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Come See Them All…at the Sebring LSA Expo

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

See — and fly! — the industry leading Light-Sport Aircraft from all across the nation. The season-opening airshow has high wings, low wings, mid-wings, flex wings, ‘chute wings, rotary wings, and more.

We’re down to the last week before the 2007 Sebring LSA Expo kicks off a new year in sport aviation. In attendance will be every market-leading airplane and some in the works. One of the most watched of these is the Cessna LSA. The company is still working on their “business case,” a formal plan for the Textron board to allow them to consider Cessna’s proposed entry to the world of Light-Sport Aircraft. But while the Wichita giant makes its decision key Cessna people will staff the company’s exhibit at Sebring…virtually sealing the case for the Expo being an important event on the LSA calendar. Sun ‘n Fun has also bought space to promote their full airshow in April. EAA will be hosting a whole series of forums. LAMA will holds its annual member meeting. And other groups will gather. Media people are asking for credentials. Bob Wood and his team are ready for a crowd at this season-opening trade show. Let’s go flying!

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We’re down to the last week before the 2007 Sebring LSA Expo kicks off a new year in sport aviation. In attendance will be every market-leading airplane and some in the works. One of the most watched of these is the Cessna LSA. The company is still working on their “business case,” a formal plan for the Textron board to allow them to consider Cessna’s proposed entry to the world of Light-Sport Aircraft. But while the Wichita giant makes its decision key Cessna people will staff the company’s exhibit at Sebring…virtually sealing the case for the Expo being an important event on the LSA calendar. Sun ‘n Fun has also bought space to promote their full airshow in April. EAA will be hosting a whole series of forums. LAMA will holds its annual member meeting. And other groups will gather. Media people are asking for credentials.

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Personal Blimp Uses Hot Air & Electric Motor

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Using no helium, Skyacht’s “Personal Blimp” is “a lighter-than-air foldable airship” that can manuever in ways to make it a potential working aircraft. See it fly in a short video that demonstrates it’s ability to turn tightly.

OK, so it’s a variation of hot air balloon with steering capability. It isn’t a LSA. But, given my fascination with airships, I see Dan Nachbar’s and Mike Kuehlmuss’ Skyacht effort as a neat project. *** Named after the aviation pioneer, Alberto (Santos-Dumont) is not a pure hot air balloon as it uses aluminum tubes and a tension line to add rigidity. Twin burners create hot air as the lifting medium. Presently a gas engine drives and maneuvers Alberto, but a quieter electric motor is planned. Alberto first flew in October 2006 and has logged more than 10 hours. It can be folded something like an umbrella so the 102-foot long, 70-foot wide envelope plus its gondola fit in a 24-foot car trailer. Cost: somewhere between $100,000 and $200,000 which is tons less than the cheapest helium blimp at about $2 million. *** I thought this a light hearted topic with which to end 2006. Happy New Year! UPDATE…Jan. 3, 2007 — After the SPLOG was posted, Dan Nachbar added this response. “We very much hope to build a light-sport version some day. However, the FAA botched the Light Sport rule when it comes to LTA by limiting the max weight to an impossibly low 660 lbs. That’s why you haven’t seen any Light Sport LTA yet. The FAA says they recognize the problem and will fix it ‘real soon now.'”

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OK, so it’s a variation of hot air balloon with steering capability. It isn’t a LSA. But, given my fascination with airships, I see Dan Nachbar’s and Mike Kuehlmuss’ Skyacht effort as a neat project. *** Named after the aviation pioneer, Alberto (Santos-Dumont) is not a pure hot air balloon as it uses aluminum tubes and a tension line to add rigidity. Twin burners create hot air as the lifting medium. Presently a gas engine drives and maneuvers Alberto, but a quieter electric motor is planned. Alberto first flew in October 2006 and has logged more than 10 hours. It can be folded something like an umbrella so the 102-foot long, 70-foot wide envelope plus its gondola fit in a 24-foot car trailer. Cost: somewhere between $100,000 and $200,000 which is tons less than the cheapest helium blimp at about $2 million. *** I thought this a light hearted topic with which to end 2006.

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“SLSA Coming February 2006” — AirBorne 912 XT

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A proud Terri Sipantzi poses by his newly approved Experimental Light Sport Aircraft (ELSA) AirBorne XT912 with Streak III wing. For info on AirBorne’s coming SLSA, email Terri.

In mid-May 2005 SPLOG announced the weight-shift aircraft ASTM standards were done. Indeed, they were, but implementation was stopped with a lengthy appeal. After a 40-page defense, the appeal was subsequently overturned and the specification was again put up for vote. This time it passed, and trikes finally have a standard. AirBorne’s XT series trikes are already certified to government standards in Australia so the down-under company should qualify for SLSA with relative ease. After the new standard was confirmed, Eastern U.S. AirBorne rep’ Terri Sipantzi of Precision Windsports reported, “AirBorne is now taking orders on SLSA XT-912s for delivery in February.” He encourages potential customers to lock in 2005 prices with an order and deposit placed now. The race begins to see which trike will be first with an SLSA certificate.

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In mid-May 2005 SPLOG announced the weight-shift aircraft ASTM standards were done. Indeed, they were, but implementation was stopped with a lengthy appeal. After a 40-page defense, the appeal was subsequently overturned and the specification was again put up for vote. This time it passed, and trikes finally have a standard. AirBorne’s XT series trikes are already certified to government standards in Australia so the down-under company should qualify for SLSA with relative ease. After the new standard was confirmed, Eastern U.S. AirBorne rep’ Terri Sipantzi of Precision Windsports reported, “AirBorne is now taking orders on SLSA XT-912s for delivery in February.” He encourages potential customers to lock in 2005 prices with an order and deposit placed now. The race begins to see which trike will be first with an SLSA certificate.

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Newest SLSA (#18) is Italy’s Sky Arrow

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Pilots seeking a good flying, reasonably priced airplane now have another choice. Sky Arrow will retail in the mid-$60,000 range, says Hansen Air Group. Some 200 are flying worldwide with 25 in America. Read my Report on the 80-hp Sky Arrow.

The count of Special Light Sport Aircraft rose another notch, to 18 certified models, with the addition on November 4th of the Italian Sky Arrow design built by Iniziative Industriali Italiane, or simply 3I. Hansen Air Group boss, Jon Hansen — well known for his promotion of the also-Italian Tecnam aircraft — reported the news while displaying the Tecnam Bravo at the AOPA Expo, which concluded today. (The big organization’s annual convention featured 15 Light Sport Aircraft in a special area arranged through LAMA.) Sky Arrow has previously achieved a tougher certification, that of FAA’s Part 23, so the SLSA achievement may be taken in stride by those who know the design. More surprising is that the Hansen Air Group, with representation on east and west coast, has now brought four aircraft into the SLSA fold…more than any other importer or U.S. manufacturer. Jon indicated that his company would put additional focus on the Sky Arrow due to its excellent value.

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The count of Special Light Sport Aircraft rose another notch, to 18 certified models, with the addition on November 4th of the Italian Sky Arrow design built by Iniziative Industriali Italiane, or simply 3I. Hansen Air Group boss, Jon Hansen — well known for his promotion of the also-Italian Tecnam aircraft — reported the news while displaying the Tecnam Bravo at the AOPA Expo, which concluded today. (The big organization’s annual convention featured 15 Light Sport Aircraft in a special area arranged through LAMA.) Sky Arrow has previously achieved a tougher certification, that of FAA’s Part 23, so the SLSA achievement may be taken in stride by those who know the design. More surprising is that the Hansen Air Group, with representation on east and west coast, has now brought four aircraft into the SLSA fold…more than any other importer or U.S. manufacturer. Jon indicated that his company would put additional focus on the Sky Arrow due to its excellent value.

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AirBorne Joins the SLSA Weight-Shift Ranks

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My good friend Gerry Charlebois flies vacationers and others over the beautiful Hawaiian island of Kauai (he’s flown over 10,000 folks!). He loves his XT912 and gives high points to AirBorne for service.

On St. Patrick’s Day, Friday March 17th, 2006, the AirBorne XT912 became the second brand of trike ever to join a very exclusive club. East Coast dealer, Terri Sipantzi, reported, “We gave birth to AirBorne’s first SLSA last night at 10:30 p.m., PST. An AirBorne XT912 registered as N-912PW was issued its Special Light-Sport Aircraft airworthiness certificate by Brian Carpenter of Rainbow Aviation.” The down-under brand has worked hard to establish an American following and they have for years met a demanding Australian certification standard, so no one is surprised that they were able to show compliance with the ASTM rules. You can read my flight review of the AirBorne XT912 in EAA’s Sport Pilot magazine for February 2006. We’ll be posting the article here (some 90 days after first publication). Congratulations to AirBorne and their U.S. team in becoming the 30th SLSA to meet FAA-approved standards.

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On St. Patrick’s Day, Friday March 17th, 2006, the AirBorne XT912 became the second brand of trike ever to join a very exclusive club. East Coast dealer, Terri Sipantzi, reported, “We gave birth to AirBorne’s first SLSA last night at 10:30 p.m., PST. An AirBorne XT912 registered as N-912PW was issued its Special Light-Sport Aircraft airworthiness certificate by Brian Carpenter of Rainbow Aviation.” The down-under brand has worked hard to establish an American following and they have for years met a demanding Australian certification standard, so no one is surprised that they were able to show compliance with the ASTM rules. You can read my flight review of the AirBorne XT912 in EAA’s Sport Pilot magazine for February 2006. We’ll be posting the article here (some 90 days after first publication). Congratulations to AirBorne and their U.S. team in becoming the 30th SLSA to meet FAA-approved standards.

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AirBorne Wins the Tour de France…Again

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Two imported trikes (AirBorne and Air Creation) are leaders in the U.S. market but both have a presence in many other countries. You are invited to read my report on the AirBorne XT 912.

Lance Armstrong helped Americans become familiar with the major French bicycle race by winning seven times. Now a Frenchman is making a name for Australian trike maker AirBorne among French pilots. AirBorne’s French distributor won the Microlight Tour de France for the second year running aboard his Airborne XT-912 mated to the Streak 3 wing. Serge and Genevieve Bouchet operate Veliplane ULM Paris, one of the largest microlight schools in France doing both weight shift and three axis training. The Tour de France routes pilots around the country as they navigate and race against each other. *** Airborne won French approval for their entire trike line and two years ago Airborne achieved a milestone earning British CAA acceptance for the XT-912. “So far, we are the only import trike manufacturer allowed to sell ready-to-fly aircraft into the UK market,” said the Australian builder. AirBorne XT 912 has also won SLSA airworthiness in the USA as number 30 on our SLSA List. *** Merry Christmas from ByDanJohnson.com!

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Lance Armstrong helped Americans become familiar with the major French bicycle race by winning seven times. Now a Frenchman is making a name for Australian trike maker AirBorne among French pilots. AirBorne’s French distributor won the Microlight Tour de France for the second year running aboard his Airborne XT-912 mated to the Streak 3 wing. Serge and Genevieve Bouchet operate Veliplane ULM Paris, one of the largest microlight schools in France doing both weight shift and three axis training. The Tour de France routes pilots around the country as they navigate and race against each other. *** Airborne won French approval for their entire trike line and two years ago Airborne achieved a milestone earning British CAA acceptance for the XT-912. “So far, we are the only import trike manufacturer allowed to sell ready-to-fly aircraft into the UK market,” said the Australian builder. AirBorne XT 912 has also won SLSA airworthiness in the USA as number 30 on our SLSA List.

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LSA Mall On Again for AirVenture Oshkosh 2007

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One the highlights of the last two AirVenture Oshkosh shows has been the LSA Mall. Three dozen models are showcased where visitors can easily see them all in one location. A dedicated LSA Exhibit Area is in planning for the 2008 event. Photo courtesy EAA

For the past two years at their big airshow, EAA has provided an exceptional space to LSA manufacturers and importers. The LSA Mall — right next to show-central AeroShell Square — has attracted thousands of pilots and others interested in looking at all Light-Sport Aircraft in one location. Though the space EAA has offered for the LSA Mall is in great demand, they are using it to help showcase LSA for an unprecedented third year in a row! I took a call this morning from EAA President Tom Poberezny to confirm plans he and I discussed at AOPA’s November Expo in Palm Springs. EAA has hired show experts and engineers to assist them in planning changes for their huge event. Management will present ideas to their board in May and will formally announce a site plan at AirVenture 2007. Implementation for significant changes will start immediately after the show ends, Tom added. EAA has given much help to the emerging LSA segment and the association’s leadership continues to show with these plans.

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For the past two years at their big airshow, EAA has provided an exceptional space to LSA manufacturers and importers. The LSA Mall — right next to show-central AeroShell Square — has attracted thousands of pilots and others interested in looking at all Light-Sport Aircraft in one location. Though the space EAA has offered for the LSA Mall is in great demand, they are using it to help showcase LSA for an unprecedented third year in a row! I took a call this morning from EAA President Tom Poberezny to confirm plans he and I discussed at AOPA’s November Expo in Palm Springs. EAA has hired show experts and engineers to assist them in planning changes for their huge event. Management will present ideas to their board in May and will formally announce a site plan at AirVenture 2007. Implementation for significant changes will start immediately after the show ends, Tom added.

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Clicking Down to a Deadline for Ultralight Pilots

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Don’t wait until the last minute to request your records from USUA, ASC, or EAA. The number of requests is bound to accelerate as the deadline bears down on ultralight pilots.

So, you’re an ultralight pilot with many hours flying one of the great light airplanes that enjoyed the limelight long before Light-Sport Aircraft. Then FAA goes and creates a new class of pilot. Now, despite your pilot credential from USUA, ASC, or EAA, you have to go get a new one. Earning it involves a written test plus a flight check with oral exam…all of which you’ve already taken. “What sense does that make,” you ask? Point taken, but that flight has left the ground. You have to do it and you ought to do it soon. Why? Because if you act before January 31, 2007, you can at least get credit for all that time you’ve logged. What’s worse than having to pay to take tests for stuff you already know? How about having to go fly with an instructor to acquire the 20 hours it takes to qualify for a Sport Pilot certificate? (It isn’t called a “license.”) So, don’t wait. Click links under the photo. *** Of course, I hasten to add that Part 103 is not changing! Ultralights continue in their original definition.

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So, you’re an ultralight pilot with many hours flying one of the great light airplanes that enjoyed the limelight long before Light-Sport Aircraft. Then FAA goes and creates a new class of pilot. Now, despite your pilot credential from USUA, ASC, or EAA, you have to go get a new one. Earning it involves a written test plus a flight check with oral exam…all of which you’ve already taken. “What sense does that make,” you ask? Point taken, but that flight has left the ground. You have to do it and you ought to do it soon. Why? Because if you act before January 31, 2007, you can at least get credit for all that time you’ve logged. What’s worse than having to pay to take tests for stuff you already know? How about having to go fly with an instructor to acquire the 20 hours it takes to qualify for a Sport Pilot certificate?

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Sebring Expo #3 to Feature 100+ LSA

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Fly your plane. Drive your car. Or get on board an airliner. Whatever your transport, if you’re interested in Sport Pilot and Light-Sport Aircraft, I suggest you make your way to Sebring January 11-14, 2007.

You might think hurricanes in the first two years would dampen the spirit of the Sebring LSA Expo, but fortunately organizers have proven up to the task of building a new aviation event. Sebring overcame its weather challenges to become a significant show next occurring January 11-14, 2007. The U.S Sport Aviation Expo at Sebring, Florida is the country’s largest concentrated gathering of Light-Sport Aircraft. More than 100 aircraft are expected. Up 20% over last year, the exhibitor list is a who’s who of LSA manufacturers, importers, and suppliers. EAA hosts the forums which help explain the new rule. Company representatives make presentations. Media support is provided by Tampa Tribune and Channel 8 TV. “We don’t have jet powered trucks, but if you want to learn more about LSA, the exciting new segment of fun flying, or to get a demonstration ride, Sebring is the place to come,” said Sebring Expo boss, Bob Wood.

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You might think hurricanes in the first two years would dampen the spirit of the Sebring LSA Expo, but fortunately organizers have proven up to the task of building a new aviation event. Sebring overcame its weather challenges to become a significant show next occurring January 11-14, 2007. The U.S Sport Aviation Expo at Sebring, Florida is the country’s largest concentrated gathering of Light-Sport Aircraft. More than 100 aircraft are expected. Up 20% over last year, the exhibitor list is a who’s who of LSA manufacturers, importers, and suppliers. EAA hosts the forums which help explain the new rule. Company representatives make presentations. Media support is provided by Tampa Tribune and Channel 8 TV. “We don’t have jet powered trucks, but if you want to learn more about LSA, the exciting new segment of fun flying, or to get a demonstration ride, Sebring is the place to come,” said Sebring Expo boss, Bob Wood.

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Sport Pilot Tour Flying High at Concluding Stop

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The Sport Pilot Tour visited…near Sacramento, CA; St. Louis; near Pittsburg; Dallas; near Ventura, CA; near Phoenix; Atlanta; Nashville; near Chicago; near Minneapolis/St. Paul; near Boston; near Los Angeles; and finally, San Diego.

EAA’s Sport Pilot Tour ran its last presently scheduled event at Brown Field in San Diego, California on a beautiful December 9th. Based on registrations and vendor conversations, I estimate more than 700 interested people came out to see eighteen Light-Sport Aircraft models. Both numbers represent a zenith for the series that has gone coast to coast and back producing 13 events during 2005 and 2006. Literally thousands of pilots and newcomers were exposed to Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft through EAA’s popular tour. *** Brown Field distinguished itself in several ways: It was within a mile of the Mexican border. We shared the field with not one but two blimp operations. And, EAA Chapter 14 had the most intriguing facilities we’ve visited. Yet all participating EAA Chapters deserve another thanks for supplying facilities to host the tour plus volunteer labor without which these events could not have been done. LAMA members and industry professionals are equally grateful for EAA National’s support which has been considerable …financially, promotionally, and via staff expertise.

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EAA’s Sport Pilot Tour ran its last presently scheduled event at Brown Field in San Diego, California on a beautiful December 9th. Based on registrations and vendor conversations, I estimate more than 700 interested people came out to see eighteen Light-Sport Aircraft models. Both numbers represent a zenith for the series that has gone coast to coast and back producing 13 events during 2005 and 2006. Literally thousands of pilots and newcomers were exposed to Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft through EAA’s popular tour. *** Brown Field distinguished itself in several ways: It was within a mile of the Mexican border. We shared the field with not one but two blimp operations. And, EAA Chapter 14 had the most intriguing facilities we’ve visited. Yet all participating EAA Chapters deserve another thanks for supplying facilities to host the tour plus volunteer labor without which these events could not have been done.

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Sport Pilot Tour Revs High at Historic Flabob

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Like last year’s Sport Pilot Tour in Camarillo, California, yesterday’s event in Riverside proves the keen aviation interest in Southern California. Care to live at Flabob?

A fleet of shiny Special Light-Sport Aircraft assembled at historic Flabob Airport despite persistent high winds in the southwest. Under an usually clear blue sky, a record 17 models gathered at the vintage airport in Riverside, California. EAA promotional efforts attracted about 600 LSA-oriented attendees. Hosted by EAA Chapter 1 in their excellent facility provided through generosity of Poly Fiber developer Ray Stitts, a steady audience of 200 filled seats throughout the day to have their Sport Pilot questions answered by EAA expert Ron Wagner. One of the newest certified SLSA, the Luscombe Silveraire, is built at Flabob. Owner John Dearden showed me many dozens of pallets holding tooling dies once used to mass manufacture as many as 29 Luscombe aircraft per day! In the vast basin of LA cites, Flabob is an aviation oasis saved from home developers by the Tom Wathen Foundation which operates an aviation high school on airport grounds. Next week…on to Brown Field in San Diego for the Sport Pilot Tour Grand Finale.

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A fleet of shiny Special Light-Sport Aircraft assembled at historic Flabob Airport despite persistent high winds in the southwest. Under an usually clear blue sky, a record 17 models gathered at the vintage airport in Riverside, California. EAA promotional efforts attracted about 600 LSA-oriented attendees. Hosted by EAA Chapter 1 in their excellent facility provided through generosity of Poly Fiber developer Ray Stitts, a steady audience of 200 filled seats throughout the day to have their Sport Pilot questions answered by EAA expert Ron Wagner. One of the newest certified SLSA, the Luscombe Silveraire, is built at Flabob. Owner John Dearden showed me many dozens of pallets holding tooling dies once used to mass manufacture as many as 29 Luscombe aircraft per day! In the vast basin of LA cites, Flabob is an aviation oasis saved from home developers by the Tom Wathen Foundation which operates an aviation high school on airport grounds.

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Strong Finale to Sport Pilot Tour Series

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Come see as many as 20 beautiful LSA available at two fascinating Southern California airports. EAA President Tom Poberezny is expected at the Riverside event on December 2nd.

The first of two EAA Sport Pilot Tour stops will occur December 2nd at the famous Flabob Airport in Riverside, California. One weekend later on December 9th the last of the series will be hosted by Brown Field in San Diego. Both events appear ready to break all records for the number of display airplanes. Unless weather prevents some, I expect Riverside and San Diego could see as many as 20 LSA. These small-venue events allow close examination and more time with suppliers than large shows where crowds are too thick to let vendors visit at length with potential buyers. Demo flights are also available. And EAA will present a schedule of seminars nearly all day long, helping to explain the new Sport Pilot rule and to answer questions from the hundreds of LSA enthusiasts that attend. If you live in the southwest U.S., here is your best chance to see a gathering of top Light-Sport Aircraft models. Come on out. It’s free to all.

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The first of two EAA Sport Pilot Tour stops will occur December 2nd at the famous Flabob Airport in Riverside, California. One weekend later on December 9th the last of the series will be hosted by Brown Field in San Diego. Both events appear ready to break all records for the number of display airplanes. Unless weather prevents some, I expect Riverside and San Diego could see as many as 20 LSA. These small-venue events allow close examination and more time with suppliers than large shows where crowds are too thick to let vendors visit at length with potential buyers. Demo flights are also available. And EAA will present a schedule of seminars nearly all day long, helping to explain the new Sport Pilot rule and to answer questions from the hundreds of LSA enthusiasts that attend. If you live in the southwest U.S., here is your best chance to see a gathering of top Light-Sport Aircraft models.

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Cessna Visit; Checking Progress Toward Their LSA

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After engineers were satisfied with initial flight results, the proof of concept Cessna LSA has accumulated more than a dozen flights and continues its remarkably fast development.

Yesterday, I paid a visit to Cessna Aircraft and was generously hosted by John Doman, their VP of worldwide prop aircraft sales, Roger Martin, director of prop marketing, and Darren Jones, one of Cessna’s LSA Core Team members and a principal author of the business case being prepared to show Cessna and Textron management why proceeding with the LSA is advised. Leaders are still grappling with several challenges but one aspect has been confirmed. Through potential customer research and by talking to their 400 Cessna Pilot Centers and their dozens of STAR dealers, Cessna has become certain of the market for an LSA. You may already be convinced of this but the world’s largest airplane builder has data to prove their conclusion…such as 3,300 qualified customer surveys from those distributed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. We were also given a tour of their jet manufacturing in one of the largest buildings in the state of Kansas. In addition to lots of prop planes, Cessna leads all companies in bizjet production, putting more than 300 a year out the door.

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Yesterday, I paid a visit to Cessna Aircraft and was generously hosted by John Doman, their VP of worldwide prop aircraft sales, Roger Martin, director of prop marketing, and Darren Jones, one of Cessna’s LSA Core Team members and a principal author of the business case being prepared to show Cessna and Textron management why proceeding with the LSA is advised. Leaders are still grappling with several challenges but one aspect has been confirmed. Through potential customer research and by talking to their 400 Cessna Pilot Centers and their dozens of STAR dealers, Cessna has become certain of the market for an LSA. You may already be convinced of this but the world’s largest airplane builder has data to prove their conclusion…such as 3,300 qualified customer surveys from those distributed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. We were also given a tour of their jet manufacturing in one of the largest buildings in the state of Kansas.

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Sky Skooter Makes Two SLSA for IndUS

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Sky Skooter’s great economy may help IndUS penetrate the developing market in India. IndUS boss, Ram Pattisapu, travels frequently to build the company’s second base in Bangalore. Email IndUS. Read my T-211 report.

Dallas, Texas-based IndUS Aviation earned their second SLSA model approval with certification of the T-11 Sky Skooter. Powered by the four cylinder, 85-hp Jabiru 2200, Sky Skooter becomes the lighter sibling to the potent Thorpedo, which uses the 120-hp Jabiru 3300 on the same airframe. Compared to IndUS’s T-211 with the Continental O-200 engine, the smaller Jabiru saves 100 pounds. Fuel burn is stated as 4 gph at economy cruise. At the design’s birth in 1944, Sky Skooter was designed around a 50-hp Franklin engine. With the lighter engine, the 2006 Sky Skooter tips the scales at a modest “645 pounds empty,” commented Ram Pattisapu, owner of IndUS. That is less than most Light-Sport Aircraft and brings pleasant handling as I found in a short flight in the prototype Sky Skooter. I find it refreshing to see a company use a smaller powerplant and simpler aircraft. But I ask the same question as with the Skykits Savannah ADV: Is Sky Skooter a “new” model for our SLSA List?

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Dallas, Texas-based IndUS Aviation earned their second SLSA model approval with certification of the T-11 Sky Skooter. Powered by the four cylinder, 85-hp Jabiru 2200, Sky Skooter becomes the lighter sibling to the potent Thorpedo, which uses the 120-hp Jabiru 3300 on the same airframe. Compared to IndUS’s T-211 with the Continental O-200 engine, the smaller Jabiru saves 100 pounds. Fuel burn is stated as 4 gph at economy cruise. At the design’s birth in 1944, Sky Skooter was designed around a 50-hp Franklin engine. With the lighter engine, the 2006 Sky Skooter tips the scales at a modest “645 pounds empty,” commented Ram Pattisapu, owner of IndUS. That is less than most Light-Sport Aircraft and brings pleasant handling as I found in a short flight in the prototype Sky Skooter. I find it refreshing to see a company use a smaller powerplant and simpler aircraft. But I ask the same question as with the Skykits Savannah ADV: Is Sky Skooter a “new” model for our SLSA List?

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Dynamic LSA Industry…Staying Informed!

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For my talk to a standing room only crowd at AOPA’s 2006 Expo in Palm Springs, I created this graphic. Info was collected from LAMA members by GAMA for an FAA planning meeting; it compared well with my own count. Be advised: some shifting may occur.

To say the pace has been frenetic for professionals in the LSA industry is both understatement and nothing new to those involved. Most LSA pros are working “day and night” (as one put it) just to get all the work done. It makes for a very exciting time as well as an exhausting one. The chart to the side shows their progress in graphical form. Based on a measurement at the 18-month point, nine companies have made 80% of the SLSA deliveries. But companies that hardly factored in this count are beginning to ship and future shares are certain to change. Early leaders are well positioned to grow (even given Cessna’s possible LSA entry). *** To help you keep up with the warp speed developments, I am happy to introduce the “SLSA List” under the Light-Sport Aircraft tab. This new list is fully up-to-date and I’ll try to keep it so. Plus you can sort it many ways. And you can click to much more information, both on ByDanJohnson.com and on other websites. Go enjoy! It’s free to all visitors; just tell others where you saw it.

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To say the pace has been frenetic for professionals in the LSA industry is both understatement and nothing new to those involved. Most LSA pros are working “day and night” (as one put it) just to get all the work done. It makes for a very exciting time as well as an exhausting one. The chart to the side shows their progress in graphical form. Based on a measurement at the 18-month point, nine companies have made 80% of the SLSA deliveries. But companies that hardly factored in this count are beginning to ship and future shares are certain to change. Early leaders are well positioned to grow (even given Cessna’s possible LSA entry). *** To help you keep up with the warp speed developments, I am happy to introduce the “SLSA List” under the Light-Sport Aircraft tab. This new list is fully up-to-date and I’ll try to keep it so.

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Colyaer Amphib is Newest Floatplane SLSA

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Freedom is described as a carbon composite pusher powered by the 100-hp Rotax 912S. Wings and tail are detachable for trailer transport. Freedom is based priced at $123,000, a high figure among SLSA but amphibs are always substantially more expensive than land planes. More info: 256-355-1022 or email LSA Aero.

On the same day Van first flew his RV-12 LSA and on the same day AOPA’s Expo 2006 opened with a fleet of LSA on display, LSA Aero president Don Langford received #44 SLSA certification for the Freedom from Troy Hart of the Memphis FSDO (photo). The following week Decatur, Alabama-based LSA Aero delivered the first Freedom amphibian to its owner. Langford says the Freedom, part of a family of airplanes based on the design, “is the culmination of eight years of development by Colyaer of Pontevedra, Spain.” The Martin3 landplane and Gannet non-amphib seaplane share the same wing, cabin, tail, and fuselage down to the waterline, added Langford. *** Glide performance from the 40.3-foot wings is said to be 20:1 and this helps keep water runs to a reported 8 seconds. Empty weight with the amphibious gear is 854 pounds but LSA seaplanes can gross at 1,430 pounds yielding a respectable 576-pound useful load.

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On the same day Van first flew his RV-12 LSA and on the same day AOPA’s Expo 2006 opened with a fleet of LSA on display, LSA Aero president Don Langford received #44 SLSA certification for the Freedom from Troy Hart of the Memphis FSDO (photo). The following week Decatur, Alabama-based LSA Aero delivered the first Freedom amphibian to its owner. Langford says the Freedom, part of a family of airplanes based on the design, “is the culmination of eight years of development by Colyaer of Pontevedra, Spain.” The Martin3 landplane and Gannet non-amphib seaplane share the same wing, cabin, tail, and fuselage down to the waterline, added Langford. *** Glide performance from the 40.3-foot wings is said to be 20:1 and this helps keep water runs to a reported 8 seconds. Empty weight with the amphibious gear is 854 pounds but LSA seaplanes can gross at 1,430 pounds yielding a respectable 576-pound useful load.

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LSA Are a Big Hit at Palm Springs AOPA Expo

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Big crowds constantly roved through 20 LSA on display in beautiful Palm Springs, California.

The 2006 version of AOPA’s annual Expo was a watershed event for Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft, IMHO. Last year, at the Tampa, Florida Expo, pilots were interested in LSA but it seemed more curiosity…”Maybe these aircraft will interest me in the future,” was a common statement. At the Palm Springs, California event, interest was much sharper. Pilots were talking about buying. And many pilots who earned their Private but have only rented, or those who took some lessons but never finished were now looking hard. GA airplane costs prevented many from getting involved and those flying enthusiasts now perceived a solution to the expense: LSA. *** AOPA again generously gave free space to LSA suppliers and they accepted in droves. Last year we had a dozen LSA at Tampa. This year, we had 20 models, one fifth of all airplanes on display at Palm Springs. A seminar I gave on LSA as affordable aviation was SRO (standing room only); they packed the large room to hear the state of the LSA industry. What an exciting time to be involved with light aviation!

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The 2006 version of AOPA’s annual Expo was a watershed event for Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft, IMHO. Last year, at the Tampa, Florida Expo, pilots were interested in LSA but it seemed more curiosity…”Maybe these aircraft will interest me in the future,” was a common statement. At the Palm Springs, California event, interest was much sharper. Pilots were talking about buying. And many pilots who earned their Private but have only rented, or those who took some lessons but never finished were now looking hard. GA airplane costs prevented many from getting involved and those flying enthusiasts now perceived a solution to the expense: LSA. *** AOPA again generously gave free space to LSA suppliers and they accepted in droves. Last year we had a dozen LSA at Tampa. This year, we had 20 models, one fifth of all airplanes on display at Palm Springs. A seminar I gave on LSA as affordable aviation was SRO (standing room only); they packed the large room to hear the state of the LSA industry.

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AMD’s CH-601 XL Tops Off a Great 2005

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

With all the basic instruments you need, AMD’s CH 601 XL lists for $75,900 though you may be tempted with a long list of options. Read my Report on Zenith’s 601.

The newest Special Light-Sport Aircraft to win approval will help the industry close out a spectacular year. In 2005, starting only by mid-April, 23 designs have won their airworthiness certificate under the ASTM Consensus Standards. For the year, #23 goes to Aircraft Manufacturing and Development of Eastman, Georgia. The AMD Zodiac CH 601 XL is powered by the Continental engine and all of it is built in the USA. American A&P mechanics are very familiar with the O-200 engine, which assures availability of service across the country. Since the southeastern U.S. company also builds the FAA Part 23 certified Alarus four seater, they are assembling the 601 to that high standard (such process meets the ASTM standards). The all-metal design flies conventionally and has won praise for its handling and performance. The CH 601 is one of several designs by Chris Heintz, father of Mathieu Heintz, president of AMD.

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The newest Special Light-Sport Aircraft to win approval will help the industry close out a spectacular year. In 2005, starting only by mid-April, 23 designs have won their airworthiness certificate under the ASTM Consensus Standards. For the year, #23 goes to Aircraft Manufacturing and Development of Eastman, Georgia. The AMD Zodiac CH 601 XL is powered by the Continental engine and all of it is built in the USA. American A&P mechanics are very familiar with the O-200 engine, which assures availability of service across the country. Since the southeastern U.S. company also builds the FAA Part 23 certified Alarus four seater, they are assembling the 601 to that high standard (such process meets the ASTM standards). The all-metal design flies conventionally and has won praise for its handling and performance. The CH 601 is one of several designs by Chris Heintz, father of Mathieu Heintz, president of AMD.

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Colyaer Freedom; Impressive Amphib from Spain

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Freedom is one of a family of aircraft based on the fuselage. Martin3 is a land version and Gannet is a straight boat-hull plane with no wheels. Email Colyaer USA.

At big airshows with thousands present, it’s easy to miss one sharp airplane. When I completely missed Sun ‘n Fun 2006, I also lost my second chance to examine the Colyaer Freedom amphib. But the airshow judges were on the job. Colyaer’s amphibious Freedom won Best Composite Seaplane. The same model also won a take-off award. “We were averaging 6 to 8 seconds, even with two people,” said Colyaer’s U.S. importer, Don Langford. *** The Colyaer designs boast some strong performance numbers. In particular, glide is reported at 20:1 and sink rate at 300 fpm. These reach up into sailplane figures but 40.6 feet of span and wing area of 130 square feet surely help…a land version claims 23:1 and only a 240 fpm sink rate! Freedom is built entirely from composite materials (carbon, kevlar, and fiberglass) except for a few metal parts. Colyaer hails from Spain.

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At big airshows with thousands present, it’s easy to miss one sharp airplane. When I completely missed Sun ‘n Fun 2006, I also lost my second chance to examine the Colyaer Freedom amphib. But the airshow judges were on the job. Colyaer’s amphibious Freedom won Best Composite Seaplane. The same model also won a take-off award. “We were averaging 6 to 8 seconds, even with two people,” said Colyaer’s U.S. importer, Don Langford. *** The Colyaer designs boast some strong performance numbers. In particular, glide is reported at 20:1 and sink rate at 300 fpm. These reach up into sailplane figures but 40.6 feet of span and wing area of 130 square feet surely help…a land version claims 23:1 and only a 240 fpm sink rate! Freedom is built entirely from composite materials (carbon, kevlar, and fiberglass) except for a few metal parts. Colyaer hails from Spain.

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Swoopy Nexaer LS1 Takes to the Air

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

The LS1 is, as its name implies, the first offering from Nexaer. Besides its sweeping fuselage, the LS1 boasts the widest cabin among LSA. The 54-inch-wide cockpit is nearly a foot broader than a Cessna 172. Email Nexaer.

On October 16th, Nexaer took a first flight in their new LS1, an LSA designed precisely for Sport Pilot. Lifting off at Meadow Lake Airport in Peyton, Colorado, test pilot Bill VonDane followed a conservative test plan of crow hopping just a few feet above the runway, setting back down on the far end. Nexaer boss Paul Klahn plans to show the new model in the LSA area of AOPA Expo in Palm Springs Nov. 9-11. *** LS1 grosses at 1,320 lbs., has a 750-lb. empty weight (depending on options), 27 gallons of fuel, and each seat is a generous 21 inches wide. Nexaer says engine choices include two Jabiru models, Rotax 912, Continental O-200, or Lycoming O-235 (though the latter may cut useful load). LS1 is described as a “no-flap design for…reduced pilot workload.” Dual full controls are available, but standard left-seat-only controls produce an interior more closely resembling an automobile.

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On October 16th, Nexaer took a first flight in their new LS1, an LSA designed precisely for Sport Pilot. Lifting off at Meadow Lake Airport in Peyton, Colorado, test pilot Bill VonDane followed a conservative test plan of crow hopping just a few feet above the runway, setting back down on the far end. Nexaer boss Paul Klahn plans to show the new model in the LSA area of AOPA Expo in Palm Springs Nov. 9-11. *** LS1 grosses at 1,320 lbs., has a 750-lb. empty weight (depending on options), 27 gallons of fuel, and each seat is a generous 21 inches wide. Nexaer says engine choices include two Jabiru models, Rotax 912, Continental O-200, or Lycoming O-235 (though the latter may cut useful load). LS1 is described as a “no-flap design for…reduced pilot workload.” Dual full controls are available, but standard left-seat-only controls produce an interior more closely resembling an automobile.

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