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News & Video on Light-Sport Aircraft, Sport Pilot Kits, and Ultralight Aircraft

Bright Yellow Fk9 Was a Hit at Sebring’s Expo

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Cementing their business arrangement, Fk9 designer and company director, Peter Funk (left), shakes hands with Tony Anderson of Fk Lightplanes U.S. at the Sebring Expo.

He could see the benefit for his company’s sales, so Fk Leichtflugzeuge — or FK Lightplanes — president Peter Funk came from Speyer, Germany to support his new American importer, Tony Anderson of Fk Lightplanes USA. Tony brought his family operation to Sebring and their classy display at the main intersection of the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo attracted the attention of many in attendance. The intensely yellow Fk9 turned heads and lifted 25 pilots who took demo flights during Sebring. “I was very happy to see how well our high wing model was received,” said a smiling Peter Funk. The Fk9 Mk IV is a well-evolved design. Since the Mk I model flew in 1989, more than 300 aircraft have been delivered. The latest generation Mk IV features a wider cockpit area, four inches more legroom, and improved seat comfort. Unlike many LSA, Fk9 is available as a kit, fast-build kit, or ready-to-fly SLSA.

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He could see the benefit for his company’s sales, so Fk Leichtflugzeuge — or FK Lightplanes — president Peter Funk came from Speyer, Germany to support his new American importer, Tony Anderson of Fk Lightplanes USA. Tony brought his family operation to Sebring and their classy display at the main intersection of the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo attracted the attention of many in attendance. The intensely yellow Fk9 turned heads and lifted 25 pilots who took demo flights during Sebring. “I was very happy to see how well our high wing model was received,” said a smiling Peter Funk. The Fk9 Mk IV is a well-evolved design. Since the Mk I model flew in 1989, more than 300 aircraft have been delivered. The latest generation Mk IV features a wider cockpit area, four inches more legroom, and improved seat comfort. Unlike many LSA, Fk9 is available as a kit, fast-build kit, or ready-to-fly SLSA.

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“Extreme” American Model Earns SLSA Certificate

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Known for its colorful Escapade displayed at airshows, Just Aircraft also makes this Highlander in addition to the new Extreme model. Read my Highlander flight review in the April 2006 issue of Ultralight Flying!, and later, on ByDanJohnson.com.

Hot and heavy before the Sun ‘n Fun airshow opens, cool and light SLSA are on the fast track to approval. The latest announcement from Just Aircraft — formerly of Idaho and now of Walhallo, South Carolina — represents the 33rd aircraft model to qualify. Company spokesmen Harry Berndt and Troy Woodland informed me today that their brand new, Rotax 914-powered Highlander Extreme won its certificate from an FAA examiner. The turbo-boosted Extreme model from a company that built its reputation designing rugged, light kits seems appropriate for bush or short field operations at high elevations. Extreme’s taller gear and bigger tires and an aluminum leading edge wrap are geared to enhance this capability. Troy flew the plane from the company’s short strip and remarked excitedly, “It was off the ground in 30 feet (into a light breeze)!” They plan to show the model at Sun ‘n Fun 2006.

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Hot and heavy before the Sun ‘n Fun airshow opens, cool and light SLSA are on the fast track to approval. The latest announcement from Just Aircraft — formerly of Idaho and now of Walhallo, South Carolina — represents the 33rd aircraft model to qualify. Company spokesmen Harry Berndt and Troy Woodland informed me today that their brand new, Rotax 914-powered Highlander Extreme won its certificate from an FAA examiner. The turbo-boosted Extreme model from a company that built its reputation designing rugged, light kits seems appropriate for bush or short field operations at high elevations. Extreme’s taller gear and bigger tires and an aluminum leading edge wrap are geared to enhance this capability. Troy flew the plane from the company’s short strip and remarked excitedly, “It was off the ground in 30 feet (into a light breeze)!” They plan to show the model at Sun ‘n Fun 2006.

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Remember Skyboy? It’s Back with New Representation

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Using a blend of composite and fabric, Skyboy is powered by the Jabiru 2200 80-hp engine and a Woodcomp three-blade prop to cruise at 100 mph (85 knots). But it’s those very comfortable seats that stand out in the pilot report I wrote.

Way back in time, back before Light-Sport Aircraft…well, five or six years ago, Skyboy was one of the hot ultralight models. Prices were low, flight qualities were good, and cabin comfort was excellent. It also had a unique look. But after a fast start, Skyboy seemed to lose direction. Even a name change was attempted to reposition the design. Waves of new SLSA were stealing the show. *** Yet Skyboy is back! Interplane remains the manufacturer, but now Doug and Betty Hempstead of Fantasy Air USA and Allegro fame have picked up the Skyboy. And they got it SLSA approved, number 41 in the SLSA sweepstakes. The North Carolina company is establishing itself as a supplier of modestly-priced yet intriguing SLSA, the Allegro for sixty something, and now the Skyboy for a remarkably low $47,500. Lots of options can be added, but for well under $50K you get a fairly well equipped, ready-to-fly airplane.

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Way back in time, back before Light-Sport Aircraft…well, five or six years ago, Skyboy was one of the hot ultralight models. Prices were low, flight qualities were good, and cabin comfort was excellent. It also had a unique look. But after a fast start, Skyboy seemed to lose direction. Even a name change was attempted to reposition the design. Waves of new SLSA were stealing the show. *** Yet Skyboy is back! Interplane remains the manufacturer, but now Doug and Betty Hempstead of Fantasy Air USA and Allegro fame have picked up the Skyboy. And they got it SLSA approved, number 41 in the SLSA sweepstakes. The North Carolina company is establishing itself as a supplier of modestly-priced yet intriguing SLSA, the Allegro for sixty something, and now the Skyboy for a remarkably low $47,500. Lots of options can be added, but for well under $50K you get a fairly well equipped, ready-to-fly airplane.

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“Yoosh-ga” Has a New Name & Web Address

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While not the permanent name of the magazine, the masthead will certainly reinforce the new web address.

For more than 20 years I served on the board of the U.S. Hang Gliding Association, or USHGA. …or some called it phonetically, “Yoosh-Ga.” During my tenure on the 25-person board, the better-organized hang gliding group assimilated the paragliding community. Despite lengthy and passionate debates, the name of the association did not change and its magazine was still called Hang Gliding. However, as the paragliding percentage grew toward half of all members, it became a smart move to rename the association the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association, abbreviated as USHPA. *** Now the 10,000-member organization has a snappier web address — USHPA.aero (formerly USHGA.org) and what better way to communicate this update than to splash it across the top of their monthly magazine, which has long included info for both soaring disciplines. The magazine name won’t last — it will be used only for four months. Afterward, they’ll revert to the masthead you can see on the left column of ByDanJohnson.com.

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For more than 20 years I served on the board of the U.S. Hang Gliding Association, or USHGA. …or some called it phonetically, “Yoosh-Ga.” During my tenure on the 25-person board, the better-organized hang gliding group assimilated the paragliding community. Despite lengthy and passionate debates, the name of the association did not change and its magazine was still called Hang Gliding. However, as the paragliding percentage grew toward half of all members, it became a smart move to rename the association the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association, abbreviated as USHPA. *** Now the 10,000-member organization has a snappier web address — USHPA.aero (formerly USHGA.org) and what better way to communicate this update than to splash it across the top of their monthly magazine, which has long included info for both soaring disciplines. The magazine name won’t last — it will be used only for four months. Afterward, they’ll revert to the masthead you can see on the left column of ByDanJohnson.com.

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Luscombe Silvaire is Newest “Oldie” to Go SLSA

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Luscombe Silvaire Airplane Company recently announced winning SLSA approval for their Silvaire LSA-8 entry in the Sport Pilot sweepstakes.

Silvaire is model 43 to earn its Special LSA airworthiness certificate. Luscombe Silvaire set the base price at $90,000 for a VFR model with night capability and flaps (neither of which were standard for modest aircraft in the days when Luscombe was first made). “Great Airplane,” exclaimed Carol Winell Dearden speaking for the Southern California manufacturer.

Luscombe is based at the Flabob Airport in Riverside, California…“Historic Flabob” their website proclaims.

Owned by EAA Board Member Thomas Wathen’s Foundation, the iconic airport is also home to EAA Chapter #1 and the Wathen Aviation High School. Flabob and Riverside are a very short flight away from AOPA fall 2006 Expo in nearby Palm Springs Nov 9-10-11, this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Come out and see the new Luscombe Silvaire along with more than 20 other Light-Sport Aircraft.

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Luscombe Silvaire Airplane Company recently announced winning SLSA approval for their Silvaire LSA-8 entry in the Sport Pilot sweepstakes. Silvaire is model 43 to earn its Special LSA airworthiness certificate. Luscombe Silvaire set the base price at $90,000 for a VFR model with night capability and flaps (neither of which were standard for modest aircraft in the days when Luscombe was first made). “Great Airplane,” exclaimed Carol Winell Dearden speaking for the Southern California manufacturer. Luscombe is based at the Flabob Airport in Riverside, California…“Historic Flabob” their website proclaims. Owned by EAA Board Member Thomas Wathen’s Foundation, the iconic airport is also home to EAA Chapter #1 and the Wathen Aviation High School. Flabob and Riverside are a very short flight away from AOPA fall 2006 Expo in nearby Palm Springs Nov 9-10-11, this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Come out and see the new Luscombe Silvaire along with more than 20 other Light-Sport Aircraft.

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“Van” Flies His RV-12 LSA Entry…Big Grin

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Van’s RV-12 prototype had 606 pounds of useful load with 19 gallons (115 lb.) of fuel. This gives RV-12 491 pounds for people and baggage. Van’s said this is “about as good as any of our other 2-seat airplanes.” Follow the progress of Van’s RV-12 project.

Cessna shows an LSA. Van’s Aircraft shows an LSA. Cessna flies their LSA. Van’s flies their LSA. Is it a race? Company founder and designer Dick VanGrunsven first flew his RV-12 on November 9th. The largest airplane builder (Cessna) and the largest kit company (Van’s) have now flown their LSA entries, each a product of ambitiously rapid development periods. *** The prototype RV-12 came in at a respectable 714 pounds empty, less than what many insiders thought yet within one pound of VanGrunsven’s prediction. “[Van and RV-12] certainly got off the ground easily and climbed well, passing almost inaudibly over our engineering and tech support staff,” Ken Scott wrote. Roll rate was described as “pretty snappy.” VanGrunsven said it felt at least as quick as the RV-9. Stalls were reported as gentle and conventional. Scott concluded: “We can report that when Van taxied in and opened the swing-up canopy, he was grinning.”

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Cessna shows an LSA. Van’s Aircraft shows an LSA. Cessna flies their LSA. Van’s flies their LSA. Is it a race? Company founder and designer Dick VanGrunsven first flew his RV-12 on November 9th. The largest airplane builder (Cessna) and the largest kit company (Van’s) have now flown their LSA entries, each a product of ambitiously rapid development periods. *** The prototype RV-12 came in at a respectable 714 pounds empty, less than what many insiders thought yet within one pound of VanGrunsven’s prediction. “[Van and RV-12] certainly got off the ground easily and climbed well, passing almost inaudibly over our engineering and tech support staff,” Ken Scott wrote. Roll rate was described as “pretty snappy.” VanGrunsven said it felt at least as quick as the RV-9. Stalls were reported as gentle and conventional. Scott concluded: “We can report that when Van taxied in and opened the swing-up canopy, he was grinning.”

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Here’s a Storm You Won’t Mind — Rally LSA

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Welcome to the 27th SLSA to be approved. Storm Aircraft of Italy has struck a deal to have their Rally manufactured in the U.S. by Prestige Aircraft, of Jackson, Michigan.

This carbon fiber and Kevlar all-composite machine using the 100-hp Rotax 912S is base priced at $85,000. Prestige has appointed Air Elite Aviation of Three Rivers, Michigan as their exclusive distributor.

Rally boasts a wide cabin with 300 degrees of visibility plus doors that can be opened when flying slower than 60 knots (69 mph). Rally can cruise 107 knots (123 mph) at 75% power. Using its 34-gallon fuel capacity, the side-by-side two seater can carry you 900 statue miles.

Prestige plans to deliver Rally with basic day VFR flight instruments plus ICOM 200 Radio, Garmin Transponder with an altitude encoder, turn coordinator, and a tail strobe. The company also says that all aircraft models come with a limited two-year or 1000-hour warranty.

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Welcome to the 27th SLSA to be approved. Storm Aircraft of Italy has struck a deal to have their Rally manufactured in the U.S. by Prestige Aircraft, of Jackson, Michigan. This carbon fiber and Kevlar all-composite machine using the 100-hp Rotax 912S is base priced at $85,000. Prestige has appointed Air Elite Aviation of Three Rivers, Michigan as their exclusive distributor. Rally boasts a wide cabin with 300 degrees of visibility plus doors that can be opened when flying slower than 60 knots (69 mph). Rally can cruise 107 knots (123 mph) at 75% power. Using its 34-gallon fuel capacity, the side-by-side two seater can carry you 900 statue miles. Prestige plans to deliver Rally with basic day VFR flight instruments plus ICOM 200 Radio, Garmin Transponder with an altitude encoder, turn coordinator, and a tail strobe. The company also says that all aircraft models come with a limited two-year or 1000-hour warranty.

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Kappa KP-5 “B” Exhibited in EAA’s LSA Mall

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Importer Ed Miller took the right seat in his new KP-5 model so my camera can show the wider cabin on the sharp red and gray aircraft. Click here for more complete specs.

As with EAA’s premiere LSA Mall at AirVenture 2005, the area is proving a huge hit again in 2006 and drawing large crowds interested in LSA. Not all 38 SLSA are present but all the leading brands (measured by deliveries) are on exhibit. *** One new model revealed at the event is Kappa Aircraft‘s KP-5. Though it was not rebadged, I’d at least call it a “B” model for its several significant changes. Most notable in the staggered seat design — with the left seat positioned several inches in front of the right seat — is a much wider 47-inch cabin. “Flight schools like the extra width so they can handle bigger students,” said importer Ed Miller. The “B” KP-5 has thicker wing skins (.027), filled pop rivets, and electric actuation for its excellent Fowler flaps (an earlier manual lever took some muscle). Inside a center console is narrower giving more foot room. I found the finish to be excellent and the new changes appealing.

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As with EAA’s premiere LSA Mall at AirVenture 2005, the area is proving a huge hit again in 2006 and drawing large crowds interested in LSA. Not all 38 SLSA are present but all the leading brands (measured by deliveries) are on exhibit. *** One new model revealed at the event is Kappa Aircraft‘s KP-5. Though it was not rebadged, I’d at least call it a “B” model for its several significant changes. Most notable in the staggered seat design — with the left seat positioned several inches in front of the right seat — is a much wider 47-inch cabin. “Flight schools like the extra width so they can handle bigger students,” said importer Ed Miller. The “B” KP-5 has thicker wing skins (.027), filled pop rivets, and electric actuation for its excellent Fowler flaps (an earlier manual lever took some muscle). Inside a center console is narrower giving more foot room.

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“Seal of Approval”…IndUS Audited Successfully

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IndUS Aviation builds the Continental-powered T-211 and the Jabiru-powered Thorpedo at Dallas Executive Airport. The company is also active in establishing LSA in India (hence their name, Ind-US).

Some folks wonder about the new Statement of Compliance to ASTM standards. Is this a true certification system? FAA doesn’t do the certification, so how do we know it means anything? Good questions. A manufacturer certifies their airplane. A Designated Airworthiness Rep (DAR) examines it. Companies behind each approved SLSA (now 38 aircraft) must also do an annual internal audit. Now industry association LAMA has started promoting voluntary independent audits, to be certain a design has met and still meets ASTM standards. The first of these was performed and today LAMA was advised that IndUS Aviation, maker of the Thorp T-211 and Thorpedo, successfully completed the first external audit of a LSA builder. LAMA president Tom Gunnarson called IndUS, “an accredited company.” Such third-party audits — plus a proposed decal applied to every aircraft showing successful completion — is likely to win support from EAA, AOPA, insurance companies, FAA, and NTSB. Buyers may soon learn to look for the “Seal of Approval.”

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Some folks wonder about the new Statement of Compliance to ASTM standards. Is this a true certification system? FAA doesn’t do the certification, so how do we know it means anything? Good questions. A manufacturer certifies their airplane. A Designated Airworthiness Rep (DAR) examines it. Companies behind each approved SLSA (now 38 aircraft) must also do an annual internal audit. Now industry association LAMA has started promoting voluntary independent audits, to be certain a design has met and still meets ASTM standards. The first of these was performed and today LAMA was advised that IndUS Aviation, maker of the Thorp T-211 and Thorpedo, successfully completed the first external audit of a LSA builder. LAMA president Tom Gunnarson called IndUS, “an accredited company.” Such third-party audits — plus a proposed decal applied to every aircraft showing successful completion — is likely to win support from EAA, AOPA, insurance companies, FAA, and NTSB.

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Sleek Design Is Workhorse; Remos G-3 “Trainer”

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German flight school owner Josef Sporer poses near a Remos G-3. He says the landing gear has never been damaged even after 20,000 student landings!

Rob Rollison imports the gorgeous Remos G-3. [2007 UPDATE: The new importer is Remos USA. Call: Toll Free: 888-838-9879] He is working closely with German designer Lorenz Kreitmayr to certify G-3 as a Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Early sales will be to sophisticated buyers that see the sleek machine as a personal aircraft with impressive performance. But at the Sebring Expo 2006, I met a German instructor who sees it differently. Josef Sporer somewhat hesitantly bought a G-3 to see if it would work in his flight school. After an astounding 20,000 landings and 3,500 hours on one aircraft, he is so convinced of the aircraft’s sturdiness for instructional use that he’s added a second one. So while the Remos aircraft looks like a dream, and boasts good gliding and cruising performance, it qualifies quite well as a trainer, too. Built since 1997, more than 164 are flying around the world.

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Rob Rollison imports the gorgeous Remos G-3. [2007 UPDATE: The new importer is Remos USA. Call: Toll Free: 888-838-9879] He is working closely with German designer Lorenz Kreitmayr to certify G-3 as a Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Early sales will be to sophisticated buyers that see the sleek machine as a personal aircraft with impressive performance. But at the Sebring Expo 2006, I met a German instructor who sees it differently. Josef Sporer somewhat hesitantly bought a G-3 to see if it would work in his flight school. After an astounding 20,000 landings and 3,500 hours on one aircraft, he is so convinced of the aircraft’s sturdiness for instructional use that he’s added a second one. So while the Remos aircraft looks like a dream, and boasts good gliding and cruising performance, it qualifies quite well as a trainer, too. Built since 1997, more than 164 are flying around the world.

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Come See LSA at AOPA’s 2007 Expo in Hartford

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Near the LAMA motorhome display on the Hartford-Brainard Airport, you’ll find these LSA: Sigma; Sportstar; CTsw; G-700S; Jabiru J-250; G-3; StingSport, Breezer, and Skylark; and two Tecnams. Alongside their GA models, Cirrus will show their SRS and CubCrafters their Sport Cub. Neither Cessna Skycatcher nor The Champ are expected to attend.

At Oshkosh I took the chance to speak with several general aviation leaders — CEOs of top general aviation companies and presidents of leading membership organizations. All have been kind to me with their time and generous with their support for the Sport Pilot concept, but I sensed they didn’t yet accept LSA deep down. Minor questions remained. Today that seems convincingly gone. The same not-100%-certain leaders now chorus, “LSA is here to stay.” *** Evidence of that is again marshaling for AOPA’s season-ending event for general aviation. The D.C.-based organization now counts more than 413,000 members, more than two-thirds of all pilots on the FAA register. The traveling Expo show typically draws well from a region’s pilot population. Action starts October 4-6, 2007 at the Hartford-Brainard Airport (HFD). *** For the third year running AOPA is providing a grouped location for Light-Sport Aircraft right where you enter the airplane display area (SLSA exhibitor list under photo). Last year at AOPA’s event in Palm Springs, California, the densest crowds among all aircraft displays were around the LSA fleet.

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At Oshkosh I took the chance to speak with several general aviation leaders — CEOs of top general aviation companies and presidents of leading membership organizations. All have been kind to me with their time and generous with their support for the Sport Pilot concept, but I sensed they didn’t yet accept LSA deep down. Minor questions remained. Today that seems convincingly gone. The same not-100%-certain leaders now chorus, “LSA is here to stay.” *** Evidence of that is again marshaling for AOPA’s season-ending event for general aviation. The D.C.-based organization now counts more than 413,000 members, more than two-thirds of all pilots on the FAA register. The traveling Expo show typically draws well from a region’s pilot population. Action starts October 4-6, 2007 at the Hartford-Brainard Airport (HFD). *** For the third year running AOPA is providing a grouped location for Light-Sport Aircraft right where you enter the airplane display area (SLSA exhibitor list under photo).

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Sportsplanes Announces Arrival of New Breezer II

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Those able to attend AOPA’s Expo 2007 in Hartford, Connecticut can examine the new Breezer II in person, said Sportsplanes.com boss, Josh Foss (photo). Others may see Breezer II SLSA at Sportsplanes’ Sport Aircraft Regional Centers or SARCs.

The early reviews — mine included (report here) — were excellent. The Breezer design from Germany is a great flying aircraft. Then problems arose…though fortunately not with the airframe but with design rights and such. Now that those difficulties are resolved, new aircraft are again arriving in the U.S. “The new Breezers are here!” declared Josh Foss, head of Sportsplanes.com, a Utah-based organization with reps around the country. He plans to display the new Breezer model at the AOPA Expo in Connecticut October 4-6, 2007. *** Breezer II features a much larger baggage compartment, an enlarged panel, and heavy duty toe brakes that replace a handbrake lever. Josh added, “Breezer II is now being manufactured in a new 17,000 square foot facility in Germany that has been equipped with the latest in high tech machinery geared for large volume. The facilities include a private airstrip for flight testing. Expectations are to reach 100 aircraft annually by 2008.” Breezer II is a two-seat, low wing, all-aluminum LSA and joins the other airplanes in Sportsplanes.com’s line up.

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The early reviews — mine included (report here) — were excellent. The Breezer design from Germany is a great flying aircraft. Then problems arose…though fortunately not with the airframe but with design rights and such. Now that those difficulties are resolved, new aircraft are again arriving in the U.S. “The new Breezers are here!” declared Josh Foss, head of Sportsplanes.com, a Utah-based organization with reps around the country. He plans to display the new Breezer model at the AOPA Expo in Connecticut October 4-6, 2007. *** Breezer II features a much larger baggage compartment, an enlarged panel, and heavy duty toe brakes that replace a handbrake lever. Josh added, “Breezer II is now being manufactured in a new 17,000 square foot facility in Germany that has been equipped with the latest in high tech machinery geared for large volume. The facilities include a private airstrip for flight testing.

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September Market Share Update: 1,192 Registered

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As always, thanks to the Czech Light Aircraft Association‘s Jan Fridrich for the compilation of FAA data, a time consuming task he does faithfully each month. FAA registration data does not precisely equal customer deliveries.

FAA registration data through August show continued growth with another 58 SLSA listed for a total increase in 2007 of 557 aircraft (88%) in just eight months. The lone share change in the Top Twelve was CubCrafters rising another notch to 6th, pushing Fantasy Air down to 7th. CubCrafters has been rising steadily after their late entry, though they still significantly trail rival American Legend. *** Despite being a trike enthusiast, I’m amazed to observe the 15% share of all Special Light-Sport Aircraft that are weight shift control aircraft. France’s Air Creation and Australia’s AirBorne dominate the category with a registered 105 and 61 models respectively. Six trike models share the market. *** Powered parachutes have also done respectfully well in a few months with 5% of all SLSA registrations. Infinity (27 aircraft) and Powrachute (24) overshadow Summit (7). Both weight shift and powered parachutes benefit from lower purchase prices but also from a loyal base of pilots who enjoy these unorthodox flying machines. Having flown both, I suggest you keep an open mind until you sample them.

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FAA registration data through August show continued growth with another 58 SLSA listed for a total increase in 2007 of 557 aircraft (88%) in just eight months. The lone share change in the Top Twelve was CubCrafters rising another notch to 6th, pushing Fantasy Air down to 7th. CubCrafters has been rising steadily after their late entry, though they still significantly trail rival American Legend. *** Despite being a trike enthusiast, I’m amazed to observe the 15% share of all Special Light-Sport Aircraft that are weight shift control aircraft. France’s Air Creation and Australia’s AirBorne dominate the category with a registered 105 and 61 models respectively. Six trike models share the market. *** Powered parachutes have also done respectfully well in a few months with 5% of all SLSA registrations. Infinity (27 aircraft) and Powrachute (24) overshadow Summit (7).

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Urban Air USA Brings Lambada Closer

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As a soaring enthusiast, I’m one of those excited to see this handsome Czech airplane arriving in the USA. I expect to fly the Lambada at Sebring.

Bostik Industries is known to some LSA buyers as “the other supplier” of emergency ballistic parachute systems (Magnum). Indeed, that activity appears to be thriving as major producer BRS Parachutes intensifies its focus on larger GA airplanes and light jet projects. *** An affable Joe Bostik (airline captain and champion hang glider pilot) is also the U.S. agent for the shapely Lambada motorglider. Though soaring pilots will be instantly drawn to this reasonably priced motorglider (less than $100,000; other choices can cost much more), the airplane also works as a cross country cruiser, able to fly 800 nautical miles at speeds of 100 mph. Though Rotax 9-series engines offer great reliability, should the powerplant go quiet, a Lambada pilot can glide up to six miles from only 1,000 feet off the ground. Bostik now has his Lamabada website well populated with info, specs, and photos. You’ll have to wait until Sebring’s 2008 LSA Expo to see one up close, but you can start tempting yourself now.

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Bostik Industries is known to some LSA buyers as “the other supplier” of emergency ballistic parachute systems (Magnum). Indeed, that activity appears to be thriving as major producer BRS Parachutes intensifies its focus on larger GA airplanes and light jet projects. *** An affable Joe Bostik (airline captain and champion hang glider pilot) is also the U.S. agent for the shapely Lambada motorglider. Though soaring pilots will be instantly drawn to this reasonably priced motorglider (less than $100,000; other choices can cost much more), the airplane also works as a cross country cruiser, able to fly 800 nautical miles at speeds of 100 mph. Though Rotax 9-series engines offer great reliability, should the powerplant go quiet, a Lambada pilot can glide up to six miles from only 1,000 feet off the ground. Bostik now has his Lamabada website well populated with info, specs, and photos.

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Old Becomes New…and Lowers the Cost of LSA

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I flew the Sport Hornet at Oshkosh 2007 (watch for the upcoming report in EAA’s Sport Pilot). It’s been reevaluated and numerous changes made (design details), among them the potent R-912S. Robert Gaither (left) is the head of Higher Class Aviation, but he’s proud to have staff members like aerospace engineer, Matthew Gregory.

Sport Hornet is the second fixed wing “ultralight” to make the jump to Special Light-Sport Aircraft certification.* Some consider Hornet a “true ultralight” as it uses an aluminum tubing airframe. Builder Higher Class Aviation made numerous changes: The upside-down two-stroke Rotax 582 gave way to right-side-up four-stroke Rotax 9-series engines. Gross weight was increased. New dual struts brace dual wing spars. The cockpit is four inches wider and rear rudder pedals have more room. Conventional toe brakes are available. *** All these things are great but the best news may be base price for a reasonably well-equipped Sport Hornet with the 80-hp 912: $49,995. [UPDATE: 8/29/07 — HCA now gives buyers the 100-hp 912S for the same price!] And one more important thing: since Sport Hornet still flies like most ultralights it can continue to train pilots to fly other ultralight-type aircraft. After the final deadline of January 31, 2010, you’ll still be able to conduct training for hire in a Sport Hornet. *Just Aircraft’s welded steel Highlander was first, in March of 2006.

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Sport Hornet is the second fixed wing “ultralight” to make the jump to Special Light-Sport Aircraft certification.* Some consider Hornet a “true ultralight” as it uses an aluminum tubing airframe. Builder Higher Class Aviation made numerous changes: The upside-down two-stroke Rotax 582 gave way to right-side-up four-stroke Rotax 9-series engines. Gross weight was increased. New dual struts brace dual wing spars. The cockpit is four inches wider and rear rudder pedals have more room. Conventional toe brakes are available. *** All these things are great but the best news may be base price for a reasonably well-equipped Sport Hornet with the 80-hp 912: $49,995. [UPDATE: 8/29/07 — HCA now gives buyers the 100-hp 912S for the same price!] And one more important thing: since Sport Hornet still flies like most ultralights it can continue to train pilots to fly other ultralight-type aircraft. After the final deadline of January 31, 2010, you’ll still be able to conduct training for hire in a Sport Hornet.

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For Enthusiasts, Taildragger EuroFox Now Available

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Many pilots love the look of taildraggers; EuroFox now offers that configuration. Pilots also like folding wings. Over 235 EuroFox models have been built since 1990. Distributor-direct marketing keeps the price low at $59,590 (in mid-2007). More info?

EuroFox has remained one of the value price leaders among all 57 LSA models. Now, U.S. importer, Rollison Light Sport Aircraft announced that a taildragger version is available. Many experienced aviators feel a taildragger looks faster and has a more appealing appearance (though experience flying a taildragger is a plus). RLSA expressed, “EuroFox is ideal for recreational flying, but it is also a good touring aircraft within the LSA category and has a range of 600+ miles, a cruise speed up to 120 mph, and a climb rate of over 1,000 fpm with the 100 hp engine.” The taildragger version of the EuroFox has been available in Europe for several years. The 2007 version features a redesigned main landing gear of composite materials and has widely-spaced main wheels to improve crosswind characteristics and ground handling. To help you visit more airfields RLSA said, “The EuroFox taildragger features a new toe brake system and larger, heavy-duty tires.”

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EuroFox has remained one of the value price leaders among all 57 LSA models. Now, U.S. importer, Rollison Light Sport Aircraft announced that a taildragger version is available. Many experienced aviators feel a taildragger looks faster and has a more appealing appearance (though experience flying a taildragger is a plus). RLSA expressed, “EuroFox is ideal for recreational flying, but it is also a good touring aircraft within the LSA category and has a range of 600+ miles, a cruise speed up to 120 mph, and a climb rate of over 1,000 fpm with the 100 hp engine.” The taildragger version of the EuroFox has been available in Europe for several years. The 2007 version features a redesigned main landing gear of composite materials and has widely-spaced main wheels to improve crosswind characteristics and ground handling. To help you visit more airfields RLSA said, “The EuroFox taildragger features a new toe brake system and larger, heavy-duty tires.”

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Variety Inside Companies Adds to LSA Model Breadth

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

The Rally (top) is another U.S. built, Italian-designed aircraft. Watch for my upcoming pilot report in a future issue of EAA’s Sport Pilot magazine. The completely different SeaStorm is presently delayed while the company works to optimize the design for the LSA rules.

As if 57 models of Light-Sport Aircraft from 44 companies were not enough, some companies have unusual breadth in their product line and have models yet to introduce to Americans. Canada’s Skykits company offers several variations on their Savannah, but I refer to something different. Tecnam has two high wings and a low wing model, but all are built similarly. *** Looking at Storm Aircraft of Italy, we see a wide mixture. The all-composite, high wing, dual door Rally won SLSA approval in February 2006. Next will come the all-metal, low wing, forward-opening canopy Century. Finally, Prestige Aircraft — the U.S. integrator of components from Storm — hopes to launch the SeaStorm, their sleek amphibious entry. All three airplanes are outwardly distinct such that U.S. distributor Air Elite can offer very different choices. Sport Aircraft Works — U.S. distributor for Czech Aircraft Works — offers similar design diversity though their planes are all-metal. So many choices…not enough money to buy them all.

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As if 57 models of Light-Sport Aircraft from 44 companies were not enough, some companies have unusual breadth in their product line and have models yet to introduce to Americans. Canada’s Skykits company offers several variations on their Savannah, but I refer to something different. Tecnam has two high wings and a low wing model, but all are built similarly. *** Looking at Storm Aircraft of Italy, we see a wide mixture. The all-composite, high wing, dual door Rally won SLSA approval in February 2006. Next will come the all-metal, low wing, forward-opening canopy Century. Finally, Prestige Aircraft — the U.S. integrator of components from Storm — hopes to launch the SeaStorm, their sleek amphibious entry. All three airplanes are outwardly distinct such that U.S. distributor Air Elite can offer very different choices. Sport Aircraft Works — U.S.

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Art-Engineering Fusion in the Shark

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Computer-Aided Design is now so common we know it simply as CAD, but it allows great precision in the conceptual as well as manufacturing phase (CAM), as this fascinating perspective shows. Shark mockup builder and interior stylist Peto Zelman is seen at Aero 2007, flanked by designer, Jaro Dostal.

Recognize that tail? You’ve seen it twice before on designs that earned Special Light-Sport Aircraft approval: Interplane’s Skyboy and FlyItalia’s Sport Rider. Designer Jaro Dostal’s signature is the shark fin vertical stabilizer. Skyboy is sold in the U.S. by LSA America. SportRider (MD-3 Rider in Europe) is not presently available in the USA. *** Now from the fertile mind of Dostal comes the Shark. It will be produced by Comp-Let, a producer of composite parts for many companies including Diamond, Aeropro, and FK Lightplanes. Jaro’s design bureau is leading the development effort. “SportShark will fit LSA rules with a larger wing, simpler flaps, fixed landing gear and prop,” declared Comp-Let. “We are finishing the aerodynamic design calculations (forces, structure, stability). Designers prepared a cockpit mockup. We have started to work on a fuselage model. The plan is to fly a prototype by spring 2008. Serial production will start gradually by summer.” Shark is but one example of a new LSA as the industry continues its acceleration. Keep clicking ByDanJohnson.com for more…

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Recognize that tail? You’ve seen it twice before on designs that earned Special Light-Sport Aircraft approval: Interplane’s Skyboy and FlyItalia’s Sport Rider. Designer Jaro Dostal’s signature is the shark fin vertical stabilizer. Skyboy is sold in the U.S. by LSA America. SportRider (MD-3 Rider in Europe) is not presently available in the USA. *** Now from the fertile mind of Dostal comes the Shark. It will be produced by Comp-Let, a producer of composite parts for many companies including Diamond, Aeropro, and FK Lightplanes. Jaro’s design bureau is leading the development effort. “SportShark will fit LSA rules with a larger wing, simpler flaps, fixed landing gear and prop,” declared Comp-Let. “We are finishing the aerodynamic design calculations (forces, structure, stability). Designers prepared a cockpit mockup. We have started to work on a fuselage model. The plan is to fly a prototype by spring 2008.

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Flight Design Delivers 200th CT in USA

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

The father and son Tom Gutmann team (L-R, Junior and Senior) run Airtime Aviation, one of the country’s largest distributors of LSA. The new customer and dealer for New Mexico is Brian Longwill, a 767 captain and F-15/16 pilot. They all pose with CT number 200 in the USA.

Market leader Flight Design seems hot as a pistol and appears to be validating their plan to substantially increase production. South Central U.S. distributor Airtime Aviation delivered N200BL to Brian Longwill, their new dealer operating under the name Longwill AirCraft. And talk about beautiful timing, this also happened to be CT delivery number 50 for Airtime. Putting even a finer point on their accomplishments, Airtime got the first CT approved in the U.S., missing by mere hours being the first SLSA* in the country. *** Longwill AirCraft will base their new CT at a new airport opening in Estancia, New Mexico…east of Albuquerque and south of Moriarty. Longwill aims to attract sport aircraft of all kinds to the facility. *** Finally — call me lucky or call it a truly fine bit of advance planning, but this is also SPLOG #200. From the mail and calls I get, you love SPLOG and I’m pleased you do. Thanks for all your visits! *Honors for first SLSA go to the Sportstar.

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Market leader Flight Design seems hot as a pistol and appears to be validating their plan to substantially increase production. South Central U.S. distributor Airtime Aviation delivered N200BL to Brian Longwill, their new dealer operating under the name Longwill AirCraft. And talk about beautiful timing, this also happened to be CT delivery number 50 for Airtime. Putting even a finer point on their accomplishments, Airtime got the first CT approved in the U.S., missing by mere hours being the first SLSA* in the country. *** Longwill AirCraft will base their new CT at a new airport opening in Estancia, New Mexico…east of Albuquerque and south of Moriarty. Longwill aims to attract sport aircraft of all kinds to the facility. *** Finally — call me lucky or call it a truly fine bit of advance planning, but this is also SPLOG #200. From the mail and calls I get, you love SPLOG and I’m pleased you do.

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First LSA Flown Around World; Claims New Record

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

(Top) Rahul Monga and Anil Kumar, Air Force pilots from India, pose by their Flight Design CT shown against a backdrop of their flight plan map. (R) Monga, in survival suit, made the Atlantic crossing solo to allow more fuel. (L) Icebergs float in the Baffin Sea.

Many other airplane categories have tried round the world flights, but it’s now been done by a Light-Sport Aircraft. Flying a Flight Design CT, Indian Air Force Wing Commanders Rahul Monga and Anil Kumar will claim a new record by successfully flying around the world in 79 days. Part of a celebration of the Indian Air Force 75th Anniversary, the two pilots covered a total distance of 40,497 kilometers (25,310 miles) in 79 days flying over 19 countries (Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Russia, USA, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, UK, Germany, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, and India).*** During the expedition, Commander Monga became part of very small group of pilots by soloing across the Atlantic in a single engine aircraft. Kumar had to go via airline so the CT could fly longer. Despite missing this exciting segment Kumar expressed appreciation for the CT: “It’s a fantastic machine, very reliable…it got us home and there were no problems. We had good support from the manufacturer.” *** The duo and their CT weren’t far away from AirVenture Oshkosh 2007 but weather had delayed them and they elected to pass the big event in order to stay on the record attempt.

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Many other airplane categories have tried round the world flights, but it’s now been done by a Light-Sport Aircraft. Flying a Flight Design CT, Indian Air Force Wing Commanders Rahul Monga and Anil Kumar will claim a new record by successfully flying around the world in 79 days. Part of a celebration of the Indian Air Force 75th Anniversary, the two pilots covered a total distance of 40,497 kilometers (25,310 miles) in 79 days flying over 19 countries (Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Russia, USA, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, UK, Germany, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, and India).*** During the expedition, Commander Monga became part of very small group of pilots by soloing across the Atlantic in a single engine aircraft. Kumar had to go via airline so the CT could fly longer. Despite missing this exciting segment Kumar expressed appreciation for the CT: “It’s a fantastic machine, very reliable…it got us home and there were no problems.

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