SportStar Archives - ByDanJohnson.com

Evektor Aerotechnik SportStar

Website: http://www.evektor.com

Email: sales@evektor.cz

Phone: (420) 572-537-111

Kunovice, -- 686 04 - Czech Republic

U.S. Distributor is Evektor (Dreams Come True)

Website: http://www.midwestsportplanes.com/

Email: midwestsportpilot@gmail.com

Phone: (800) 883-1897

Dayton, OH - USA

Evektor is the LSA More Flight Schools Use — Now Jet Access Joins the Fleet

By Dan Johnson || March 31, 2022 14 Comments

Did you read "Jet Access" and think this article was not for you? I get that but please read further. Jet Access is not about airlines or military. It isn't even about jet engines or biz jets. It is about flight school operations and which aircraft the operators find optimal. Spoiler Alert: Light-Sport Aircraft win. Here's the question of the hour: "Why are leading flight schools world wide choosing Evektor LSA to replace their aging legacy fleet of flight training aircraft?" The question is posed by Evektor's U.S. Director of Fleet Sales, Steve Trerotola. Answers follow…

Evektor Is #1… Forever

You may not have heard quite as much from Evektor over the last couple years. That's because they've been head-down puzzling over America's legal system, a challenge for many foreign producers. Based in a different country, some manufacturers feel insulated from lawsuits but given America is by far the world's largest aviation market, well… it's wise to think differently.

The legal issue is not the subject of this article, but now that the matter has successfully been resolved, the Czech producer is back in action and raring to go. For the three U.S.-based representatives — Steve Minnich's Dreams Come True, or Art Tarola's AB Flight, or Steve Treretola's western dealership, Sunrise Aviation — the cloudy skies have given way to bright sunshine and a warmer climate. One thing no one can ever take away from Evektor is their #1 position as the first Light-Sport Aircraft ever to be accepted by FAA seventeen years ago at Sun 'n Fun 2005. Evektor and Flight Design, with the SportStar and CT respectively, were the first two LSA accepted at an opening day ceremony and Evektor was the very first. Starting almost immediately, Evektor proved to be a winner in flight school operations and that success obviously continues.

Big New Order Logged

Recently, Evektor in the USA booked an order for a dozen new Evektor Harmony LSA with the potential for as many as 100 more. Such numbers in Light-Sport aviation are more than attention-getting. This is a big order. Good for Evektor but good for all in the LSA community. Stronger manufacturers means better service and more innovation for all customers.

Jet Access began as a jet-share organization but realized that building their flight school operation was a worthy path to follow. Anyone paying attention to an impending pilot shortage is already aware of this potential. This Indiana company runs established flight schools and has plans to acquire more. "They plan to equip all these with Evektor aircraft, which they've seen as a great training aircraft that produces better pilots quicker and costs much less to operate than brand new or legacy GA designs," said Steve Treretola. "We'll also have some interesting news at Sun 'n Fun," predicted Art Tarola. As the season-opening show begins, make your way to Evektor's display near the turf runway in Paradise City (space LP-001) to learn more. John Mauch, Jet Access' Chief Flight Instructor and Director of Operations said, "We are the 10th largest charter in the world based on flight hours. Jet Access is the only vertically integrated aviation enterprise at a national scale. We do charter, Part 91 jet management, brokerage, FBO management, full service Part 145 MRO, Part 61 and 141 flight training with collegiate program management." "Headquartered in Indianapolis, Jet Access has chosen Evektor for the same reason organizations have chosen primary trainers for the last 100 years: they are two-place, light and frisky, durable, easy-to-fly and maintain, with a high dispatch rate, plus low fuel burn and operating costs," explained west coast rep', Steve Treretola.

"The Evektors are technically advanced aircraft with glass cockpits and autopilots," echoed John. He added, "This prepares our students for modern piloting that improves safety, while still focusing on stick and rudder skills due to flight characteristics of the Evektors. They’re also larger inside than legacy trainers with far better visibility and cabin airflow." With airplanes Jet Access has on order for Q3 2022 delivery, they will operate about 80 aircraft, the company elaborated. John Mauch is an ATP instructor with experience in Cessna, Piper, and Cirrus models. He instructed for Larry Gehrig's Sport Pilot Chicago for three years. "After flying Evektors John had no desire to return to the previous 'standard' flight school aircraft," said Steve Minnich of Evektor dealer Dreams Come True. Sport Pilot Chicago continues seven-day-a-week operation with three Evektors: a Sportstar, Sportstar SL, and a Harmony.

"The Evektor fleet has amassed over one million flight hours," Steve Treretola added. "Evektor is built using traditional metal construction, has a fuel burn of four gallons per hour, and has a 2,000-hour engine TBO making it an ideal 21st century successor to the famous trainers of the past including the ubiquitous Cessna 150 and 152 plus the Piper Cherokee series." Treretola observed that Jet Access chief pilot, John Mauch has amassed several thousand hours instructing in Evektor Harmony and knows the brand well. "With that experience, Jet Access felt comfortable placing an initial order for a dozen Harmony aircraft and has optioned a total of 100 [with delivery] spread out over a number of years," Steve reported.

About Evektor Harmony

"Evektor currently has delivered 1,400 LSA worldwide," Steve noted, adding that "half of them are in flight schools or aero clubs." The balance are owned by individuals, he said.

Why are Evektor models so popular in flight schools? It might not be what you think, given that nearly all pilots trained in American schools over the last half century have learned on yoke-equipped aircraft. "These are great stick and rudder platforms," Steve Treretola explained. "They create good pilots." Properly equipped, Evektor's LSA can qualify as TAA, or Technically Advanced Aircraft, and are thereby suitable for not only primary but instrument and commercial training. Evektor is a leading design, engineering and aircraft manufacturing group from the Czech Republic. It has become one of the world´s most recognized manufacturers of Light-Sport Aircraft whose factory in the south of Czech has been in aircraft production since 1936. It makes sales in 40 countries and employs a staff 400 people.

Evektor has gone far beyond LSA with their four seat Super Cobra (nearby photo) developed some years ago and a twin-engine turboprop regional airliner called EV-55 Outback. These are far outside my coverage of aviation but show the depth of experience and knowledge within Evektor. Years ago I visited their factory in Kunovice, Czech to see them building the SportStar LSA. It was an impressive facility and the region is highly aviation oriented so an abundance of talented workers is available. Evektor is also very active in design and development work for the automotive industry. I hope to see you at Sun 'n Fun 2022 coming in mere days as this is written. If you can't make it, stay tuned to this website and I'll do my best to keep you informed. Watch for a preview article coming soon…

Did you read “Jet Access” and think this article was not for you? I get that but please read further. Jet Access is not about airlines or military. It isn’t even about jet engines or biz jets. It is about flight school operations and which aircraft the operators find optimal. Spoiler Alert: Light-Sport Aircraft win. Here’s the question of the hour: “Why are leading flight schools world wide choosing Evektor LSA to replace their aging legacy fleet of flight training aircraft?” The question is posed by Evektor’s U.S. Director of Fleet Sales, Steve Trerotola. Answers follow… Evektor Is #1… Forever You may not have heard quite as much from Evektor over the last couple years. That’s because they’ve been head-down puzzling over America’s legal system, a challenge for many foreign producers. Based in a different country, some manufacturers feel insulated from lawsuits but given America is by far the world’s largest aviation market, well… it’s wise to think differently.

Do Light-Sport Aircraft Make Good Trainers …or Do They Not? That Is the Question.

By Dan Johnson || May 15, 2019 6 Comments

One of the controversies surrounding Light-Sport Aircraft has to do with that first word: "light." Early on, one aircraft importer lobbied to remove the word as it was negatively viewed, he believed. Article updated (5/17/19) with newly released video with Sunrise Aviation owner, Mike Church (see below).

Indeed, outside of the LSA world, many pilots I've spoken to believe these aircraft are too lightly built to hold up in flight training, one of the most demanding of all flight activities. "Yes, an experienced pilot may love a LSA," they may concede, "but these aircraft cannot hold up to regular flight instruction duty." Enthusiasts may be biased but what would an actual flight school operator say? To get it straight from the horse's mouth, I inquired of Sunrise Aviation. This substantial flight school has for more than 40 years operated out of the very busy John Wayne airport in Orange County, California. They previously relied on Cessnas for primary flight instruction and hesitantly entered the LSA space with a single Evektor SportStar. How do they feel now, ten years later?

Flight School Owner

Sunrise was founded and is personally supervised by Michael Church, a national flight training authority, honored by the FAA as Safety Counselor of the Year and recognized as a Master Flight Instructor and Master Aerobatic Flight Instructor. Church has logged more than 11,000 hours of flight instruction given. What does he have to say about his experience with LSA?

photo by Stephen Trerotola

"It was obvious that LSA was going to potentially revolutionize flight training by reducing expense." Mike acquired his first Evektor in 2009, only five years after LSA burst on the aviation scene. Sunrise trains to all levels, even including aerobatics, so pilots that start in LSA may transition later. Mike wondered how Sunrise students would proceed after primary training in LSA and afterward moving to larger aircraft. "SportStar is perfect. It is a great training vehicle and the transition to larger aircraft seems to be very straightforward." Mike amplified, "Flight instructors like it because it is really a great training airplane. The best trainers are light, small, maneuverable, frisky. The quicker the airplane makes the student aware of a problem, the quicker the student will recognize a maneuver that didn't look right, the easier it is to get the student involved with fixing the problem. From the flight instructor's view, it simply makes the job easier."

Experience — Then and Now

Any owner can get jazzed about an airplane he or she recently bought. The excitement of a new purchase can overwhelm the pragmatic aspects of longer-term ownership. Here are Mike Church's thoughts six years ago, in 2013. Later on, we'll update his perceptions.

photo by Stephen Trerotola

"Cost of operation has proven to be the single biggest value." That was very important to this businessman. He specified fuel use was so much lower than what his schools was used to with Cessna 150s and 172s. Since 1978 avgas has only gotten more expensive. Lower fuel cost seems obvious, perhaps, yet endurance of the airframe is one of the problems regular GA pilots note. "Apparently the low inertia and light weight means they don't break very much," Mike observed. In just four years, he reported reaching engine overhaul in two airplanes, logging more than 2,000 hours in each. "We had very few problems." Way back then, Mike felt, "This is the training airplane to which Sunrise is now committed." So he liked Evektor. What about the Rotax engine those models use?

photo by Stephen Trerotola

Mike noted that his earlier aircraft went through four overhauls of their Lycoming engines. He became very confident with them. In 2013, Sunrise was still acquiring time with Rotax and Mike considered the trial ongoing but added, "to date, the Rotax engines have been remarkably trouble free." And now? In the six years since, he has become an even bigger advocate of Rotax powerplants. By January of 2019, he reported, "We now have a fleet of five Evektor [both SportStar and Harmony models], and we have accumulated more than 18,000 hours of experience on the airframes and engines." "I can say now with great assurance that the Rotax has proved to be a remarkable piece of machinery. Low cost of operation. Low cost of maintenance. I'm a fan!" Moving from Rotax to other engines means students must learn some new tasks, such as operating mixture control, but he concluded, "This is relatively simple [training] stuff to teach."

How about Mechanics?

A flight school owner might be expected to be positive about purchase he made. What happens when Sunrise mechanics are asked about their views of Evektor airframes and Rotax powerplants?

Sunrise mechanic Matt Wilderman is an A&P with Inspection Authorization. He relates experience since 2009. "I've never worked with an airplane that demanded so little maintenance. It's mostly been tires and brakes. We've had no major airframe issues and very minor engine issues." He enthusiastically added, "If you keep on top of them, they've been fantastically reliable, more so than any other airplane I've worked on." How does Matt feel about Rotax? "They've also been fantastic. I've never worked with a better aircraft engine." To clarify, Matt added, "We change the spark plugs, the oil, and the filters every 50 hours. Even running avgas we've had no problems with leading that some people have reported. In 2,000 hours we replaced one small spring on the sprague clutch; that's it." "We've had no lubrication issues, no ignition issues. I had questions at first, but despite hard use by students, the engines have held up exceptionally well. Most squawks that I've received have been indicators; it always seems to be the sensor but today even those problems appear to be resolved." "The airframes are so light that you don't see a lot of wear," Matt continued, and in so saying he turns the "light" problem upside down to become a positive. "They just haven't been breaking. I have nothing but praise for the whole LSA program."

What Do Instructors Think?

Instructor don't own the equipment nor must they repair it. Here's a sampling of what various Sunrise instructors say. "SportStar is excellent for training. It has nice control responses."

photo by Stephen Trerotola

"My students love flying this [Evektor]. It's so easy to fly." They relate the students are comfortable in the airplane. "Visibility absolutely unrestricted" and their students like that. "The view is amazing." "The climb performance that Evektor provides us is incredible." Evektor has proven very cost effective. "You only spend about twenty bucks on fuel," said another CFI, referring to the cost of providing a flight lesson. When a Master CFI and owner/operator of a Part 141 flight school talks this way after a decade of experience, it would seem to carry more heft than your average Private Pilot. After building 18,000 hours of total time on a fleet of five Evektor LSA over 10 years experience, Sunrise Aviation remains committed to Evektor Light-Sport Aircraft for primary flight training. Added 5/17/19 — Listen to Sunrise Aviation owner, Mike Church tell you in his own words about his experience with Light-Sport Aircraft as training aircraft in his busy flight school. https://youtu.be/OLd720HCYhU Want more? Here is our flight review of the Evektor Harmony shot at DeLand Showcase 2017: https://youtu.be/nsxFl45FjQw

One of the controversies surrounding Light-Sport Aircraft has to do with that first word: “light.” Early on, one aircraft importer lobbied to remove the word as it was negatively viewed, he believed. Article updated (5/17/19) with newly released video with Sunrise Aviation owner, Mike Church (see below). Indeed, outside of the LSA world, many pilots I’ve spoken to believe these aircraft are too lightly built to hold up in flight training, one of the most demanding of all flight activities. “Yes, an experienced pilot may love a LSA,” they may concede, “but these aircraft cannot hold up to regular flight instruction duty.” Enthusiasts may be biased but what would an actual flight school operator say? To get it straight from the horse’s mouth, I inquired of Sunrise Aviation. This substantial flight school has for more than 40 years operated out of the very busy John Wayne airport in Orange County, California.

Evektor Approvals in Europe (EASA) and China (CAAC)

By Dan Johnson || February 27, 2018 Leave a Comment

Forever, Evektor will remain the very first Special Light-Sport Aircraft approved by the FAA, beating Flight Design's CT series by a small margin. Both were the first SLSA ever accepted* by FAA and that will never change. Just like in the Olympics, it's good to come in first. People remember. More recently, Evektor continued their prowess at gaining the seal of approval from regulatory authorities, and in two other regions besides the USA. If you've ever inspected a SportStar or Harmony, you might quickly see why the Czech company keeps passing the test; they produce some beautiful aircraft.

EASA Approval

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) recently certified* Evektor's SportStar RTC — which the company calls its "training aircraft" — with the popular Garmin G3X Touch Glass Cockpit, reported Evektor. G3X Touch is a digital integrated avionics system built with a native infrared touchscreen interface. G3X offers advanced capabilities including synthetic vision technology with terrain and obstacle alerting, detailed moving map, and advanced air traffic information. SportStar RTC G3X Touch is equipped with two 10.6-inch G3X displays offering dual Air Data and Attitude and Heading Reference System (ADAHRS) and Engine Monitoring System (EMS). SportStar RTC further includes a Garmin GNC 255 Nav/Com radio and a Garmin GTX328 transponder. The Kansas company's Aera 500 is optional. The first SportStar RTC so wonderfully equipped will be delivered to Aeroklub Montpelier in France this February with a second in March. Evektor reported having another 10 such aircraft in production. "SportStar RTC enjoys growing popularity among flight training organizations and air clubs globally," stated the company.

CAAC Approval

In September 2017, a team of the inspectors from the Certification Division of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) audited Evektor with focus on production of details and assembly, storage processes, material flow, and design organization support. A CAAC audit team reviewed quality systems throughout the factory located in the south of the Czech Republic, an area rich with aviation enterprises.

"Evektor delivers to China its CAAC Certified Light Sport Aircraft SportStar SL that enjoys growing popularity among the air clubs on the Chinese market," said the company. "A regular CAAC audit reconfirmed Evektor is in full compliance with all CAAC requirements for further deliveries of SportStar SL to the Chinese market." Evektor has now been “quality audited by the CAAC of China together with aviation production certified by Czech Civil Aviation Authority and the European EASA according to Part 21 … [proving] the basis for the quality of Evektor aircraft”, stated Jaromír Matuška, Quality Manager of Evektor-Aerotechnik. In the USA, Evektor is represented by Art Tarola and his A-B Flight company and by Steve Minnich's Dreams Come True company. Evektor-Aerotechnik boasts almost 50 years experience in aircraft production and has a fleet of 1,300+ aircraft operating in 50 countries. * In the case of EASA and CAAC "certified" may be the correct term, but in the USA, Special Light-Sport Aircraft are not "certified." Instead they are "accepted" by FAA. This differentiates SLSA from Type Certified models, such as those created by Cirrus or Cessna.

Forever, Evektor will remain the very first Special Light-Sport Aircraft approved by the FAA, beating Flight Design’s CT series by a small margin. Both were the first SLSA ever accepted* by FAA and that will never change. Just like in the Olympics, it’s good to come in first. People remember. More recently, Evektor continued their prowess at gaining the seal of approval from regulatory authorities, and in two other regions besides the USA. If you’ve ever inspected a SportStar or Harmony, you might quickly see why the Czech company keeps passing the test; they produce some beautiful aircraft. EASA Approval The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) recently certified* Evektor’s SportStar RTC — which the company calls its “training aircraft” — with the popular Garmin G3X Touch Glass Cockpit, reported Evektor. G3X Touch is a digital integrated avionics system built with a native infrared touchscreen interface.

Evektor — EPOS Electric SportStar (2013)

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

Evektor's SportStar was the very first to win Special LSA approval and the company since established a long tradition of constantly updating the design (see all our coverage to follow this). The latest, which company designers thought was just a demonstration project, is EPOS, an electric powered version of SportStar. The idea was so well received, they sold 10 at the Aero 2013 show. Here you can see our interview about the details of the electric installation.

Evektor’s SportStar was the very first to win Special LSA approval and the company since established a long tradition of constantly updating the design (see all our coverage to follow this). The latest, which company designers thought was just a demonstration project, is EPOS, an electric powered version of SportStar. The idea was so well received, they sold 10 at the Aero 2013 show. Here you can see our interview about the details of the electric installation.

Evektor — Harmony and Sportstar (2012)

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

Evektor is, was, and always will be the very first Special LSA to earn an FAA airworthiness certificate in the United States. But this company has not rested on those noteworthy laurels. Evektor and their U.S. representatives, Dreams Come True and AB Flight, have continually upgraded the airplane. In this video Art Tarola details some new offerings announced at AirVenture 2012 to help flight schools acquire and maintain the SportStar or Harmony.

4 LSA Brands — Low Wing All-Metal

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

At the 2010 Midwest LSA Expo we did something new. We picked several aircraft of a similar description and pointed out their similarities and differences. This time we look at four all-metal high wing LSA: Rans Aircraft S-19 Venterra; Evektor Sportstar Max IFR, Van's Aircraft RV-12, and the Breezer Aircraft Breezer II. If you're searching for a high wing LSA, this video may help show your choices and help you make a purchase decision.

At the 2010 Midwest LSA Expo we did something new. We picked several aircraft of a similar description and pointed out their similarities and differences. This time we look at four all-metal high wing LSA: Rans Aircraft S-19 Venterra; Evektor Sportstar Max IFR, Van’s Aircraft RV-12, and the Breezer Aircraft Breezer II. If you’re searching for a high wing LSA, this video may help show your choices and help you make a purchase decision.

Evektor — Sportstar Max

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

Without changing the model designation -- it's always been the Sportstar -- Evektor has steadily evolved their all-metal low-wing aircraft. The model was the #1 aircraft to win SLSA approval, a distinction it retains forever, yet it changed to address customer interests. In this video we review some of the changes to the Max version, with its much-smoother exterior; see our other Sportstar videos for more info.

Without changing the model designation — it’s always been the Sportstar — Evektor has steadily evolved their all-metal low-wing aircraft. The model was the #1 aircraft to win SLSA approval, a distinction it retains forever, yet it changed to address customer interests. In this video we review some of the changes to the Max version, with its much-smoother exterior; see our other Sportstar videos for more info.

Evektor — SportStar Plus

By Dan Johnson || August 19, 2016 Leave a Comment

Evektor is the No. 1 brand in the LSA fleet, and it earns that title by being number one to earn SLSA approval back in April 2005. It's also one of the most well-used LSA in flight schools around the country. Now, they are selling their new Max model, with several desirable enhancements and features like toe brakes.

Evektor is the No. 1 brand in the LSA fleet, and it earns that title by being number one to earn SLSA approval back in April 2005. It’s also one of the most well-used LSA in flight schools around the country. Now, they are selling their new Max model, with several desirable enhancements and features like toe brakes.

Two LSA Manufacturers Score Overseas

By Dan Johnson || November 18, 2015 Leave a Comment

American readers of ByDanJohnson.com may be surprised to hear that more than a third of all visitors are from outside the United States. In a related fact, America has more pilots than any other country (very roughly half of the world aviator population) but more light aircraft are sold in other country by a ratio of around 10:1. These figures are fuzzy for a number of reasons but the point is that for LSA, the world is their market. That statement is further proven by two recent successes. Evektor reported it successfully passed the audit of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) for production at the company's Kunovice, Czech Republic plant. "CAAC's audit team inspected the production facilities of Evektor-Aerotechnik focused on quality assurance, engineering and manufacturing, and quality inspections of fixed wing light sport aircraft," said Evektor. This Czech company — the first to obtain FAA acceptance back in 2005 — was able to prove compliance with CAAC requirements for Light-Sport Aircraft, meaning Evektor is fully authorized by the CAAC for deliveries of SportStar SL aircraft to the Chinese market. While not required by Evektor's U.S. representatives, it represents further bragging rights about the design and its manufacturing processes. "The Quality Management System audited by the CAAC of China [in concert] with the FAA and the European EASA Part 21 Design & Production Organization Approvals represents the continuous compliance of Evektor's Quality Management System with the highest general aviation quality standards and is the basis for the high quality of Evektor's aircraft," stated Jaromír Matu|ka, Quality Manager of Evektor-Aerotechnik. Slovenian LSA builder Pipistrel claimed to have signed the largest single-point contract for delivery of 194 of their Virus SW models to the Indian Armed Forces. The model will be called SW80 Garud for use by the Indian military. Garud is a bird from Hindu mythology. Pipistrel reportedly beat ten other competitors for the contract. The Garuds will be used to train cadets of India's Air Force, Navy and National Cadet Corps spread across 100 locations in the country. Deliveries are to begin in eight months with the contract specifying that Pipistrel must deliver all 194 aircraft within 30 months of the first. Upon learning of their victory, Team Pipistrel must have celebrated enthusiastically but nearly 200 aircraft over two and a half years is a serious order, especially as the contract stipulates spare engines, ground support equipment and tools, 10 years of product support, plus training for aircrew, instructors, and technical staff. Garud aircraft will be powered by the 80 horsepower version of the Rotax 912 engine, which Pipistrel claims will provide a cruise speed of 133 knots with fuel consumption of only 3.6 gallons per hour. To achieve such speed and fuel economy infers an in-flight adjustable pitch prop. Garud is to be built for operation from semi-prepared surfaces and will include a ballistic parachute rescue system, digital avionics, energy-absorbing seats and a Kevlar-reinforced cockpit. After two years of intense negotiation, some experts see challenges. One wrote, "Doing business with the Indian government, with all their red tape, bureaucracy and corruption makes for tough duty." Penalties for non-compliance may be substantial and our expert noted, "The Indian government will find areas of non-compliance. Further, he supposed Pipistrel had to cut their margins to earn the contract. Finally, "A contract for six or seven aircraft per month may soak up their production for other markets." Congratulations to Evektor and Pipistrel for these accomplishments!

Germany’s Top 10 Ultralights by Aerokurier

By Dan Johnson || September 26, 2014 8 Comments

Much of what we hear and know about airplane populations is centered on America. Yet in the world of sport and recreational aviation, the rest of the world equates to at least a 1:1 relationship, that is, for every American aircraft flying, many experts agree another flies internationally. It may be more significant than that ... consider Germany. In mid-August, our friends at Aerokurier, Germany's leading aviation magazine, assembled an article about the top 10 ultralights in that country. A European ultralight, as you may know, is not the same as an American ultralight that is today limited to a single seat and no more than 254 pounds of empty weight. In Germany and elsewhere around the European Union, "ultralight" refers to an airplane much like a U.S. Light-Sport but limited in weight to 472.5 kilograms or 1,041 pounds. Originally the weight limit had been 450 kilograms or 992 pounds but because emergency airframe parachutes are mandatory in Germany the weight was increased a few years ago to cover this component. In the following article, we present Aerokurier's article translated by computer and edited for English readers. Any errors from the original are ours. Following Aerokurier's description is our added commentary. We hope you enjoy this glance at the very active sport flying community in Germany. We'll do this in style of TV host David Letterman's Top-10, starting with #10 and working up to #1. According to sanctioned organizations (DaEC & DULV) tasked with administrating and registering ultralights in Germany, 2,257 airplanes comprise the country's Top-10. This number is equivalent to our market share charts that show entire fleet size over the life of the category. The numbers below do not describe annual sales.

#10 — Evektor Eurostar (94 flying) — Built by Evektor in Kunovice, Czech Republic, Eurostar is a versatile all-metal low-wing aircraft recommended for travel, training, and towing. Regular model updates ensure that the Eurostar does not look old today. Under the model name Sportstar RTC, the aircraft is also available as EASA-certified LSA [under EU rules called CS-LSA]. |||| Americans know Sportstar and now Harmony as a leading LSA company ranked at #9. Sportstar was the very first LSA to win FAA acceptance back in 2005. This highly refined aircraft has worked well as a trainer and a cross country traveler.

#9 — AeroSpool Dynamic (97 flying) — It's fast and belongs to the ultralight beauties at the sky. Built in Slovakia WT9 Dynamic is the epitome of a sporty composite low-wing monoplane. Capable of more than 200 km/h (125 mph) it excels at cross country flying, is comfortable, and can even tow gliders. Dynamic's flight characteristics are exemplary processing. |||| Dynamic in fixed gear form has some U.S. models flying but after Sport Aircraft Works left the business sales slowed to a stop and it never entered the Top-20 of the American LSA market.

#8 — P92 (147 flying) — Tecnam supplies the P92, a real bestseller. The all-metal high wing is offered in several variants [including floatplane and taildragger]. These products range from the spartan-equipped light version for schools and clubs through to one fitted for luxurious airplane travel. One thing they all have in common: their flight characteristics are perfectly smooth and its structure is considered indestructible. |||| Italian giant Tecnam has sold P92 for 25 years and has examples all over the world. The company, with multiple LSA accepted by FAA, is ranked #6 in the American LSA market though that does not include their certified Twin that uses a pair of Rotax 912s. In early 2014, Tecnam opened a facility in Sebring, Florida along with an customer-friendly deposit program (only 10% due until delivery is ready) that seems sure to increase their market position.

#7 — Kiebitz (151 flying) — The biplane from designer Michael Platzer has a huge following in Germany. Hardly any other ultralight gives so much fun flying in an open cockpit. To win this jewel, owners must either build it or seek one from the used market. Only plans and individual parts are offered, however, for many the effort is worthwhile. |||| Kiebitz has no U.S. market presence yet given the interest in vintage designs like the many Cubalikes, perhaps some interest can develop. On the other hand, Americans already have many choices in the world of homebuilt vintage aircraft so we may never see a Kiebitz in the USA.

#6 — Remos GX (166 flying) — Remos Aircraft started in the mid-1990s with the introduction of its composite high wing G-3 that became popular with many ultralight pilots. Professionally produced and easy to fly this ultralight earned an excellent reputation in the industry. Several years ago, the company offered an updated GX version, which was proceeding toward European LSA approval [a more complicated and costly process than in the USA]. After a difficult time in recent years, production restarted in 2013. |||| Even after stalling badly following a tremendous promotional push, Remos still owns the #7 spot in the American LSA ranking, although reports of added financial challenge continue to dog the company. The airplane was marketed more heavily than any other LSA brand and won many happy customers.

#5 — FK 9 (202 flying) — With the FK 9 Peter and his father Otto Funk [who died in 2014] presented their first FK 9 at Aero 1989 as one of the first "cabin class" ultralights replacing earlier aircraft that were far more basic. Today, the high wing is a model of success that is enjoys great popularity with many clubs and flight schools in Germany. New model innovations ensure continued success in the market. Older models are on the second hand market remain extremely popular. Today, the aircraft is built by FK-Lightplanes in Poland. |||| FK 9 enjoys market presence and current representation by Hansen Air Group in the USA. Another popular model from this company is the folding-biwing aerobat, FK 12 Comet, and coming from FK Lightplanes and Hansen will be a rather fantastic 70% replica of the P-51 Mustang (video) that you have to see to believe; the detail work is simply amazing.

#4 — C22 (229 flying) — Germany's ultralight classic C22 has a loyal following to this day. Since the 1980s the model has stayed on the market and many still authorized aircraft remain active. From today's perspective, flight characteristics and comfort may seem rather spartan, but real ultralight fans love the original flying with the proven tube & Dacron construction from Comco Ikarus based in the south of Germany. [Note that Comco Ikarus also owns the #1 position in the market making this company Germany's clear leader after many years.] |||| No C22s are flying in the USA, nor has the German market leading C42 found many customers. The C22 is very similar to the Flightstar line popular for years in the USA and this entry in Germany's Top-10 listing is the only one faintly resembling what Yankees think of as an American ultralight. No attempt has been made to enter the U.S. with C22 and it probably would not succeed as we have a number of roughly comparable models.

#3 — CTLS (243 flying) — From generation to generation the CT series from Flight Design has become better. This cantilevered high wing, all-composite monoplane has established itself as a mature aircraft for travel, training, and glider towing. Thanks to the extra wide cabin and large fuel tanks, lengthy cross country flights are a pleasure. In both USA and in Europe as an EASA-certified holder of a Restricted Type Certificate (RTC), CT is a successful LSA with 600 kg (1,320 pound) maximum gross weight. |||| You know this one in the USA as the longtime and always market leader. Since the beginning of LSA in 2004, Flight Design's CT2K, CTSW, CTLS, and CTLSi have held the largest single market share, currently ranked #1 with 359 in our most recent market share report. At #3 in Germany and #1 in the USA plus a growing presence in China, the company enjoys a strong position.

#2 — MTO Sport (346 flying) — This gyroplane is a case of the right product at the right time. In 2004, when the first MT-03 was first built, CEO Otmar Birkner had no idea he would trigger a surprising boom with gyroplanes. Many pilots love to be in the open cockpit feel the wind in your hair and to experience the flying dynamics of an autogyro. Today AutoGyro from the north of Germany is the world's leader in the gyro business. The MT-03 and its successor MTO Sport end up together in second place in Germany's registration statistics. |||| AutoGyro and other gyro providers operate in America but as FAA cannot seem to overcome their own rules, these popular planes must be built as Experimental Amateur Built (the 51% rule). If FAA ever catches up with the trend, look for more gyros to be flying as Americans seems to like the fully enclosed two seaters in tandem and side by side form. Rotax reports that gyroplanes are the #1 buyers of Rotax 912 of any aircraft type in the world.

#1 — C42 (582 flying) — Germany's most popular ultralight comes from the south of Germany. C42 by Comco Ikarus secures first place with 582 licensed copies of this tube & Dacron, high wing monoplane. It has been refined repeatedly over the years and currently the manufacturer produces three versions: C42A, C42B and C42C. The aircraft is very easy to use and is widely used by flying clubs and their flight schools. |||| The clear king of ultralights in Germany has 70% more aircraft registered than the number two producer and represents more than 25% of Germany's Top-10, a stronger position than even the top two U.S. LSA producers put together. While Comco Ikarus has attempted to gain an American foothold, exhibiting at big events such as AirVenture in past years, the company has never found either the right representation nor market reception, though admittedly the U.S. market is crowded with great competition for customer attention. As you can see, the Germany and American markets have their differences but also enjoy great similarity. Germany is one of the very strongest light aircraft markets outside the U.S., trailed in approximate order by the Czech Republic, France, Britain, Spain, Italy and others. The American market remains the world's largest for light aircraft of all types, but in the world of sport and recreation is closely trailed by other countries.

Evektor with Dynon Earns EASA Type Certificate

By Dan Johnson || July 23, 2014 Leave a Comment

This older SportStar (with Canadian registration) features LAMA founder Larry Burke in the Pilot-in-Command seat.

The very first aircraft ever to receive approval in the USA as a Light-Sport Aircraft is Evektor-Aerotechnik's SportStar. No challenger can ever take away that title yet the company has continually developed this pioneeering airplane and recently achieved a new level of approval ... one that alters the landscape in a way I predict we'll see more as FAA's Part 23 rewrite project progresses. "Following several months of certification process EASA has approved glass cockpit Dynon SkyView [as] SportStar RTC," Evektor announced. RTC stands for Restricted Type Certificate. It is not identical the U.S. Part 23 Type Certificate — representing a somewhat lower level of government oversight — but a company earning this has to jump through many regulatory hoops. "SportStar RTC has become the first EASA certified aircraft approved with the SkyView glass cockpit [by proving] compliance with certification requirements of the EASA CS-LSA regulations. Dynon's SkyView, recently upgraded to permit touch functionality, is widely known and used on Light-Sport Aircraft. The first SportStar RTC with Dynon's SkyView will be delivered to France [and put into service by] Air Club Les Alcyons, one of the biggest clubs in the Paris area. Along with gear from Dynon and Garmin, Evektor said, "The aircraft will have also Apple's i-Pad Mini installed, bringing extended convenience and functionality in the cockpit." All these components from LSA stalwarts Dynon and Garmin are increasingly paired with Apple's ubiquitous tablet computer used in many industries and widely employed throughout all levels of aviation from airliners to ultralights. "With the advanced SkyView glass cockpit, ballistic recovery system, low operating costs and excellent training platform the SportStar RTC represents the most innovative solution for air clubs and pilot training organizations on the global market today," added Evektor. A top-ranked supplier to the U.S. market Evektor also does well overseas, reporting more than 1,300 aircraft have been delivered. Evektor has solid American representation through Dreams Come True and AB Flight. As everyone headed to Oshkosh for AirVenture 2014 finalizes their packing and preparations, one historically significant Light-Sport Aircraft is doing likewise and may, just possibly, appear at the space EAA has provided for the 10th Anniversary Celebration of SP/LSA. Evektor owner, E. W. Rogers wrote to offer this: "I am flying a SportStar to Oshkosh this year ... it is the first one sold in USA, and has about 800 maintenance-free hours on it." At the EAA space near the newly renamed Boeing Plaza, look for the special EAA space, which will have at least 17 aircraft on display, including most leading brands of Special LSA plus weight shift, powered parachute, gyroplanes, and some "vintage" aircraft that Sport Pilots may fly. ••• Those going to Oshkosh may also want to attend a forum about the decade-old sector on Tuesday July 29th from 1:00 to 2:15 PM in Honda Forum Pavilion 7. The presentation will feature EAA boss Jack Pelton; FAA honcho Earl Lawrence; original FAA rule writer Ron Wojnar; industry leader Tom Peghiny of Flight Design USA; Rotax engine expert Eric Tucker; FAA Sport Pilot specialist Mark Giron; and ... yours truly.

The very first aircraft ever to receive approval in the USA as a Light-Sport Aircraft is Evektor-Aerotechnik’s SportStar. No challenger can ever take away that title yet the company has continually developed this pioneeering airplane and recently achieved a new level of approval … one that alters the landscape in a way I predict we’ll see more as FAA’s Part 23 rewrite project progresses. “Following several months of certification process EASA has approved glass cockpit Dynon SkyView [as] SportStar RTC,” Evektor announced. RTC stands for Restricted Type Certificate. It is not identical the U.S. Part 23 Type Certificate — representing a somewhat lower level of government oversight — but a company earning this has to jump through many regulatory hoops. “SportStar RTC has become the first EASA certified aircraft approved with the SkyView glass cockpit [by proving] compliance with certification requirements of the EASA CS-LSA regulations. Dynon’s SkyView, recently upgraded to permit touch functionality, is widely known and used on Light-Sport Aircraft.

Evektor Successfully Passes LSA Audit for China

By Dan Johnson || December 2, 2013 Leave a Comment

photo by James Lawrence

Members of the CAAC audit team pose with Evektor's quality managers photo courtesy Evektor

photo by James Lawrence

The rush is on — hardly a surprise to anyone these days — regarding China's emergence into general or recreational aviation. Investors in the country are buying iconic aviation brands with increasing frequency it seems and more companies in the LSA space are rushing to join the party. They join a growing flock of home-grown producers (see earlier report). No wonder. With China's economic growth, new freedom to fly at least in some airspace, and keen interest in flying one's own airplane, the business possibilities appear large. While established countries remain mired in economic sluggishness, China's star shines brightly. Add those factors to the much lower price of purchasing a Light-Sport Aircraft and you can see why companies are jumping on the bandwagon. The newest company to succeed in gaining Chinese approval is Evektor and their SportStar LSA models. The Czech company reported, "Evektor successfully passed an audit by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) at its production plant in Kunovice, Czech Republic." Chinese auditors focused on quality assurance and inspections as well as Continued Operational Safety Monitoring. These key safety areas are subject to close review by FAA as well and indeed Evektor has also successfully completed audits by U.S. auditors and those from EASA in the last year. "It means Evektor is fully approved by CAAC for further deliveries of Light-Sport Aircraft to the Chinese market," the company concluded. Congratulations, Evektor! "In August 2012 Evektor gained type certification from CAAC for its worldwide popular pilot training and leisure flying SportStar aircraft, which had become the very first FAA approved aircraft in the US LSA category," observed Petr Javorsky, Executive Director of Evektor-Aerotechnik (second from left in nearby photo). Since Evektor has both a CAAC production certification and SportStar type certification, the company meets all the requirements of the CAAC for importation of the SportStar to China. Now a new task begins: expanding marketing activities in China and searching for sales partners in the country. Evektor has aircraft flying in more than 40 countries and some 1,200 Evektor aircraft have been delivered.

The rush is on — hardly a surprise to anyone these days — regarding China’s emergence into general or recreational aviation. Investors in the country are buying iconic aviation brands with increasing frequency it seems and more companies in the LSA space are rushing to join the party. They join a growing flock of home-grown producers (see earlier report). No wonder. With China’s economic growth, new freedom to fly at least in some airspace, and keen interest in flying one’s own airplane, the business possibilities appear large. While established countries remain mired in economic sluggishness, China’s star shines brightly. Add those factors to the much lower price of purchasing a Light-Sport Aircraft and you can see why companies are jumping on the bandwagon. The newest company to succeed in gaining Chinese approval is Evektor and their SportStar LSA models. The Czech company reported, “Evektor successfully passed an audit by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) at its production plant in Kunovice, Czech Republic.” Chinese auditors focused on quality assurance and inspections as well as Continued Operational Safety Monitoring.

He Did It! Flying at 100 in His LSA

By Dan Johnson || December 1, 2012 1 Comment

Guy Reynolds sits in the cockpit of his Evektor SportStar light sport aircraft Friday [November 30, 2012] before taking the controls for a flight around the Eastern Regional Airport to celebrate his 100th birthday. He is the oldest known licensed pilot in [West Virginia]. photo of Guy Reynolds by John McVey of the Martinsburg, West Virginia Journal newspaper

What will you do on your 100th birthday? Guy went for a flight.

Guy signs a prop that will be on display in the airport terminal. Bart Rogers who sent this photo wrote, "I've promised all other aviators they can sign it when they turn 100."

Dramatic SportStar sunset shot by James Lawrence

This article follows up on an earlier one about Guy Reynolds. Yesterday, on his 100th birthday, Guy took the skies as he has so regularly, flying his Evektor SportStar with a fellow pilot along for safety. Rather than interpret, I present local journalist John McVey's entire piece below. John also gives you a perspective on Guy, a fellow aviator we can all admire. The following was written by John McVey and published by the Martinsburg, West Virginia Journal newspaper. Bold accents are added. —DJ MARTINSBURG — Thomas Guy Reynolds Jr. eased back on the stick of his Evektor SportStar light sport aircraft and it lifted effortlessly off the runway at the Eastern Regional Airport. He circled the field three times, making a couple of low passes over the runway for pictures, and softly set his plane down. That would not be extraordinary, but Reynolds flew Friday on his 100th birthday. He is the oldest known licensed pilot in West Virginia and definitely the senior pilot in this region. "The flight was fine," Reynolds said afterward. "The air was nice and smooth." He takes a co-pilot with him in his two-seater plane, usually Bart Rogers, but flying on his birthday has become a tradition as well as celebrating the day with fellow pilots at the airport, who fly in to enjoy lunch, cake and stories. "I hope to fly on my 101st birthday," he said. Rogers was grateful for the weather Friday, which was perfect for flying — little wind and clear skies. "It is a thrill to fly with someone who's 100 years old," Rogers said. "He's as sharp as a tack." And Rogers does not touch the controls. Reynolds is the pilot. Needless to say, Reynolds' centennial birthday was very special, drawing a quite a crowd of family, friends and admirers. "I am in awe of him, totally in awe," said Ann Reynolds Carden, who traveled from New York to see her father fly. "He doesn't have any fear, so I'm not afraid when he flies, but I don't like to fly." Understandably, she is extremely proud of her father. "He is a wonderful father; he's a good man; he's an amazing, incredible human being," Carden said. Reynolds was born in Martinsburg November 30, 1912, the son of the late Thomas Guy Reynolds Sr. and Lora Lenora Stotler Reynolds. He graduated from Shepherd College in 1933 with a degree in education. Reynolds taught school in Berkeley County for 18 years; ran his own television and radio repair business; served as an electro-mechanical designer for Thieblot Aircraft Co., which was located at the airport; and worked as an engineer at Corning Glass Works in Berkeley County, where he was appointed to the position of senior associate. He was the first person at the local plant to receive that honor. Reynolds took his first flight from Shepherd Field, now the Eastern Regional Airport, in 1929 in a Ford Trimotor airplane. In 1943, he organized the Martinsburg Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, serving as its first commander. The unit's insignia bears his initials. After World War II, Reynolds served as chairman of the West Virginia Aeronautics Commission for two terms. He was recognized in 2004 as the Berkeley County Citizen of the Year for his lifetime of volunteer service to the community. In 2006, Reynolds was named an Outstanding Alumni of Shepherd University. He was inducted into the West Virginia Voter Hall of Fame in 2008 for having voted in every general election since at least 1942, when records were first kept. And on his 93rd birthday, he made a parachute jump — a lifelong ambition — with the Chambersburg, Pennsylvania Parachute Club. He was, and as far he knows, remains the oldest person to parachute in Pennsylvania. "I'm just blessed, that's all I can say," Reynolds said about his aptitude for flying during media interviews. "I'm lucky I can fly. I feel comfortable in the air, relaxed and I enjoy it." Asked for his advice to young people, he said, "If you want to do something, do it. You don't know when you might not be able to do it."

Centenarian Enjoys Flying His Evektor LSA

By Dan Johnson || November 20, 2012 Leave a Comment

photo courtesy Jim Lawrence... companies seeking professional work should contact James Lawrence Photography

Guy Reynolds in beloved Evektor Sportstar. photo provided by Bart Rogers. Also read Jim's Lawrence's article on Guy's 99th birthday flight.

Reynolds and his aviation support group. photo provided by John McVey of the Martinsburg, West Virginia Journal newspaper.

Some see a centenarian in Guy Reynolds; others see a fellow pilot. photo provided by John McVey

This intricate model of air traffic patterns was built by Guy Reynolds while he worked for Thieblot Aircraft. It was featured in NBAA's Skyways magazine in August of 1959. Thanks to aviation historian Bart Rogers for providing this and other information about Guy's background.

On November 30th, Guy Reynolds will celebrate his 100th birthday by taking a flight in Light-Sport Aircraft. Putting a finer point on it, he'll take this flight in his LSA. Are you surprised that a centenarian has an LSA? Admit it... I was. However, Guy is no ordinary guy. He bought his Evektor Sportstar back at the beginning of LSA and he's been flying it about 100 hours every year. That's probably more than you fly your LSA. Impressive even for a young 50-year old pilot, this fact is, well... astounding for a 90-something pilot. Before you question the wisdom of this flight, let me assure you Guy is a pretty together fellow. We spoke on the phone and other than being a bit hard of hearing, he sounded great. I accept that he's 99+ because he said so but he sounds like a younger person. He was savvy enough to voluntarily give up flying with anyone other than another pilot at age 95 because, "I might have a stroke or something and don't want to endanger anyone." So, quit your worrying. Guy is simply a fellow pilot who loves flying and doesn't want to stop. Though he's now given up his medical, he's healthy enough to have gotten one when he was 93 years old. Facilitating Guy's continuing interest in flying his Sportstar, he is supported by a group of fellow local pilots. Inspired when he witnessed the Navy's USS Shenandoah airship in 1923 followed by a first flight in a Ford Tri-Motor in 1928, Guy started flying in the early '40s, got his license in 1945, and logged time on a dozen aircraft models. He stopped in 1952 due to other responsibilities and did not return to the aviation family until 2005 with the advent of Light-Sport. He likes low-wing airplanes, researched articles, and selected the Sportstar. "It's nice to fly, comfortable, has plenty of leg room and is low in cost," observed Guy. Like many who switch from heavier general aviation aircraft he finds it a bit sensitive and would prefer wing tanks for ease of filling. (Newer Evektor models answered this request.) His aviation buddies provide a stool to make getting up on the low wing easier and they carry it along on short cross country flights. This news came to me through longtime Evektor dealer, Jeff Conrad. "Guy was our very first Sportstar customer," reported Jeff. "He purchased Evektor Sportstar, N322PG. This aircraft was licensed the same day as N400EV, April 8, 2005. So it shares the distinction of being [among the first] SLSA in the world." For those that may have forgotten Sportstar enjoys the distinction of being SLSA No. 1 accepted by FAA. "I've never regretted the purchase," said Guy. "I delivered Mr. Reynold's aircraft during Sun 'n Fun 2005. Best I can remember it was April 13-14th. The Bill of Sale was dated March 29th with registration March 31st." Given these dates, Guy's Sportstar may have been the first end-user delivery of an SLSA, Jeff speculated. For T. Guy Reynolds. Jr., LSA was a dream fulfilled and he wasted no time. "When Guy bought his Sportstar he was 93 years old," noted Jeff. "Since then he has accumulated 800 hours as he approaches his 100th birthday. He is surely the oldest living Sport Pilot and still flying!" In his century of living, Guy has done many interesting things. "He's an engineer and an inventor," said Jeff. On our teleconference Guy's friend and local aviation historian, Bart Rogers, spoke of Guy's work in devising early traffic patterns. "I worked with the three main New York airports plus Chicago and Atlanta," recalled Guy. Bart told us about an intricate "sculpture" Guy created to illustrate possible approach entry patterns for the New York airports. The flight paths were represented with thin string. "It was quite a work of art," added Bart (photo). This was all back in the age of the DC-3. He also worked on a then-CAA experiment to put swiveling gear on a DC-3 "so it could land catywampus" in cross-wind conditions as Guy described the effort. So, you may go have a flight on November 30th and I hope it will be pleasurable and enjoyable for you. Yet until you repeat such a flight on your 100th birthday — should you be so fortunate — you'll have nothing over Guy Reynolds. I hope for great weather on that momentous day plus spectators who can appreciate how one pilot celebrates 100 years of living by going aloft in his Light-Sport Aircraft. Hearty congratulations to a fellow aviator! Jeff Conrad was the importer for Evektor in the first few years of Light-Sport Aircraft and remains a dealer today. He joins companies like AB Flight and Dreams Come True, the latter run by Steve Minnich in Dayton, Ohio.

On November 30th, Guy Reynolds will celebrate his 100th birthday by taking a flight in Light-Sport Aircraft. Putting a finer point on it, he’ll take this flight in his LSA. Are you surprised that a centenarian has an LSA? Admit it… I was. However, Guy is no ordinary guy. He bought his Evektor Sportstar back at the beginning of LSA and he’s been flying it about 100 hours every year. That’s probably more than you fly your LSA. Impressive even for a young 50-year old pilot, this fact is, well… astounding for a 90-something pilot. Before you question the wisdom of this flight, let me assure you Guy is a pretty together fellow. We spoke on the phone and other than being a bit hard of hearing, he sounded great. I accept that he’s 99+ because he said so but he sounds like a younger person. He was savvy enough to voluntarily give up flying with anyone other than another pilot at age 95 because, “I might have a stroke or something and don’t want to endanger anyone.” So, quit your worrying.

‘Net Surfin’ for LSA News

By James Lawrence || August 27, 2010 Leave a Comment

photo courtesy Skyraider Aviation

photos courtesy AeroVironment

photo courtesy Quad City Challenger

Knocking around the 'Net looking for signs that Light Sport is alive and well... *** Michael Combs is nearing the end of his 19,000 mile odyssey — what a vision. Latest word from PR dude Dave Gustafson is that the Flight for the Human Spirit in a Remos GX has made it to my old west coast stompin' grounds. Five jewels of the left coast — San Diego, Burbank, San Luis Obispo, Monterey and San Jose — were on the itinerary for one magical flight day over one of the most beautiful stretches of coastal landscape in the world. God speed Michael, 18,000 miles and 45 states and you're nearly done. • Imagine the human experience he's having, flying all summer, meeting all the great people he's met. I'm jealous, I admit it. • BTW, pilots are encouraged to fly along for any portion of Michael's Flight. *** Slow recovery? Double-dip recession? Not as far as Skyraider Aviation is concerned. This hustling sport pilot flying club and training center is plenty active at Denver's busy Centennial Airport as well as at it's Erie Municipal location nearby. A new PiperSport just joined the training and rental fleet — that's bound to perk anybody up — to share duties with two Gobosh 700s, an Evektor SportStar and a Remos G-3. • The outfit has operated for four years and claims to be the first in Colorado to offer specific Sport Pilot training. *** Loosely-Connected-to-Light-Sport-Dept. — Another of those weird and wonderful experimental alternative-powered aircraft just made its maiden flight. *** AeroVironment, the braintrust company begun by the late Dr. Paul MacCready, who gave us Gossamer Albatross, the first successful human-powered aircraft, back in the '70s, has begun flight test on Global Observer,an unmanned hybrid-electric surveillance prototype that will eventually be powered by a liquid hydrogen fuel system. • It launched from California's famed Edwards Air Force Base and flew for an hour at 4,000, controlled from a ground LRE (Launch and Recovery Element, officialese for a flight sim-like control booth) with a retired Air Force light colonel at the controls. Can you say "X-Box?" • Here's an interesting image phrase the company uses: "The future is unmanned." Indeed, it's pioneering all kinds of hand-launched small electric-powered surveillance aircraft for the military. • Global Observer will ultimately fly between 55,000 and 65,000 feet for up to a week at a time for disaster relief, reconnaissance and surveillance. Expect some sophisticated tech fallout that will in time trickle down to general aviation from projects like this. *** Not to be outdone by the West, a local news organ in the Greenville, South Carolina area reports that Spartanburg's downtown aircraft have discovered Light Sport aircraft and anticipate it will "fuel growth" at the airport. The report compares the initial purchase price and operating costs between LSA and GA aircraft. • Although it was a bit wide-eyed in its example of an LSA that will fly at 120 knots for 9 hours straight, the story clearly gets the advantage the public is beginning to perceive from our piece of the personal flight pie, and that's a good thing. *** Finishing up back on the west coast comes a news story, this time from Yakima, WA, that profiles a retired LSA pilot who flies his Challenger II from nearby Prosser Airport. The article accurately chronicles the inception of the Sport Pilot rule and claims Light Sport training is the biggest student draw at the airport — a "miniature boom in activity" — an increase of 50% in operations since 2007. *** In this economy, it's good to see the word is getting out and people remember that instead of moping around, there are still plenty of affordable ways to get out and enjoy life — like flying an LSA!

Knocking around the ‘Net looking for signs that Light Sport is alive and well… *** Michael Combs is nearing the end of his 19,000 mile odyssey — what a vision. Latest word from PR dude Dave Gustafson is that the Flight for the Human Spirit in a Remos GX has made it to my old west coast stompin’ grounds. Five jewels of the left coast — San Diego, Burbank, San Luis Obispo, Monterey and San Jose — were on the itinerary for one magical flight day over one of the most beautiful stretches of coastal landscape in the world. God speed Michael, 18,000 miles and 45 states and you’re nearly done. • Imagine the human experience he’s having, flying all summer, meeting all the great people he’s met. I’m jealous, I admit it. • BTW, pilots are encouraged to fly along for any portion of Michael’s Flight.

Sebring Day Three: To The Max

By James Lawrence || February 2, 2010 Leave a Comment

Evektor USA's main man Jim Lee took me up for an enjoyable float above the clouds today in the SportStar Max, the top-line evolution of the SportStar which won the first ASTM SLSA designation back at the beginning of the category. *** Above the line of scud clouds murking things up below 2500' or so, we cruised around for awhile in smooth air, doing some stalls, playing with the TruTrak EFIS, enjoying the solid, easy handling of the bird, and talking about the simple joy of flying as we gazed down upon the beautiful green earth. *** I'll be writing up my review of the Max for an upcoming issue. Meanwhile, more eye candy. *** (That's Jim standing by the airplane). *** Attendance for the show seemed pretty good today, although no official numbers yet.

Evektor USA’s main man Jim Lee took me up for an enjoyable float above the clouds today in the SportStar Max, the top-line evolution of the SportStar which won the first ASTM SLSA designation back at the beginning of the category. *** Above the line of scud clouds murking things up below 2500′ or so, we cruised around for awhile in smooth air, doing some stalls, playing with the TruTrak EFIS, enjoying the solid, easy handling of the bird, and talking about the simple joy of flying as we gazed down upon the beautiful green earth. *** I’ll be writing up my review of the Max for an upcoming issue. Meanwhile, more eye candy. *** (That’s Jim standing by the airplane). *** Attendance for the show seemed pretty good today, although no official numbers yet.

Steady Subtle Changes Add Up to the Max

By Dan Johnson || June 21, 2009 Leave a Comment

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

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

Big Crowds at the Sun ‘n Fun LSA Mall

By Dan Johnson || April 20, 2008 Leave a Comment

If you missed the Sun 'n Fun LSA Mall in 2008, please accept an invitation for April 21-26, 2009.

Sun 'n Fun 2008 is history, but planning is already underway for the 2009 event. Event boss John Burton confirmed we will again have the LAMA-hosted LSA Mall right at the front gate next April 21-26. A major success at this year's Lakeland, Florida airshow, the industry Mall presentation featured 17 Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Weather prevented Fantasy Air's Allegro from attending. Two days before the event, a tornado crushed a Sting S3 planned for display. And work at Quicksilver Manufacturing postponed the exhibit of the GT500 (they're finishing SLSA approval, reports national sales manager, Todd Ellefson). *** The 17 who were in the '08 LSA Mall enjoyed significant traffic all week and virtually every visitor to Sun 'n Fun was at least exposed to Light-Sport Aircraft in a wide variety (although we were not able to enlist any trike or powered parachute companies). Aircraft shown were: Flight Design CTLS, AirMax SeaMax, Jabiru USA J-250, IndUS Thorpedo, CubCrafters Sport Cub, FP&A A-22 Valor, Sportsplanes.com Breezer II, Just Aircraft Highlander on floats, Lambada motorglider, Gobosh G-700S, Remos G-3, CZAW SportCruiser, Legend Cub, AMD Patriot and CH-601, Evektor SportStar, and Paradise P-1. *** Joining LAMA inside the big welcome tent were Rotax and Jabiru LSA engines, BRS emergency parachutes, AirFleet Capital (LSA financing), and ASA training resources featuring Paul Hamilton (who also made a special 30-minute DVD of LSA flying in scenic locations). LAMA plus tens of thousands of visitors thank all who participated!

Sun ‘n Fun 2008 is history, but planning is already underway for the 2009 event. Event boss John Burton confirmed we will again have the LAMA-hosted LSA Mall right at the front gate next April 21-26. A major success at this year’s Lakeland, Florida airshow, the industry Mall presentation featured 17 Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Weather prevented Fantasy Air’s Allegro from attending. Two days before the event, a tornado crushed a Sting S3 planned for display. And work at Quicksilver Manufacturing postponed the exhibit of the GT500 (they’re finishing SLSA approval, reports national sales manager, Todd Ellefson). *** The 17 who were in the ’08 LSA Mall enjoyed significant traffic all week and virtually every visitor to Sun ‘n Fun was at least exposed to Light-Sport Aircraft in a wide variety (although we were not able to enlist any trike or powered parachute companies).

Light Sport Airplanes West Officially Opens

By Dan Johnson || September 17, 2007 Leave a Comment

On a gorgeous April 28th, Light Sport Airplanes West brought industry leaders for the Grand Opening of their 5,600 square foot showroom/mall (lower photo). Pictured above (L-R) are Tom Peghiny and John Dunham of Flight Design USA with LSA West owner Mike Fletcher.

Within 24 hours of getting home from Sun 'n Fun, several industry leaders including Evektor America's Jeff Conrad, Flight Design USA's Tom Peghiny, Jabiru USA's Ed Ricks, and BRS parachute's Gregg Ellsworth packed up and headed off to California. What motivated these men to depart so soon after a long week in Florida? They all wanted to support proprietor Mike Fletcher as he and his staff celebrated the Grand Opening of Light Sport Airplanes West. I also flew out to join the party for America's largest LSA showroom and a grand affair it was. Estimates put attendance at 300 (I suspect that didn't include everyone present as some 100 aircraft flew in). Representing the Sportstar, CTsw, and J-250 plus the Remos G-3, TL Ultralight StingSport, and Tecnam, LSA West has an impressive line and a large inventory of LSA in stock. The Salinas, California-based operation also conducts flight training and represents some brands up and down the west coast. Various media people attended inlcuding a writer from Flying magazine) and Salinas Mayor Dennis Donohue spoke at the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Within 24 hours of getting home from Sun ‘n Fun, several industry leaders including Evektor America’s Jeff Conrad, Flight Design USA’s Tom Peghiny, Jabiru USA’s Ed Ricks, and BRS parachute’s Gregg Ellsworth packed up and headed off to California. What motivated these men to depart so soon after a long week in Florida? They all wanted to support proprietor Mike Fletcher as he and his staff celebrated the Grand Opening of Light Sport Airplanes West. I also flew out to join the party for America’s largest LSA showroom and a grand affair it was. Estimates put attendance at 300 (I suspect that didn’t include everyone present as some 100 aircraft flew in). Representing the Sportstar, CTsw, and J-250 plus the Remos G-3, TL Ultralight StingSport, and Tecnam, LSA West has an impressive line and a large inventory of LSA in stock.

LAMA Audits of SLSA Continue; Board Expanded

By Dan Johnson || September 17, 2007 Leave a Comment

LAMA board members (rear L-R): Phil Lockwood, Jack Pelton, Tom Peghiny, Jo Konrad, and Tom Gunnarson; (front L-R): Dave Martin, Dan Johnson, and Larry Burke. Visit LAMA's website. Evektor and Czech Aircraft Works are the newest companies passing independent audits.

In a year of facilitating independent audits for Special Light-Sport Aircraft, LAMA, the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association, completed reviews of six companies: IndUS (Thorpedo); Jihlavan (Kappa KP-5); Aeropro (EuroFox); Flight Design (CT); Czech Aircraft Works (SportCruiser, Mermaid, & Parrot); and Evektor (SportStar). CZAW and Evektor were announced at a press conference at AirVenture Oshkosh 2007; all the others were announced earlier. Successfully audited LSA can display individually-numbered LAMA decals. Customers appreciate and seek independently reviewed products. *** At the same press conference LAMA announced expansion of its board to seven members. New members are Jack Pelton, president and CEO of Cessna Aircraft and Jo Konrad, president of the German Ultralight Association (DULV). These impressive additions join Dave Martin, journalist and former editor of Kitplanes; Tom Peghiny, president of Flight Design USA; Phil Lockwood, president of Lockwood Aircraft Supply; Tom Gunnarson, LAMA president; and myself, serving as Chairman. LAMA co-founder Larry Burke has the title Chairman Emeritus; he remains active in LAMA.