Ecoflyer is related to the Private Explorer, a larger and much heavier “flying camper.” The Canadian company also makes floats for aircraft up to 6,000 pounds.
Just one glance at the Canadian-developed Ecoflyer confirms its size. Looking like an overweight American, Ecoflyer nonetheless boasts enough room to set up a small dining table in a spacious cabin that could later be converted to your bedroom. Ecoflyer’s cabin contains 152 cubic feet of volume, only 13 feet less than a Chrysler minivan that seats seven. You may only be able to take one family member along but if you want to fly your LSA to a remote field and camp for the night, Ecoflyer could be your Light-Sport flying machine. “It’s intended to be used as shelter when on the ground,” said Bernard Laferrière, president of Explorer Aéronautique, based in French-speaking Québec. The flying seat backs flip around so two occupants can face aft. Two more can sit facing forward in an aft cavity. *** Empty weight is a fairly remarkable 750 pounds, low considering even the simple Cub-like LSA designs have to work hard to stay below the LSA maximum empty weight of 890 pounds. Part of weight minimization employs a Y-joystick accessible to either pilot. Engine choices are the 100-hp Rotax or 120-hp Jabiru. Delivery is expected by summer of 2009. Ecoflyer is priced about $100,000.
Wag-Aero had a tent possibility with their “Wagabond” version of a Piper “Vagabond” conventional geared light plane. It was a slip cover over one wing half that dropped down giving you a tent.
I really would like to see a slsa with sleeping capability, I don’t want to do cross country’s and look for hotels just for the night. I believe this niche should serve many.
Hi Tom: Over the years a couple designs have come along that addressed that need but it’s apparently a relatively specialized market as I’m aware of none now. However, some RANS kit designs might be made to work that way.
So sad. I really wanted to get one of these. When will someone step up and fill this void in aviation….