Since Light-Sport Aircraft first arrived on the aviation scene back in 2004, one brand has lead the fleet as it grew impressively. Flight Design has manufactured nearly 2,000 aircraft over those 21 years. Its several models can be found in most countries on Earth.
After producing hundreds of CT-series LSA, the German company introduced their all-new F2 model with FAA’s still-to-come Mosaic regulation in mind. In every way, F2 is a premium upgrade to their earlier model. Numerous pilots have placed deposits.
Imagine the challenge. Before Russia invaded, the Germany company did most of their fabrication in Ukraine. As hostilities increased, the company relocated staff, tooling, and inventory to the Czech Republic. Similar to most airframe builders, many components are sourced from countries best at manufacturing those parts.
So Flight Design is already — has long been — an international company with operations in several nations. That it has new Chinese ownerships speaks significantly to businessmen in that country having the funds needed. However, they will have almost no input to F2’s design; it was already complete when this ownership change occurred. SG Investments will supply minimal management. What they can offer is manufacturing expertise — and the money to put new systems in place.
Some Americans are not fond of Chinese leadership even though we buy plenty of products from their companies. Several prominent American brands have been acquired by Chinese investors, including Cirrus, Continental, Icon, and Glasair. Chinese investors also own Diamond Aircraft and now, Flight Design. One of the first acquisitions, Cirrus, has been Chinese owned since 2011. Given steady sales since then, buyers seem unconcerned.
American LSA enthusiasts looking at F2 will be served by a U.S. company run by Americans. Airtime Aviation, now in its second generation of family operation, knows the light aircraft market as well as any dealership in the USA. How can I be so sure? Well, they have long been the largest and most successful retailer of LSA in America. They know you. They like you. They speak your language.
Tom Gutmann Sr (L) and Tom Jr have been Flight Design dealers for two decades and are the country’s leading seller of Light-Sport Aircraft.
Airtime boss Tom Gutman, Jr., reported, “Flight Design was purchased in March, 2025. The deal was finalized in April of this year. Flight Design was acquired by SG Investments America LLC, settling the company’s exit from restructuring as required by German law.
“SG Investments America is a division of the globally-recognized Shang Gong Group,” stated the company, noting significant investments in recreational aviation. SG is also the owner of Icon Aircraft.
“With an impressive portfolio of ten cutting-edge manufacturing facilities worldwide, four located in Germany and one in the Czech Republic, SG Investments is poised for remarkable growth,” believes Flight Design.
SG Investments is channeling their energy and resources into enhancing the Flight Design’s Czech production facility. “They have laid out ambitious plans to ramp up production to four airplanes per month by the close of 2025,” said Tom. “SG will go further with a brand-new facility in the Czech Republic, proving their commitment to innovation and expansion.”
“SG Investments is officially an American company,” though Tom observed this is merely offices. “Production will remain in Europe where a top Chinese executive for the company has lived for the last 19 years.” Shang Gong Group is big in manufacturing. The corporation employs 5,200 employees, of which 2,200 (42%) are not in China. Principally, they make sewing machines, Tom identified.
“While seeking a new F2 production facility, close to an airport, SG wants a highly professional factory aiming to modernize production,” Tom added. “They already have personnel and equipment for this.” New facilities will let Flight Design raise production from four F2s per month to six per month.
Airtime News
for F2 LSA Owners
The growing buzz around upcoming Mosaic rules for Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) stimulates pilots but also producers.
F2 made its first public appearance at Aero 2019 in Friedrichshafen, Germany.
“Flight Design is already ahead of the curve,” Tom said, “actively preparing for implementation of these game-changing regulations. The proposed changes are set to unlock even greater potential for the F2 LSA with relatively minor adjustments.”
Flight Design F2 mLSA is projected to have a Vh (maximum level speed) limit of 135 knots and a MTOW (Maximum Takeoff Weight) of 1,650 pounds. Tom continued, “This represents a significant leap in performance compared to current LSA limitations, offering increased speed for those cross-country adventures and the ability to carry more of what you need.” Watch the video below for more information about F2.
According to Flight Design, no major structural modifications will be necessary to take advantage of new Mosaic limits. Instead, only minor modifications and adjustments will need to be made at a qualified Flight Design Service Center, along with the corresponding updates to your aircraft documents. Thanks to this plan, current or near-term F2 buyers will gain all the advantages of Mosaic changes.
Airtime Aviation, based centrally in Tulsa, Oklahoma aims to ensure that individuals and businesses across the United States have access to Flight Design’s cutting-edge aircraft. “We manage the entire importation process, ensuring full compliance with FAA regulations, and offer a robust network of sales and independent, qualified service centers throughout the country,” Tom added.
Although Airtime does not directly offer flight training, the Tulsa company is a strong advocate for safe and effective flight instruction and can connect buyers with flight schools and instructors who know and operate Flight Design aircraft.
See F2 and speak to Airtime representatives at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025 running from July 21 to 27.
Contact Information:
- Website: Airtime Aviation, Inc.
- Email: Tom Gutmann, Jr.
- Telephone: Click this link to call
This video was recorded at Midwest LSA Expo 2020*, featuring Tom Gutmann Jr., describing F2 in detail. (*Midwest LSA Expo was the only airshow that happened in this difficult year of Covid. Dave Loveman edited and released the video in 2021.)
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