low-temperature cure could be done outside an autoclave. The latter reduces tooling costs and can boost build rates. Following careful analysis, the company went with Hexcel. Prepreg materials — "pre-impregnated" composite fibers have an epoxy material already present — were first used for the F2 prototype.

Flight Design began to review the market for available material options with a key part of its strategy to find and qualify a prepreg system that is not traditionally used in higher cost autoclave production for aerospace applications.

The German airframe maker said, "Hexcel has been a major supplier of advanced composite materials to the aerospace market for more than 70 years including for Boeing's 787 and Airbus' A350 XWB. "We chose Hexcel as our key supplier, adopting one of the company's low-temperature-curing prepreg products for our aircraft production."

Carbon Offsets Program

Being particularly keen on reducing carbon in the atmosphere, Flight Design bosses wanted to take strides to further their goals in this regard.

Already in operation since March 1st, Flight Design will "offset" the carbon emissions from the fuel burned by their airplanes during the first 2,000 hours of operation. They'll do this by employing the Rotax 912 iS Sport engine that uses much less fuel per hour than older GA training models powered by legacy aircraft engines.

Beginning in 2021, their two-seat F2e ("e" for electric propulsion) will allow professional flight-schools to build a hybrid fleet with advanced CO2 compensated and pure electric flight aircraft. For their conventionally-powered four-seat F4 in development, Flight Design has switched from an older, less efficient engine to the new Rotax 915iS.

Offsets will come from cash contributions by Flight Design to programs that meet internationally-accepted standards. Funds will be deployed to planting more trees and other actions that consume CO2.

"We understand that the percentage of carbon emission by private flying of small aircraft is not very much," Flight Design said, "and we know people still discuss the real influence of CO2 emissions but taking responsibility is our way to enjoy flying without any regrets." Flight Design credited help from Rotax to their goals. "Carbon emission offsets will be based on tests made by Rotax. These tests will continue until BRP-Rotax confirms the final results. Afterwards the procedure will be validated by an international testing organization. We are very grateful to BRP-Rotax for assisting the aviation community with reliable data to enable this program."

* for events like Sun 'n Fun and Aero — as with most organization-sponsored airshows — their big annual events provide a substantial share of their yearly budgets so cancelling is something they do with great trepidation and only after very careful consideration. We hope for the best for these vitally-important events and hope they can make their finances work going forward.

As everyone on the planet knows by now, aviation has nary an airshow in sight. Even AirVenture Oshkosh — still planned at this writing — is hedging their bets amid the uncertainty, saying they will make additional decisions in the weeks ahead. Most of us who love (and rely on) these aviation events certainly hope OSH’20 can go on as planned. It will be wonderful to get back into a familiar routine. Meanwhile, I have been producing more content here on ByDanJohnson.com so everyone sheltering-in-place can at least fantasy fly their favorite flying machine. I will also continue with the “Virtual Aero” or “Virtual Sun ‘n Fun” articles. In fact, next up after this one will be a post about new aircraft you would have seen in Lakeland, Florida in May …before Sun ‘n Fun regretfully* called it off until 2021. One company, Flight Design ga, offered a “virtual press conference.” The company said, “As all airshows are postponed, we chose this way to inform you regarding the current developments at Flight Design.

Flight Design’s “Secret Weapon” in the USA: Tom & Tom Gutmann and Airtime Aviation

By Dan Johnson || February 29, 2020 Leave a Comment

How does one LSA brand rise and stay above others?

Many reasons can be introduced; all possibly valid. However, it doesn't hurt when a brand has a distributor that itself rises above all the rest.

In case you think I am torturing the "above all the rest" metaphor, well, you may not have met the Gutmann team in the flesh. Once you do, I think you'll see my point very clearly.

Looking Up to Tom & Tom

My tongue-in-cheek subtitle comes from the perspective of an average-sized pilot talking to the father and son team of Tom Sr. and Tom Jr. Gutmann. These gentle giants stand so tall above me that even Tom Cruise's acting box would not let me look this pair eye-to-eye. Indeed, it is a tribute to the spaciousness of CT-series interiors that both these beefy fellows fit inside comfortably. Don't try that in a Cessna 150 (or even a 172)! Flight Design's CT-series is roomy inside, 49 inches wide, a full 10 inches more than a Cessna 172. It also has super visibility. These facts are true of both CTLS, the current flagship of the German producer, and for the newest CT Super Sport, as seen in most of the nearby photos. The image of the two of us in the cockpit clearly shows that Tom Jr. and I have several inches between our shoulders and we were not smashed up against the door to produce this view.

Tom and I flew Super Sport at the Midwest LSA Expo (see video below) where I renewed my enthusiasm over the earlier CTSW model. While it has been a few years since I flew CTSW, I clearly recall it had dashing performance that the more luxurious (read: heavier) CTLS cannot quite match. Super Sport continues that, weighing as it does around 100 pounds less than CTLS and its 1,000 fpm climb rate supports the worth of that weight reduction. Super Sport is an upgrade from CTSW, however, as it uses three primary elements of the sophisticated CTLS and CTLSi. Super Sport has the wings, entire tailplane, and the main landing gear of CTLS. In my humble opinion, these were smart additions and created a new plane from two prior models.

What you don't get with CT Super Sport is the back window and hat rack cabin space of CTLS. The slight enlargement of the longer, fancier LS does indeed make the cabin feel roomier and you have less space for things you need in the cockpit — though the floor compartments in front of both seats will suffice for most things you may want to access during flight. Both models keep the ample storage area aft of the cabin but you cannot access that while flying. For this review, Super Sport was equipped with the Rotax 912 iS Sport engine that delivers such wonderful fuel economy. That's why the tail shows "Super Sport i."

Airtime for All

Whatever Flight Design offers aviators, one U.S. distributor can always supply. That's the Gutmann's Airtime Aviation enterprise, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Airtime Aviation Inc. — also found by the simple, easy-to-remember FlyCT.com — is operated by father and son team of Tom (Senior) and Tom (Junior) Gutmann. Airtime Aviation has delivered more than 200 CT aircraft to customers around the United States.

Coordinating closely with Flight Design USA, lead by Tom Peghiny, the Gutmanns are intimately aware of all things Flight Design. You can engage either Tom by phone call (try: 918-630-5927 or 918-625-5442).

More About Super Sport

The CT-series has long offered several compelling safety attributes. The "egg-shaped" design offers a protective "safety cell" cabin known in the automotive world as a "crush zone." Simplisitically, this means forces of an impact are directed around the occupants to protect them. Since its introduction as a LSA, every CT model has come standard equipped with an emergency airframe parachute. You may never need this capability, but it provides peace of mind for pilot and encourages less-certain passengers to go aloft with you. A slippery all-carbon fiber exterior allows Super Sport to reach the LSA speed limit of 120 knots. We commonly saw 115 knots at a shade over 75% power yet burned only 4-5 gallons per hour of auto fuel or avgas; you can use either in any mixture, which is true for all 912 engines. The speed figures come from flying at lower altitudes (2,000-3,000 feet AGL). Given its voluminous 34 gallon fuel tanks Super Sport can manage a non-stop flight of more than 1,000 statute miles! Super Sport comes standard with a single Dynon SkyView screen that can be used in conjunction with an optional autopilot. Air-bulb-adjustable seat backs and cushions aid human comfort as does cabin heat and plenty of fresh-air ventilation.

https://youtu.be/3jmLY-zRrIU

How does one LSA brand rise and stay above others? Many reasons can be introduced; all possibly valid. However, it doesn’t hurt when a brand has a distributor that itself rises above all the rest. In case you think I am torturing the “above all the rest” metaphor, well, you may not have met the Gutmann team in the flesh. Once you do, I think you’ll see my point very clearly. Looking Up to Tom & Tom My tongue-in-cheek subtitle comes from the perspective of an average-sized pilot talking to the father and son team of Tom Sr. and Tom Jr. Gutmann. These gentle giants stand so tall above me that even Tom Cruise’s acting box would not let me look this pair eye-to-eye. Indeed, it is a tribute to the spaciousness of CT-series interiors that both these beefy fellows fit inside comfortably. Don’t try that in a Cessna 150 (or even a 172)!

Charging Back into the Lead — Flight Design ga’s F2 and F2e Light-Sport Aircraft (Gasoline or Electric)

By Dan Johnson || June 13, 2019 2 Comments

Once upon a time in the then-new world of Light-Sport Aircraft Flight Design lead the pack for airplanes delivered and registered. That #1 ranking lasted for a decade.

Then came a pause in the juggernaut that is Flight Design, a German company with a popular design. The company's expenses outran their revenues and a major restructuring was forced upon them by the German legal system. This was 2015 but at Aero Friedrichshafen 2019, the company was looking strong. Their prominent space in Aero's huge gymnasium-sized exhibit halls was filled with interesting machines, including the distinctive Horten flying wing. All these today operate under the parent name, Lift, which also acquired the Rotorvox deluxe gyroplane. Attracting a lot of attention was their brand-new F-series. Displayed as the first aircraft visitors saw, F2 is an evolved version of the company's successful CT-series, which remains in active manufacturing. F2 was also shown with electric power. This was called F2e, or as their staff abbreviated it, "F-twee" (proving German engineers do indeed possess a sense of humor). The F-series will also include a new F4 four-seat version to follow, an evolution from the CT-series' C4 four seater unveiled in 2015.

What's New? …Everything!

As you look at our short video below, you can see that the baggage area aft of the two seat is huge, rivaling the capaciousness of even Jabiru's roomy J-230D. This voluminous aft compartment may suggest a natural progression to the four seater F4 that will follow but it is not just a large baggage area that looks different. The entire airframe is new as a quick glance confirms.

F2's cabin is 3.1 inches wider — now 51 inches wide, among the broadest in the category — and two inches taller than the CT series’ cabins. Door dimensions have also been increased, making for easier entry and exit. The entry door is set 2.3 inches lower than those in the CT series and pilots who are less flexible will appreciate these changes. Four cabin windows and a sunroof in the rear give the cockpit an open feeling and improve overall visibility, boasts Flight Design. F2 is available with either a 100-horsepower Rotax 912 iS engine or, for the European market, a 141-hp turbocharged Rotax 915 iS engine (915 presently requires an in-flight adjustable prop not allowed under current U.S. regulations for LSA). Rotax's 912 iS engine delivers excellent fuel economy resulting in a maximum range of about 750 nautical miles for F2 from 34 gallons of fuel onboard. Deliveries of the new model were expected to begin in August 2019. While they will not be bargain-priced, F2 models come well equipped; standard features include AmSafe panel-mounted airbags, three-point inertia-reel harnesses, a ballistic parachute recovery system, and Garmin’s G3X Touch flight display.

Wing cuffs (similar to those on Cirrus aircraft) aid lower speed characteristics.

"Sculpted winglets reduce induced drag, improve climb and cruising range," noted Flight Design spokespersons. "The smooth cantilever strutless wing also reduces drag and allows maximum visibility from the cockpit. The highly optimized airfoil of the F2 allows generous internal volume for the fuel tanks and is also structurally efficient. Aerodynamic features have significantly improved the F2′s stability, control and its overall ease of flying." Pilots used to a full avionics suite should be pleased with the Garmin G3X panel including PFD, EMS and Map functions and a battery backup. With a Garmin GTX 345 transponder F2 is compliant with the FAA’s ADS-B “Out” required by 2020. Options can further outfit an F2. See the entire equipment list and pricing on the company's dedicated F2 page.

Charged Up for Flight

Since the Aero Friedrichshafen show, on June 5, 2019, the first public flight of the Flight Design F2e took place at the Strausberg, Germany airfield using its innovative electric propulsion system.

On its first successful first flight, Flight Design said, "Energy consumption for take-off and cruise was within the expected range, and the temperatures in the system were more positive than expected." Flight Design created F2e with partners Siemens eAircraft, the manufacturer and developer of the propulsion technology, and APUS, a Strausberg-based company specializing in the development and integration of aviation propulsion systems. F2e is based on standard components that are used in the Rotax 912iS-powered version of F2. "Flight Training is one area that generates the best opportunity for improvment in the environment for nature, nearby residents and airfields as noise emissions are concentrated in that one place, the airfield, where future pilots spend a lot of time flying," stated the company.

Flight Design ga CEO Lars Joerges (L) and Siemens eAircraft's Frank Anton show off the electric propulsion unit in F2e.

The propulsion system employs a 55 kW (approximately 75 horsepower) electric direct-drive motor, inverter, and electronic control systems. This propulsion system has already been extensively tested in laboratory and ground tests as well as flight tested for hundreds of flight hours under the supervision of Siemens eAircraft, reported Flight Design. At this time, development of the electric propulsion continues while regulatory bodies around the world decide how they will handle approval of e-powered aircraft. Following is our short video look at F2 as displayed at Aero Friedrichshafen 2019… https://youtu.be/wuUUbP4imNE

Once upon a time in the then-new world of Light-Sport Aircraft Flight Design lead the pack for airplanes delivered and registered. That #1 ranking lasted for a decade. Then came a pause in the juggernaut that is Flight Design, a German company with a popular design. The company’s expenses outran their revenues and a major restructuring was forced upon them by the German legal system. This was 2015 but at Aero Friedrichshafen 2019, the company was looking strong. Their prominent space in Aero’s huge gymnasium-sized exhibit halls was filled with interesting machines, including the distinctive Horten flying wing. All these today operate under the parent name, Lift, which also acquired the Rotorvox deluxe gyroplane. Attracting a lot of attention was their brand-new F-series. Displayed as the first aircraft visitors saw, F2 is an evolved version of the company’s successful CT-series, which remains in active manufacturing.

Light-Sport Aircraft and Sport Pilot Kit Market Shares in 2019

By Dan Johnson || June 8, 2019 4 Comments

A funny thing happened on our way to quarterly reporting of LSA and Sport Pilot kit market shares.

Our first quarterly report in many years should have come about April 1st. It did not. That date came as Sun 'n Fun was getting underway separated by only one day from the German Aero show. So involved were we in those season-starting events that we just blew past the date.

Five Months In Combined Report

The first chart reflects both LSA and SP kit registrations through May of 2019 and also depicts the equivalent performances for the full years of 2017 and 2018. What the chart suggests is that 2019 is a solid year with the light sector on track to hit 725 aircraft for the year, up about 5% over last year and up more than 10% over 2017. For space reasons the chart only shows ranks 1–18 but all are available on Tableau Public.

Digging deeper, the chart shows that longtime market leader Zenith/Zenair lead by a substantial margin in 2017 and 2018 but that gap may be narrowing for 2019. Please keep in mind that a kit company completes a sale long before the aircraft gets registered and appears on FAA's database. Also, a kit sold may never be finished. Conversely, Icon's 27 registrations this year are for ready-to-fly aircraft although that does not mean they were registered by the end customer. The leading LSA builder so far in 2019, Icon is on pace to register 65 aircraft this year, up 38% over last year. American Legend, which operates both in the RTF and kit business, is ticking upwards. They may hit 29 registrations, up 140% over last year. Arion is another both-ways manufacturer looking to have a much improved 2019 while newcomer Vashon should double last year's registrations.

Strong SP kit suppliers include Kitfox, Vans, and Rans — no real surprises but here's a couple observations. Kitfox is on a pace to hit 70 registrations this year, up about 80% over 2018. Van's Aircraft is headed to 60, up 50% over last year. Rans will remain about even. Remember, we only count aircraft that can be flown by a Sport Pilot or a higher-certificated pilot with no medical. Van's, for example, sells many more kits but most won't meet that criteria.

Separating LSA from SP Kits

Flight Design continues its recovery, on pace to increase from last year's low number by 50%. Now that we can separate CubCrafters RTFs from kits, the CT maker is back atop the all-years SLSA rank list. Number two producer, Czech Sport Aircraft should be about even from 2018 but is well off their 2017 registrations. Powrachute and AutoGyro slipped from stronger performances in recent years. On the downside, Glasair suspended production for their Merlin that never found reception in the market.

Looking at cumulative registrations, Zenith/Zenair clearly holds the top spot among Sport Pilot kit aircraft sellers. Rans, Sonex, and Kitfox are the next big producers in the light kit space, followed by Quad City and Just Aircraft, trailed a bit further back by Searey maker Progressive Aerodyne, CubCrafters, and Quicksilver.

One More Thing: ELSA Factor

You might see that kits appear to be the larger enterprise over fully-built LSA. That's correct, but consider the kit companies have been building their business and networks for far longer and they have lower price points …although you obviously must invest a good many hours to complete a project and some will get discouraged along the way and never finish the job.

Yet the real surprise comes when you look at our final chart of this article. Kits appear ascendant since 2013, especially when compared to Special LSA that seems to have found a stable registration rate of around 200 aircraft per year. However, when you combine SLSA with Experimental LSA, you can see that all LSA types number closer to 300 units per year, compared to all SP kits at just shy of 400. Specialty registrations like Experimental Exhibition are steady but at a far smaller unit count.

Any ELSA must be shipped from the factory as a bolt-for-bolt copy of the SLSA model, as required under the regulation. No producer can sell an ELSA without first getting approved for a SLSA, so to my mind, combining SLSA and ELSA makes for a fairer comparison to Sport Pilot kit aircraft. If you love these numbers, please visit Tableau Public. You can learn a lot more about the vibrant light aircraft sector. Enjoy! Disclaimer: These reports rely on FAA’s registration database. We believe this to be a reliable resource but it presents data that are different than what any company reports in sales or deliveries. Over time, these two sets of data draw closer but will not precisely mirror one another. Data presented on Tableau Public are arranged according to a defined method explained on that page (see button labeled “Where the numbers come from”).

A funny thing happened on our way to quarterly reporting of LSA and Sport Pilot kit market shares. Our first quarterly report in many years should have come about April 1st. It did not. That date came as Sun ‘n Fun was getting underway separated by only one day from the German Aero show. So involved were we in those season-starting events that we just blew past the date. Five Months In Combined Report The first chart reflects both LSA and SP kit registrations through May of 2019 and also depicts the equivalent performances for the full years of 2017 and 2018. What the chart suggests is that 2019 is a solid year with the light sector on track to hit 725 aircraft for the year, up about 5% over last year and up more than 10% over 2017. For space reasons the chart only shows ranks 1–18 but all are available on Tableau Public.

Aero Friedrichshafen Day 1 Aircraft Highlights: Zlin Ultra 915, Flight Design F-Series, Belmont

By Dan Johnson || April 10, 2019 5 Comments

Jetting straight from Sun 'n Fun, we were able to arrive at Aero Friedrichshafen by noon on opening day. A quick swing around the most light-aircraft-filled halls (the "B" halls) brought some fresh surprises. Following are a few designs that caught my eye on an initial pass. The profusion of light aircraft we don't see in the USA — some of which will never reach the market — is one of the main reasons Aero Friedrichshafen is my favorite show in Europe. This mostly indoor fair (as Europeans call such shows) always has many ideas of interest. Zlin Ultra with Rotax 915iS — Never one to rest Pascale Russo reintroduced his Ultra Shock from last Aero with the more powerful Rotax 915iS. Ultra Shock plays on the term "ultralight," which means something different in Europe than in the USA (it is a reference to light aircraft quite similar to Light-Sport Aircraft). The use of the term implied a lighter, leaner version of the Shock Cub — renamed Outback Shock in the USA because "Cub" is owned by CubCrafters. Potency is has been increased in the revised Ultra Shock by using the newest and most powerful engine from Rotax, the Austrian company's 915iS. Delivering 135-140 horsepower, the lightened Ultra Shock has become nearly as awesome as the 180 horsepower Titan-powered Shock Cub/Outback Shock. The two likely perform very similarly because the Rotax powerplant is lighter than the Titan even before considering airframe lightening.

Seated inside the F2 from Flight Design. photo by Randee Laskewitz

Flight Design All-New F-Series — You may feel you have not have seen as much of Flight Design since their reorganization but they've assembled an impressive team to make a new family of models titled F2–F2e–F4. Briefly, F2 is a larger, significantly changed follow-on to their CT-series that has sold so well around the world. That series will continue along with entries like CT Super, the "entry-level" model. CTLSi will be in the middle with F2 representing the top-of-the-line A new team of engineering, manufacturing, and flight personnel have dedicated themselves to this and other projects under the corporate umbrella of Lift Air. F2 has many changes, among them losing the stubby appearance (to some eyes) of the CT series. It also addresses the older population that buys new LSA, with doors that are at once wider, taller, and lower, easing entry even more; it was always a turn-around-and-sit proposition. Another literally large change is cabin size. F2 has a voluminous area aft of the two seats; you can carry a lot of payload in this aircraft, weight and balance considered. However, in mentioning this cabin volume, I can segue to F4, the company's planned four-seater project. This is not to replace the company's earlier C4 four seater based on the CT series. The middle number F2e is a reference to an electric propulsion model to follow but reviewed at Aero 2019. Belmont Aero DW200 — With its distinctive canopy slid forward as seen in the nearby photo, this design may not look obviously like its design heritage, but close that canopy and you can easily see the similarity to SportCruiser. That design, first brought to market by the former Czech Aircraft Works, founded by longtime entrepreneur Chip Erwin, has spawned other variations including the current company, Czech Sport Aircraft, that once labeled the model as PiperSport. Another is the very successful Bristell aircraft from BRM Aero although this entry has highly refined many aspects of the design because its creator, Milan Bristela, was associated with the airframe since the very beginning; he and I first met back in 2003 when he was employed at Czech Aircraft Works. As does Bristell, Belmont is available in a retractable version, which is permitted by European regulations. Belmont is using a variety of equipment suppliers. Rotax is the preferred engine but the company also offers the UL Power 350is. The Latvian business, with production in the Czech Republic, offers a wide variety of propellers and other equipment for purchase consideration. Beringer Everywhere — It seems anywhere you look you see Beringer's signature orange finish to their beautiful hardware. That was true at Sun 'n Fun last week and it is even more common this week at Aero Friedrichshafen. The French company is enjoying a strong acceptance for their high quality products. While their wheels and brakes comprise the main thrust Beringer has made into aviation, they also produce a tailwheel option and now a unique shock absorber offering seen nearby fitted to a weight shift trike. From their days in performance equipment for ground-based vehicles, Beringer moved strongly into aviation products and they have done so well — received warmly by many airframe producers — that a couple years ago, they left the auto business and are now focused entirely on aviation. They established a strong U.S. presence and have a base in Greenville, South Carolina (864-214-4274).

Jetting straight from Sun ‘n Fun, we were able to arrive at Aero Friedrichshafen by noon on opening day. A quick swing around the most light-aircraft-filled halls (the “B” halls) brought some fresh surprises. Following are a few designs that caught my eye on an initial pass. The profusion of light aircraft we don’t see in the USA — some of which will never reach the market — is one of the main reasons Aero Friedrichshafen is my favorite show in Europe. This mostly indoor fair (as Europeans call such shows) always has many ideas of interest. Zlin Ultra with Rotax 915iS — Never one to rest Pascale Russo reintroduced his Ultra Shock from last Aero with the more powerful Rotax 915iS. Ultra Shock plays on the term “ultralight,” which means something different in Europe than in the USA (it is a reference to light aircraft quite similar to Light-Sport Aircraft).

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

By Dan Johnson || February 13, 2019 3 Comments

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

First, Simulate — Then, Go Aloft

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

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

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

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

Who Is AeroJones?

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

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

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