ByDanJohnson.com

Affordable and Capable: Merlin Lite
sponsored by Aeromarine-LSA.com

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

A Day In The Office

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

“…through footless halls of air…”

Hard at work: Jim Lee, left, and me

Ready for sky: Phoenix with the long wing extensions.

Climb over 1000 fpm at 57 knots

A beautiful Rotax 912 ULS (100hp) installation

Wonderful aerodynamic lines and just plain beautiful.

Nothing like getting some air. *** Thanks to Jim Lee of Phoenix Air USA, I finally had my desire: Jim and I flew the fabulous new Phoenix LSA motorglider, with both wingtips (max span: 49 feet!) out of his home base at Melbourne International Airport, Florida, and I have to say simply this: it cured my winter blues.Or to paraphrase Renée Zellwegger, “Shut up. Just shut up. You had me at liftoff.” *** To say the Phoenix lives up to its advance billing is understatement, plain and simple: it’s a wonderful airplane for anybody who desires to have friendly Light-Sport handling (2 second roll rate, 45° to 45°), wonderful engine-off soaring performance (200 fpm sink rate), excellent and comfortable XC cruise (100 knots at 75%), comfortable, semi-reclined seats, great visibility with the sleek bubble canopy and forward rake of the cowl, beautiful lines, wonderful engine package… need I go on?I’ll let the pix do the talking for now. Expect my flight report in Plane & Pilot magazine soon. *** Tomorrow… Sebring 2011 Light-Sport Expo! *** Stay tuned for my daily reports. The rumors be flyin’ about lots of exciting new developments in what we all hope is a move-up year for the economy, and the aviation industry.

Compress Post ...

Nothing like getting some air. *** Thanks to Jim Lee of Phoenix Air USA, I finally had my desire: Jim and I flew the fabulous new Phoenix LSA motorglider, with both wingtips (max span: 49 feet!) out of his home base at Melbourne International Airport, Florida, and I have to say simply this: it cured my winter blues.Or to paraphrase Renée Zellwegger, “Shut up. Just shut up. You had me at liftoff.” *** To say the Phoenix lives up to its advance billing is understatement, plain and simple: it’s a wonderful airplane for anybody who desires to have friendly Light-Sport handling (2 second roll rate, 45° to 45°), wonderful engine-off soaring performance (200 fpm sink rate), excellent and comfortable XC cruise (100 knots at 75%), comfortable, semi-reclined seats, great visibility with the sleek bubble canopy and forward rake of the cowl, beautiful lines, wonderful engine package… need I go on?I’ll let the pix do the talking for now.

Expand Post ...

Irony in 2010 Market Share Report

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

You just have to marvel how a dynamic new industry unfolds. No matter your level of expertise — in or out of government, large or small private organization, or even as an individual guru — no one can exactly foretell the future of the grand experiment we call Light-Sport aviation. *** So, what’s the irony? After all the years I’ve released the results of Jan Fridrich’s laborious market share assessments using FAA data, one company has finally displaced perpetual #2 producer, American Legend. The star that rose is, of course, Piper, who not quite one year ago announced they would distribute the then-Sport Cruiser. That model (with its own winding tale) had done respectably well on its own and Piper’s legacy brand brought an impressive growth spurt even during a very weak economy. Yet, even as Piper rose from 6th place last year to dislodge the Legend Cub producer, the Vero Beach outfit ended their relationship with Czech Sport Aircraft. Who could’ve predicted that… in less than one year’s time? Many eyebrows were raised at the revelation. *** The news story continues to unfold with PiperSport/SportCruiser dealers forming an association to continue U.S. sales and service. I’ll have more on that development after Sebring, which starts tomorrow. *** Meanwhile, Czech Sport Aircraft released news saying that they concur with the Piper statement that spoke to a difference in company philosophy, adding that CSA wishes “to continue to distribute CSA aircraft worldwide and does not want to focus on the US market only.” CSA also reports that the name PiperSport will change to SuperCruiser. Update 2/6/11 — The name change won’t happen, says U.S. Sport Aviation, the company taking over from Piper. They’ll continue to represent the SportCruiser. —DJ *** In other noteworthy changes, Cessna has now risen to 13th from not being on the chart at the end of 2009. CubCrafters rose from 5th to 4th. As these changes occurred, Tecnam slipped from 3rd to 5th and Remos from 4th to 6th, both leading producers reflecting the challenges of a troubled economy. However, Aerotrek continued its deliberate but steady rise from 12th to 11th and TL Ultralight distributor SportairUSA rose from 10th to 9th (a technical position as it rose to tie AMD, which changed hands and is now known as Eastman Aircraft). *** SportairUSA started representing the Zlin model that it rebadged as the iCub. A related story is Jabiru USA and Arion. The latter has 11 registered SLSA joining a growing fleet of some 80 kits. Though legally organized as two companies, the sibling companies complement one another and if joined as one, have registered 108 SLSA, enough to allow them to join the exclusive “Century Club” of builders that have exceeded 100 units registered.

Compress Post ...

You just have to marvel how a dynamic new industry unfolds. No matter your level of expertise — in or out of government, large or small private organization, or even as an individual guru — no one can exactly foretell the future of the grand experiment we call Light-Sport aviation. *** So, what’s the irony? After all the years I’ve released the results of Jan Fridrich’s laborious market share assessments using FAA data, one company has finally displaced perpetual #2 producer, American Legend. The star that rose is, of course, Piper, who not quite one year ago announced they would distribute the then-Sport Cruiser. That model (with its own winding tale) had done respectably well on its own and Piper’s legacy brand brought an impressive growth spurt even during a very weak economy. Yet, even as Piper rose from 6th place last year to dislodge the Legend Cub producer, the Vero Beach outfit ended their relationship with Czech Sport Aircraft.

Expand Post ...

Piper Tells PiperSport Maker: “CzechMate!”

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

In a tersely worded and OMG-style announcement, Piper Aircraft today said today it “will terminate its business relationship with Czech Republic-based Czech Sport Aircraft to market that company’s Light Sport Aircraft, citing differences in business philosophies.” *** Piper’s CEO Geoffrey Berger said, “After a year working with Czech Sport Aircraft, Piper determined that it is in our company’s best long-term interests to discontinue the business relationship…Clearly, the company (i.e. Piper) has a different business perspective and approach to the market than Czech Sport Aircraft,” he added. *** Piper excited the LSA world with its announcement last year, when helmed by former CEO Kevin Gould, that it would virtually take over rebadging, and upgrading, the popular but problem-plagued Czech Sport Aircraft SportCruiser, a beautiful and popular aircraft. *** “We at Piper have a close affinity with this emerging segment of the marketplace,” Berger continued, “and we have great expectations for the LSA industry. The LSA we were distributing is a good one and we encourage aviation enthusiasts to continue their support of this segment of the market,” Berger added. *** “We certainly understand the implications of this development in the Light Sport Aircraft segment and do not take this action carelessly,” he said *** No word (of course) whether Piper will get back into the LSA segment any time soon…they were pretty secretive about it the first time around. *** I called and spoke with Jackie Carlon of Piper, who dispelled my two initial surmises: *** That Czech Sport Aircraft couldn’t produce in quantity and/or quality, or that the program, brought onboard by Kevin Gould, who was a real mover in repopulating the low-performance end of the Piper Aircraft legacy, was a casualty of his departing the company last year. *** No, and no, says Jackie. *** “Piper made the decision to terminate our master distributor agreement,” she just told me. “We were happy with the aircraft, and it was doing very well in the marketplace. Piper and the distributors were very pleased with the quality. At the end, it was truly a fundamental difference in philosophy. Now, we’ll be focusing on managing the transition process, establishing a plan on how to best do that.” *** When I asked her if killing the program was a change in strategy reflected by the departure of Mr. Gould, she said “Absolutely not, we remain committed to the light end of the spectrum, such as our Archer which just celebrated its 50th anniversary, and our trainers.” *** “Piper supports the LSA marketplace; it’s a good market, with a lot of potential, and we remain very enthusiastic about it.” *** In other words, she wasn’t at liberty to say anything more at this time. *** I’ll do more digging on this. If you have a great airplane, which the PiperSport/SportCruiser is, and quality control and delivery weren’t the problem (so far as we know now), and it’s selling well, then the mystery only deepens. *** More news as I can dig it up. *** But wow, what a shocker…and what a potential morale blow to the industry as a whole.

Compress Post ...

In a tersely worded and OMG-style announcement, Piper Aircraft today said today it “will terminate its business relationship with Czech Republic-based Czech Sport Aircraft to market that company’s Light Sport Aircraft, citing differences in business philosophies.” *** Piper’s CEO Geoffrey Berger said, “After a year working with Czech Sport Aircraft, Piper determined that it is in our company’s best long-term interests to discontinue the business relationship…Clearly, the company (i.e. Piper) has a different business perspective and approach to the market than Czech Sport Aircraft,” he added. *** Piper excited the LSA world with its announcement last year, when helmed by former CEO Kevin Gould, that it would virtually take over rebadging, and upgrading, the popular but problem-plagued Czech Sport Aircraft SportCruiser, a beautiful and popular aircraft. *** “We at Piper have a close affinity with this emerging segment of the marketplace,” Berger continued, “and we have great expectations for the LSA industry.

Expand Post ...

Piper Drops Czech Sport Aircraft and PiperSport

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Flying into the sunset for the one-year-old relationship between Piper Aircraft and Czech Sport Aircraft.

Spokesperson Jackie Carlon announced the beginning of Piper’s foray into Light-Sport Aircraft at Sebring 2010.

In stunning news just before the Sebring LSA Expo starts, Piper Aircraft announced they will be terminating their business relationship with Czech Sport Aircraft, the Czech republic-based manufacturer of the PiperSport (previously known as the SportCruiser from initial developer Czech Aircraft Works). *** “After a year working with Czech Sport Aircraft, Piper determined that it is in our company’s best long-term interests to discontinue the business relationship…” said Piper CEO Geoffrey Berger. “Clearly, the company has a different business perspective and approach to the market than Czech Sport Aircraft,” he added. The company stated that “it became clear that Piper’s core strengths and that of Czech Sport Aircraft were mismatched.” *** This follows a year that saw Piper register more new SLSA than any other company, almost reaching their sales target announced at last year’s Sebring. (see note at bottom) “We at Piper have a close affinity with this emerging segment of the marketplace and we have great expectations for the LSA industry. The LSA we were distributing is a good one and we encourage aviation enthusiasts to continue their support of this segment of the market,” Berger added. *** Piper will honor their sponsorship of Sebring’s U.S. Sport Aviation Expo and staff will be present at Sebring 2011. *** Meanwhile, spokesperson Jackie Carlon emphasized the Vero Beach, Florida-based company remains, “very enthusiastic about the LSA industry and market. We will look at opportunities, but have no immediate plans to replace the PiperSport.” Carlon clarified that Piper sees “significant opportunities” in the LSA space, for student pilots plus experienced pilots seeking an aircraft. *** In the end phrases such as “differences in business philosophies” and “fundamental differences” identify that Piper Aircraft’s action reported here is one of severing ties to Czech Sport Aircraft more than any doubt regarding the Light-Sport Aircraft market. *** Piper registered a total of 54 PiperSport SLSA in 2010. They had forecast 75 units, but the actual number represents a solid performance in a down year. Look for our full-year LSA market report to follow. As always remember that registrations may not equal aircraft deliveries; Piper may state a different figure for their 2010 sales. For more on this breaking story, see Jim Lawrence’s report below.

Compress Post ...

In stunning news just before the Sebring LSA Expo starts, Piper Aircraft announced they will be terminating their business relationship with Czech Sport Aircraft, the Czech republic-based manufacturer of the PiperSport (previously known as the SportCruiser from initial developer Czech Aircraft Works). *** “After a year working with Czech Sport Aircraft, Piper determined that it is in our company’s best long-term interests to discontinue the business relationship…” said Piper CEO Geoffrey Berger. “Clearly, the company has a different business perspective and approach to the market than Czech Sport Aircraft,” he added. The company stated that “it became clear that Piper’s core strengths and that of Czech Sport Aircraft were mismatched.” *** This follows a year that saw Piper register more new SLSA than any other company, almost reaching their sales target announced at last year’s Sebring. (see note at bottom) “We at Piper have a close affinity with this emerging segment of the marketplace and we have great expectations for the LSA industry.

Expand Post ...

The Zen of Cub

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

just after hand-propping: photo courtesy Michael Bradford

Seems everybody who’s done any kind of flying has a J3 Cub lurking somewhere in their psyche.A most evocative rendering of the mystique of flight in a Cub comes in the form of a poetic blog by Michael Bradford, a long time hang glider, ultralight and light plane pilot. *** I wrote for a publication, Glider Rider (now Light Sport and Ultralight Flying), that he edited for years and we hadn’t talked in some time. My loss. *** Now, as self-described “recovering smartass” and software writer, Michael keeps his feet in the hang gliding harness boot and can be counted on for eclectic, highly original takes on ‘most everything. *** But don’t take my word for it: check out his blog. *** He calls himself “Lazarus Nobody.” The blog’s titled: Nobody’s Flying Service: Making People Nervous since 1951. *** I bet, like me, you will nod and smile as you read through his excellent take on what it means to fly. I plan to read it over on a regular basis.

Compress Post ...

Seems everybody who’s done any kind of flying has a J3 Cub lurking somewhere in their psyche.A most evocative rendering of the mystique of flight in a Cub comes in the form of a poetic blog by Michael Bradford, a long time hang glider, ultralight and light plane pilot. *** I wrote for a publication, Glider Rider (now Light Sport and Ultralight Flying), that he edited for years and we hadn’t talked in some time. My loss. *** Now, as self-described “recovering smartass” and software writer, Michael keeps his feet in the hang gliding harness boot and can be counted on for eclectic, highly original takes on ‘most everything. *** But don’t take my word for it: check out his blog. *** He calls himself “Lazarus Nobody.” The blog’s titled: Nobody’s Flying Service: Making People Nervous since 1951. *** I bet, like me, you will nod and smile as you read through his excellent take on what it means to fly.

Expand Post ...

FAA Take 2: Gliders Can “Feather”

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

In a related note to yesterday’s post on possible changes to the 3rd class medical requirement for Private Pilots, FAA proposes new wording re the “auto-feathering” description for LSA powered gliders. *** The official description simply removes the word “auto” from the term “autofeathering.” It’s more of a semantic rather than practical change, updated to reflect actual hardware modes already out there. *** In effect, the amendment embraces both manual and autofeathering operations for powered LSA gliders. *** Anyone who wants to comment can go to the link above until Feb. 2, 2011. The final rule becomes official on March 4, 2011.

Compress Post ...

In a related note to yesterday’s post on possible changes to the 3rd class medical requirement for Private Pilots, FAA proposes new wording re the “auto-feathering” description for LSA powered gliders. *** The official description simply removes the word “auto” from the term “autofeathering.” It’s more of a semantic rather than practical change, updated to reflect actual hardware modes already out there. *** In effect, the amendment embraces both manual and autofeathering operations for powered LSA gliders. *** Anyone who wants to comment can go to the link above until Feb. 2, 2011. The final rule becomes official on March 4, 2011.

Expand Post ...

FAA Medical To Go Bye-Bye?

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

There’ve been some rumblings recently that the FAA is unofficially taking a look at the private medical requirement for pilot licensing. ***  Janice Wood, writing for General Aviation News, cites the efforts of an airport owner/operator, David Wartofsky, to petition the Secretary of Transportation to replace the FAA’s 3rd class medical with a driver’s license for private aircraft weighing under 6,000 lbs. *** Mr. Wartofsky makes some salient points, and calls the eventual loss of 3rd class medicals that all pilots face as “the greatest threat to aircraft ownership”. *** I’ve never thought there’d be a snowball’s chance in a blast furnace of the medical being removed, but there are compelling reasons to do just that — or amend the current rule to conform with the lesser medical requirement of a state driver’s license, such as requiring vision-corrective glasses when flying. How many drivers in 4,000 pound cars who barely passed their driver’s license requirements whizz by you head-on at a closing speed of 120 mph? *** Some of the downsides of the 3rd class medical: • High costs to manage the system • Overkill on the 3rd class requirements for physical health, which are equivalent to those required for a Commercial Driver’s License… while a light plane is equivalent in its potential crash impact to a passenger car; • Statistics show that barely 1% of all general aviation accidents are medically related. Light-Sport statistics, since the rule came into effect in 2004, reflect the same ratio of medical to all other causes of aviation mishaps, which supports Wartofsky’s contention that a 3rd class medical is no more necessary for light planes than for LSA. Another point on the LSA side of the equation: many owners are baby boomers who fly LSA rather than run the risk of losing their 3rd class medicals. *** Wartofsky’s petition, which you can view and sign, was published by DOT as required by law… and then buried by a comment period open until 2099! Sneaky sneaky, DOT! *** Pilots can get involved by adding comments to the petition and contacting their representatives in the House and Senate to support the petition. *** As Wood states, the objective is to force a full re-evaluation of the need for a 3rd class medical through a NPRM (Notice of Proposed Rulemaking).

Compress Post ...

There’ve been some rumblings recently that the FAA is unofficially taking a look at the private medical requirement for pilot licensing. ***  Janice Wood, writing for General Aviation News, cites the efforts of an airport owner/operator, David Wartofsky, to petition the Secretary of Transportation to replace the FAA’s 3rd class medical with a driver’s license for private aircraft weighing under 6,000 lbs. *** Mr. Wartofsky makes some salient points, and calls the eventual loss of 3rd class medicals that all pilots face as “the greatest threat to aircraft ownership”. *** I’ve never thought there’d be a snowball’s chance in a blast furnace of the medical being removed, but there are compelling reasons to do just that — or amend the current rule to conform with the lesser medical requirement of a state driver’s license, such as requiring vision-corrective glasses when flying. How many drivers in 4,000 pound cars who barely passed their driver’s license requirements whizz by you head-on at a closing speed of 120 mph?

Expand Post ...

The Smooth and Long of the Phoenix LSA Motorglider

By Dan Johnson || 9 Comments

Jim Lee kindly brought his stunning Phoenix to my new home at Spruce Creek Fly-in.

Long 49-foot wings help Phoenix glide 30 miles on only 5,000 feet of altitude. Yes, the prop is stopped… and can be feathered for lower drag.

With the sunset glowing on her wings, Phoenix reveals a motorglider’s smooth, complex curves.

Yesterday, I was again grateful for my residence at Spruce Creek Fly-In, the large airport community near Daytona Beach, Florida. Why? Because after a lucky last-minute phone call, I zipped over to the airport restaurant and went flying with Jim Lee in his new Phoenix. *** Now, I’m a soaring enthusiast, so a LSA motorglider already starts well up my wish list. But this Phoenix, whew! She’s simply gorgeous with slippery compound curves and the handling is marvelous. *** Much more than simply a soaring machine, Phoenix climbs like the proverbial homesick angel and can cruise faster than many LSA. It also comes standard with two wing configurations — 49 feet stepping down to 36 feet — so you really get two airplanes in one. (Not only that, but if you need to put Phoenix in a hangar, you can remove the long wingtips to squeeze down to a 34-foot span, hardly any wider than a “standard” LSA.) *** Inside the cockpit, the 43-inch wide space is handsomely appointed and you have a few controls and an instrument not typically found in LSA. You have some prop controls — get the full LSA Glider explanation to understand how this works. Plus any self-respecting soaring pilot wants a variometer to find lift; Phoenix provides this with a small instrument that also makes sounds that allow you to keep your eyes outside the cockpit. *** You’ll want to pore over the specifications and I’ve only given a brief review here. I hope to fly Phoenix again soon when we can explore soaring conditions. But here’s a few tidbits: • glide 32:1 • power cruise 115 knots • stall 38 knots • useful load 612 pounds • range 900 nm (power on). *** Phoenix isn’t cheap, but you get a lot for the money. Base price is presently $149,000 including those wing extensions that give Phoenix two distinct (yet pleasant) personalities. When luxuriously outfitted with a highly readable EFIS, autopilot, airframe parachute, radios and transponder, Phoenix can hit $165,000. Those who have investigated motorgliders will see this as modestly priced. You don’t get these lines and this kind of performance for a bottom-dollar price. She’s a specialty aircraft but since Lamabada left the scene, Phoenix occupies this special space all by her lonesome. Jim has a long list of good prospects so I wouldn’t wait too long to check out this Czech beauty. I know I’m in love; my attempt at photos doesn’t do her justice.

Compress Post ...

Yesterday, I was again grateful for my residence at Spruce Creek Fly-In, the large airport community near Daytona Beach, Florida. Why? Because after a lucky last-minute phone call, I zipped over to the airport restaurant and went flying with Jim Lee in his new Phoenix. *** Now, I’m a soaring enthusiast, so a LSA motorglider already starts well up my wish list. But this Phoenix, whew! She’s simply gorgeous with slippery compound curves and the handling is marvelous. *** Much more than simply a soaring machine, Phoenix climbs like the proverbial homesick angel and can cruise faster than many LSA. It also comes standard with two wing configurations — 49 feet stepping down to 36 feet — so you really get two airplanes in one. (Not only that, but if you need to put Phoenix in a hangar, you can remove the long wingtips to squeeze down to a 34-foot span, hardly any wider than a “standard” LSA.) *** Inside the cockpit, the 43-inch wide space is handsomely appointed and you have a few controls and an instrument not typically found in LSA.

Expand Post ...

Fire Fighting LSA

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Sebring Aviation’s John Hurst (L) congratulates Hugo Cobo and his team after on-site training was completed.

The LSA movement may have struggled along with the rest of civilian aviation over the last three years. *** Still, there’s no stopping folks who see how useful Light-Sport Aircraft can be for work at a lower cost than traditional aircraft. *** Overall U.S. LSA sales leader Flight Design (1,500 now flying worldwide) just told us about a fire fighting department (situated at 8,300 feet MSL) in the Andes mountains of Ecuador that is using a CTLS as an aerial support unit. *** John Hurst and Jeremy Endsley of Sebring Aviation went to the South American country to assist the Basin Fire Department at Mariscal La Mar Airport. *** Hurst and Endsley trained fire department employees in the assembly, maintenance, and flight training of the CTLS. *** The group operating the LSA is called the Air Volunteer Fire Department of Basin. *** Hugo Cobo, the head of the department, said: “Using the CTLS… our Fire Department has an effective tool to help in search functions, recognition and support of ground operations by providing a better service to the community of Cuenca.” *** Mr. Cobo adds, “The decision to buy the CTLS was made after studying different information of other aircraft manufacturers including experimental, LSA and other general aviation (aircraft). The CTLS was the only aircraft that meets the safety operation and performance requirements for the Fire Department.” *** Low cost ops and training were important factors in his final decision.  *** The CTLS is the first and the only aircraft used in all Fire Department operations, including search and ground operations support. *** Cobo estimates average monthly flight hours will be around 25, with greater use expected during wildfire season. *** The department’s pilots received five hours of training at Sebring and another five hours in Ecuador. *** This one aircraft will not only provide quick response and accurate surveillance during emergencies but will also be used as a kind of LSA showcase of the aircraft’s usefulness to other fire departments in the region. *** Typical mission profile, even given the 8,300 foot altitude at takeoff, will not limit flying top only one person due to the CTLS performance, which includes a climb rate above 1,000 fpm at sea level and a top cruise of 120 knots. *** Following this post, you can view a couple videos of the Ecuadorian operation. *** Take off — notice how the high altitude and thin air make for a long takeoff roll… wonder what the density altitude was? — *** And landing…

Compress Post ...

The LSA movement may have struggled along with the rest of civilian aviation over the last three years. *** Still, there’s no stopping folks who see how useful Light-Sport Aircraft can be for work at a lower cost than traditional aircraft. *** Overall U.S. LSA sales leader Flight Design (1,500 now flying worldwide) just told us about a fire fighting department (situated at 8,300 feet MSL) in the Andes mountains of Ecuador that is using a CTLS as an aerial support unit. *** John Hurst and Jeremy Endsley of Sebring Aviation went to the South American country to assist the Basin Fire Department at Mariscal La Mar Airport. *** Hurst and Endsley trained fire department employees in the assembly, maintenance, and flight training of the CTLS. *** The group operating the LSA is called the Air Volunteer Fire Department of Basin.

Expand Post ...

A Bright New Year!

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

To our readers and all Light Sport pilots and dreamers, we thank you for your enthusiasm and support in this year of both challenges and triumphs.   *** The dream is alive, and all of us together will carry it forward this year. *** Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to one and all! *** ~ Jim Lawrence

Compress Post ...

To our readers and all Light Sport pilots and dreamers, we thank you for your enthusiasm and support in this year of both challenges and triumphs.   *** The dream is alive, and all of us together will carry it forward this year. *** Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to one and all! *** ~ Jim Lawrence

Expand Post ...

Maverick Goes Mega-Viral!

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

The dark horse, literally, to claim the Flying Car throne is the all-black I-Tec LSA-certified Maverick Sport. *** We’ve talked about it here a lot, and now the “airable” dune buggy seems to really be catching on with the public. *** I-Tec turned the flying car concept design on its head by designing a lightweight off-road car first: the ability to fly it was always the 2nd priority in the design phase. *** The result is a lightweight, off-road-sturdy, flying car that will — and this is straight from I-Tec’s Steve Saint — accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. *** Holy flying Jaguar XKE, Batman! *** To prove it’s road chops, Steve and the I-Tec crew drove it 1,500 miles to Oshkosh last summer with the paraglider-like wing tucked into its roof pouch. *** In a preview of the 18-hour days they would face while swamped by a fascinated public at Airventure, the crew never made a fuel stop en route that took less than an hour — everybody had to know everything about the Maverick. *** Production, which can now go forward since Maverick has gained SLSA status, is scheduled to begin by AirVenture 2011. There would seem to be no shortage of orders to address the cost of tooling up, either… manna from heaven that most LSA manufacturers wish would come their way. *** Now, EAA announces that its video, put together by Brady Lane from footage partially shot by I-Tec during its trek from Florida, has received more than 1 million hits! *** You can see the video and several more on the Maverick video page. Interested readers can see more photos. *** And you can view a CNN video. Yep, even the MSM (Main Stream Media) is in on the action. *** Is there a lesson here for airplane companies? I-Tec has proven that money spent innovating rather than big-splash marketing can payoff in a more reasonable cost ($89,000 for the Maverick), and people will still beat a path to your door. *** I’m hoping to fly it next month around the Sebring LSA Expo. *** Here are a few more details: *** speed 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds (just had to say that again)top speed above 95 mph (they haven’t driven it any faster but it’s got plenty muscle left) the 27 foot high structural mast keeps the ram air wing off the ground and helps with crosswindsmast also good for multiple takeoffs and landingsDual Drive System with one engine and two drive systems is patentedprop drive will also be ideal for water (on pontoons, like a swamp boat) and ice/snow (skis?)in-flight operations in the 40 mph rangeMiles per gallon: 25-30 highway. And it burns car gas, not $5/gal avgas.landings and takeoffs in football field length…with enough altitude to clear the goal posts!created to support I-Tec’s mission to help people in roadless remote and jungle habitats, where raw survival can literally depend on the ability to fly.FAA classifies Maverick as a Powered Parachute Itec has tested early prototypes in African and South American frontiersSteve Saint likes to tell the oglers, “If you can drive a car with an automatic transmission, you can fly this.” *** Of course, it requires full Sport Pilot training, but I’m eager to see just how easy it is to fly — and drive. *** The company may subcontract the commercial side of Maverick production. *** “We hope to get the cost down,” says Steve, “to better serve the humanity missions market: that’s our primary goal.”

Compress Post ...

The dark horse, literally, to claim the Flying Car throne is the all-black I-Tec LSA-certified Maverick Sport. *** We’ve talked about it here a lot, and now the “airable” dune buggy seems to really be catching on with the public. *** I-Tec turned the flying car concept design on its head by designing a lightweight off-road car first: the ability to fly it was always the 2nd priority in the design phase. *** The result is a lightweight, off-road-sturdy, flying car that will — and this is straight from I-Tec’s Steve Saint — accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. *** Holy flying Jaguar XKE, Batman! *** To prove it’s road chops, Steve and the I-Tec crew drove it 1,500 miles to Oshkosh last summer with the paraglider-like wing tucked into its roof pouch. *** In a preview of the 18-hour days they would face while swamped by a fascinated public at Airventure, the crew never made a fuel stop en route that took less than an hour — everybody had to know everything about the Maverick.

Expand Post ...

Corbi Alto is #112 SLSA!

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

In my post after last spring’s EAA Sun ‘n Fun convention in Lakeland, FL, I told you a bit about the Corbi Alto 100, a new, purpose-built SLSA (see List) that entrepreneurs Ron Corbi, a longtime figure in aviation, and Dan Coffey said should be done by the end of the year.

True to their word, I got an excited email from Ron today that read, “It’s finally an SLSA!” Congratulations to all the crew at Corbi Air, an established aircraft sales outfit in Salem, OH that’s been a family business for more than 50 years.

The Czech Republic-designed Direct Fly Alto was reworked by Ron and Dan to enhance what they called the aircraft’s “maintainability,” by including features like American-made brakes, bucked rivets replacing pop rivets, an electronic electrical system and a Dynon Skyview…all for $99,995.

As you can see, the canopy slides forward for easy entry opening in flight.

Lots more to share once we get a peak in January.

Compress Post ...

In my post after last spring’s EAA Sun ‘n Fun convention in Lakeland, FL, I told you a bit about the Corbi Alto 100, a new, purpose-built SLSA (see List) that entrepreneurs Ron Corbi, a longtime figure in aviation, and Dan Coffey said should be done by the end of the year. True to their word, I got an excited email from Ron today that read, “It’s finally an SLSA!” Congratulations to all the crew at Corbi Air, an established aircraft sales outfit in Salem, OH that’s been a family business for more than 50 years. The Czech Republic-designed Direct Fly Alto was reworked by Ron and Dan to enhance what they called the aircraft’s “maintainability,” by including features like American-made brakes, bucked rivets replacing pop rivets, an electronic electrical system and a Dynon Skyview…all for $99,995. As you can see, the canopy slides forward for easy entry opening in flight.

Expand Post ...

Breezing through the Bahamas

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Using my trusty Garmin aera (plus a 496… an interesting comparison), the over-water navigation was simple.

Lovely islands surrounded by crystal clear water. Some beaches offer landing options.

We packed lightly but still had quite a bit of gear in the twin Breezers.

While my former home state of Minnesota grappled with enough snowfall to collapse the Metrodome’s inflated roof, I’m still hanging out in the Bahamas (yeah, I know, tough job…). *** After the First International Sport Pilot Fly-in concluded all but a couple Breezers flew home. Our group of four, lead by islands expert and U.S. Breezer importer Mike Zidziunas, took a pair of Breezer LSA south to an island called Staniel Cay (pronounced “key” unless you want to easily identified as a tourist). The experience was spectacular in many ways. The trusty Rotax 912s ran smoothly and confidently for as one of the Fly-in pilots put it, “Your engine doesn’t know it’s over water.” *** On the planned trip home, assuming strong headwinds die down following passage of the same giant cold front that dumped all the snow in parts of the U.S., we plan to wend our way through some visually stimulating inter-island flying at low altitude. Mike will install a video camera on the tail of one Breezer and flying in close formation, we aim to capture the twin LSA in some footage the Bahamas tourism office is already awaiting anxiously. Update 12/15/10 — This worked great; check Breezer USA‘s website to view after they edit and post. —DJ *** My overall experience suggests that LSA can easily negotiate and navigate flights from mainland USA and our modest fuel usage was remarkable news to others we’ve seen here in the Exumas (a southern chain of islands in the Bahamas). We burned just 6 gallons over the Atlantic en route to Freeport from Fort Lauderdale, another 6 flying from Freeport to Nassau and about 4 more to reach Staniel Cay. Averaging better than 20 mpg at 120 mph makes for quite economical travel. Breezers carry 21 gallons of fuel and with good planning, this proves to be plenty to reach these tropical destinations. *** Large FBOs catering to the jet crowd — such as Odyssey in Nassau — offered polite and excellent service even though we bought a mere $30 worth of fuel. *** I admit flying over large stretches of water sharpens your focus on fuel management and demands good maintenance but I’ve also flown aircraft over large forests in the U.S. and frankly, I think I’d rather take my chances with a water landing. *** To address such concerns and to inform pilots flying without a medical who might want to venture to these lovely islands, Aviators Hot Line director Jacob Peed plans free webinars on both subjects. Check with the publisher later for details on these informative presentations which may later be offered as podcasts.

Compress Post ...

While my former home state of Minnesota grappled with enough snowfall to collapse the Metrodome’s inflated roof, I’m still hanging out in the Bahamas (yeah, I know, tough job…). *** After the First International Sport Pilot Fly-in concluded all but a couple Breezers flew home. Our group of four, lead by islands expert and U.S. Breezer importer Mike Zidziunas, took a pair of Breezer LSA south to an island called Staniel Cay (pronounced “key” unless you want to easily identified as a tourist). The experience was spectacular in many ways. The trusty Rotax 912s ran smoothly and confidently for as one of the Fly-in pilots put it, “Your engine doesn’t know it’s over water.” *** On the planned trip home, assuming strong headwinds die down following passage of the same giant cold front that dumped all the snow in parts of the U.S., we plan to wend our way through some visually stimulating inter-island flying at low altitude.

Expand Post ...

Propsam and Then Some

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Doug Stewart

Photo courtesy Jabiru USA

Photo courtesy Breezer Aircraft

Photo courtesy Second Chantz

Time to pick up a few notable quotables from the world of LSA. *** Winter is alas now upon us — here in upstate NY, temps in the week ahead will never crack 30. *** So what better way, fellow propheads, than to scan the skies for things to think about as we don our ‘kerchiefs and caps for our long winter’s nap?Life on the Home Front: Doug Stewart, 2004’s CFI of the year, has donated his time to give an underprivileged young man some free flight lessons in a (pre-PiperSport) SportCruiser. Good on yer, sir! And not a bad way to be introduced to flight either, eh? *** Downside of the story is a landing accident involved a renter of that very same ship: The nosegear collapsed, totaling the airplane! Bummer… but it was insured and nobody was seriously hurt, sez Doug. *** *** He’s a Real Everywhere Man: Our good friend and Light Sport virtuoso Dan Johnson has been a busy boy lately, fleeing the advancing snowflakes of his longtime Minnesota home with bride Randee to take up fulltime snowbird status at none other than Spruce Creek aviation community: lucky dawg.Hardworking Dan also did an excellent writeup on a lovely Rans S-19 we saw at the Midwest LSA Expo. Neither of us recognized the airplane at first due to cowl mods to wrap the custom Jabiru engine power. *** It’s in the latest issue of Light Sport and Ultralight Flying, published by another good friend Tracy Knauss, whom I first met as a contributor to his Glider Rider magazine (for hang glider drivers), back at the dawn of time. Tracy, a man of many talents and master of them all, puts out a very nice book that sport pilots should check out, especially if you’re also interested in ultralight flying. *** Back to Dan: This guy’s everywhere! He also just completed the first organized international flight of a group of LSA to the Bahamas (Plane & Pilot Publisher Mike McMann went on that trip — I couldn’t make it, boo hoo), and Dan also wrote a nice piece for GA News on Able Flight, a volunteer org that helps disabled folks get air time. *** Mike Zidziunias of Breezer Aircraft helped put the whole Bahamas thing together and it was a big success.Second Second Chantz: Another old friend and longtime light-flight expert, John Dunham, is going strong again with his Second Chantz ballistic recovery system company. Rather than rehash John’s checkerboard career and latest entrepreneurial endeavor, it’s all at the link above. *** Check it out: John’s company has produced more than 4,000 chutes and he’s back in the game running the company after selling it some years ago.

Compress Post ...

Time to pick up a few notable quotables from the world of LSA. *** Winter is alas now upon us — here in upstate NY, temps in the week ahead will never crack 30. *** So what better way, fellow propheads, than to scan the skies for things to think about as we don our ‘kerchiefs and caps for our long winter’s nap?Life on the Home Front: Doug Stewart, 2004’s CFI of the year, has donated his time to give an underprivileged young man some free flight lessons in a (pre-PiperSport) SportCruiser. Good on yer, sir! And not a bad way to be introduced to flight either, eh? *** Downside of the story is a landing accident involved a renter of that very same ship: The nosegear collapsed, totaling the airplane! Bummer… but it was insured and nobody was seriously hurt, sez Doug. *** *** He’s a Real Everywhere Man: Our good friend and Light Sport virtuoso Dan Johnson has been a busy boy lately, fleeing the advancing snowflakes of his longtime Minnesota home with bride Randee to take up fulltime snowbird status at none other than Spruce Creek aviation community: lucky dawg.Hardworking Dan also did an excellent writeup on a lovely Rans S-19 we saw at the Midwest LSA Expo.

Expand Post ...

First International Sport Pilot Fly-in

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Pilots receive a full briefing from Greg Rolle of the Bahamas Tourism office at Banyan Air’s superb facility.

All arrive safely at Freeport to a warm reception. This is my bird, compliments of Breezer Aircraft USA. My wife Randee is exiting the plane while airport staff secured the aircraft.

You — nor any Bahamian officials — have ever seen this: a row of LSA at the Freeport airport.

Enjoying the night life near Lucaya Resort. Pictured are (R-L): Mike Z, Jacob Peed (kneeling), Bahamas rep Leonard Stuart, Randee Laskewitz, and Dan Johnson.

“Too much fun!” was a common exclamation of my Alaska ultralight friend, Mike Jacober. His signature phrase ran through my head as 18 airplanes, mostly LSA, arrived at the Freeport, Bahamas airport for the first Sport Pilot Fly-in over December 10-12, 2010. *** For many this was their first flight over the ocean (including yours truly). It isn’t far — 85 nautical miles, less than one hour — and it isn’t hard (unless you go for a swim en route… none of us did, thank goodness!). But flying out of sight of land, even for a short time, is rather attention-getting. *** A number of us gathered at Banyan Air Service at the Fort Lauderdale Executive getting first-class treatment and fuel discounts from this “gateway FBO” to the Bahamas. Bahamas Tourism/Aviation director (and fellow pilot) Greg Rolle gave a thorough presentation of the requirements to fly internationally. Each pilot had to complete lots of government forms but they weren’t too difficult and the great help made it go quickly. Then, we all gathered our resolve, fired up our engines, and took off across the Big Drink. Of course, this is nothing for those few LSAers who have crossed the Atlantic and Pacific, but it had me on my toes and I suspect most of us felt similarly. *** An hour later, we landed one after another at Freeport to a warm reception by Bahamian authorities and tourist office staffers. We breezed through Customs and waiting taxicabs took us to a deluxe resort where we could all revel in our satisfaction of making the ocean-crossing voyage. Jacob Peed of Aviators Hot Line / Light Aviation Edition provided customized tee shirts for all participants with their aircraft name and N-number. Nice idea, Jake! *** Thanks for this great experience go to Randy Hansen and David Oord of EAA who worked with the Bahamas Tourism team to make the Sport Pilot certificate accepted at all airports throughout the islands. All participants have many people to thank but the Bahamas team leaders include Greg Rolle and Leonard Stuart (photo). *** Continuing Bahamas Fly-ins and other LSA activities are planned and if you get the chance, be sure to take the opportunity. Special thanks to Breezer Aircraft USA boss, Mike Z, who loaned me a Breezer, and who very competently helped me prepare for the flight. Mike’s enterprise plans regular Bahamas fly-outs and you should contact him for advice. He’s a wealth of knowledge, having lived on and sailed throughout the islands for five winters.

Compress Post ...

“Too much fun!” was a common exclamation of my Alaska ultralight friend, Mike Jacober. His signature phrase ran through my head as 18 airplanes, mostly LSA, arrived at the Freeport, Bahamas airport for the first Sport Pilot Fly-in over December 10-12, 2010. *** For many this was their first flight over the ocean (including yours truly). It isn’t far — 85 nautical miles, less than one hour — and it isn’t hard (unless you go for a swim en route… none of us did, thank goodness!). But flying out of sight of land, even for a short time, is rather attention-getting. *** A number of us gathered at Banyan Air Service at the Fort Lauderdale Executive getting first-class treatment and fuel discounts from this “gateway FBO” to the Bahamas. Bahamas Tourism/Aviation director (and fellow pilot) Greg Rolle gave a thorough presentation of the requirements to fly internationally. Each pilot had to complete lots of government forms but they weren’t too difficult and the great help made it go quickly.

Expand Post ...

Moving, Statistics, and Sweepstakes

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Watch a “Flying Bahamas” video to learn more about flying the islands.

EAA published some interesting statistics in a chock-full November 2010 issue of Sport Aviation. The association will give away a Cessna Skycatcher next year.

Thanks to Jim Lawrence for keeping SPLOG full of fun-to-read info while I was massively occupied with a move of the ByDanJohnson.com and LAMA offices from Minnesota to a new home in Florida… Spruce Creek Fly-in near Daytona Beach to be precise. As I return to SPLOG, I have a few interesting tidbits involving LSA or other aircraft Sport Pilot may fly. *** Speaking of Sport Pilots, aviators with that certificate may now legally use it to fly to the Bahamas — the first country outside of the USA to accept the newest FAA license. So far, 21 LSA are signed up for the first Bahamas International Sport Pilot Fly-in. Lucky me… thanks to a generous offer from Breezer Aircraft USA boss Mike Z, my wife Randee and I get to join the over-water parade to the Bahamas. Watch video of Mike Z about his earlier flight to the Bahamas. *** Like many, I was disappointed when EAA discontinued Sport Pilot magazine but their work to upgrade Sport Aviation has met with broad member approval. I added my voice to this chorus after reading the November 2010 issue. Nice job, EAA publications staffers! Besides a great article on the Maverick powered parachute dune buggy, Sport Aviation presented some statistics in highly readable form. I want to pull out a few facts that apply to Light-Sport Aircraft fans. • EAA got 1,267 opinions on a variety of topics. • Six percent say they fly a LSA, a high penetration as Light-Sports are just 1% of the single engine fleet in America. Interestingly, only 19% of EAA’s respondents fly a homebuilt. • On average pilots fly with one passenger; hmmm, just like LSA. • Those preferring taildraggers to tricycle gear are in the majority 52 to 48%. • Two other fascinating points, I thought, were that 34% preferred an open cockpit and 40% preferred tandem to side-by-side. • A very substantial 77% prefer a joystick; no wonder most LSA use them. • And 59% prefer to land on a grass strip versus a paved runway. *** Finally, the LSA Sweepstakes continue. In 2009 EAA gave away a Flight Design MC. During May 2010, Sporty’s gave away a Skycatcher. In November 2010, AOPA awarded their Fun-to-Fly Sweepstakes Remos GX. And now, EAA is back again, this time offering a Cessna Skycatcher. Four lucky individuals have won or will win a terrific new LSA, all for the price of entering. Check out EAA’s sweepstakes at WinAPlane.com. Good luck!

Compress Post ...

Thanks to Jim Lawrence for keeping SPLOG full of fun-to-read info while I was massively occupied with a move of the ByDanJohnson.com and LAMA offices from Minnesota to a new home in Florida… Spruce Creek Fly-in near Daytona Beach to be precise. As I return to SPLOG, I have a few interesting tidbits involving LSA or other aircraft Sport Pilot may fly. *** Speaking of Sport Pilots, aviators with that certificate may now legally use it to fly to the Bahamas — the first country outside of the USA to accept the newest FAA license. So far, 21 LSA are signed up for the first Bahamas International Sport Pilot Fly-in. Lucky me… thanks to a generous offer from Breezer Aircraft USA boss Mike Z, my wife Randee and I get to join the over-water parade to the Bahamas. Watch video of Mike Z about his earlier flight to the Bahamas.

Expand Post ...

Electric Waiex Makes Maiden Flight

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

John Monnett, left, and son Jeremy after 1st flight

Followers of these exciting pioneering days of electric-powered aircraft will be happy to know the  all-electric Waiex just made its maiden flight at Wittman Field, home of Oshkosh Airventure — and Sonex Aircraft. *** John Monnett, head honcho of Sonex, which built the proof-of-concept version of its Waiex kit aircraft as part of its E-Flight Initiative, took the controls for the flight, tasked primarily with breaking out of ground effect to analyze in-flight system performance. *** After landing, John said, “Whew. It’s different! Lot of power.” *** The program started four years ago, and involves the airplane and Sonex’s development of its own proprietary motor, battery and speed controller — all vital parts of electric propulsion technology.Jeremy Monnett, John’s son and CEO/General Manager of Sonex, said the company will test the aircraft over the next several months and has already begun design work on the fourth version of the motor and twelfth version of the motor controller, which will be integrated into the current Waiex test bed. *** Sonex has been building popular kit airplanes for decades, including Light Sport-legal designs. It also produces its own line of supporting aviation products including the AeroVee engine, which powers many of its designs. *** The standard Waiex kit was modified with an E-Flight 54kw brushless DC electric motor, E-Flight electronic motor controller, 14.5kw-hr lithium polymer battery system, E-Flight battery management system, and E-Flight cockpit instrumentation and controls. *** You can keep track of the E-Flight design team’s progress here. For a video of the historic flight (these are the Wright Brothers days of e-flight, after all), scroll down the page here.

Compress Post ...

Followers of these exciting pioneering days of electric-powered aircraft will be happy to know the  all-electric Waiex just made its maiden flight at Wittman Field, home of Oshkosh Airventure — and Sonex Aircraft. *** John Monnett, head honcho of Sonex, which built the proof-of-concept version of its Waiex kit aircraft as part of its E-Flight Initiative, took the controls for the flight, tasked primarily with breaking out of ground effect to analyze in-flight system performance. *** After landing, John said, “Whew. It’s different! Lot of power.” *** The program started four years ago, and involves the airplane and Sonex’s development of its own proprietary motor, battery and speed controller — all vital parts of electric propulsion technology.Jeremy Monnett, John’s son and CEO/General Manager of Sonex, said the company will test the aircraft over the next several months and has already begun design work on the fourth version of the motor and twelfth version of the motor controller, which will be integrated into the current Waiex test bed.

Expand Post ...

Gorgeous Corvus Hopes for Bilateral Agreement

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Corvus Aircraft builds the shapely Mk 3 using Kevlar, carbon fiber, and fiberglass, an exotic combination that yields plenty of useful load. The side-by-side two seater also boasts a distinctive instrument panel that lifts up with the canopy to ease entry.

Most Yankee pilots couldn’t care less about an arcane government agreement. But if you like the looks of the Corvus Mk 3, the Bilateral Aviation Agreement (BAA) becomes important. The stunning Corvus, which I first saw at Aero 2005, is built in Hungary meaning Corvus USA requires the BAA before offering it as a SLSA. That’s precisely why Jesse Martin, proprietor of Corvus USA, attended a conference with the catchy name, “2006 US/Europe International Aviation Safety Conference.” At this event, Jesse heard that the BAA is being negotiated between FAA and EASA, Europe’s EU-wide aviation agency. He reported, “This agreement [will] incorporate member countries of the European Union…to create a single agreement for all 25 EU members,” including Hungary. He added, “The best guess for ratification of this agreement is mid-year 2007.” *** Why should this interest you? Besides the handsome Corvus, other intriguing designs might also be available to U.S. Sport Pilots if all EU countries are allowed to export to the U.S.

Compress Post ...

Most Yankee pilots couldn’t care less about an arcane government agreement. But if you like the looks of the Corvus Mk 3, the Bilateral Aviation Agreement (BAA) becomes important. The stunning Corvus, which I first saw at Aero 2005, is built in Hungary meaning Corvus USA requires the BAA before offering it as a SLSA. That’s precisely why Jesse Martin, proprietor of Corvus USA, attended a conference with the catchy name, “2006 US/Europe International Aviation Safety Conference.” At this event, Jesse heard that the BAA is being negotiated between FAA and EASA, Europe’s EU-wide aviation agency. He reported, “This agreement [will] incorporate member countries of the European Union…to create a single agreement for all 25 EU members,” including Hungary. He added, “The best guess for ratification of this agreement is mid-year 2007.” *** Why should this interest you? Besides the handsome Corvus, other intriguing designs might also be available to U.S.

Expand Post ...

I Rise, Cried the Phoenix

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

All photos courtesy Jim Lee of Phoenix Air USA

Looking out the window at falling snow (and it’s only November 8th… Bah!), back from a two week vacation to Europe and Turkey, and mired in writing a big LSA buyer’s guide for Plane & Pilot mag, I’ve only got a few minutes to splash up some photos of what to me is a big event: the ASTM certification as an SLSA of the Phoenix motorglider! *** See Dan Johnson’s post below where you can follow his links to Jim Lee’s sites for more info on the exciting news we’ve been waiting for some time to hear. *** The Phoenix is the more-than-worthy “sequel” [by another, unrelated company] to the Lambada SLSA motorglider that turned a lot of pilots on (including me and Dan). When two breakups last year clouded its future, a lot of us were glad to hear from Jim that the Phoenix was waiting in the wings to take its place. *** So congratulations Jim, glad to see it’s a happening thing. *** He just completed a recent cross country trip and posted some beautiful shots on the soaring and motoring high above my old stompin’ grounds in the Sierra Nevada Range of California… read all about it for an up close and personal account on Jim’s blog. *** And even if you’re in a better clime than I, don’t feel bad about my snowboundedness. I’ll be in sunny Florida in January hoping to fly the gorgeous Phoenix at the Sebring Sport Aviation Expo. *** Mark your calendars and start searching for accommodations: it’s Jan. 20-23, 2011.

Compress Post ...

Looking out the window at falling snow (and it’s only November 8th… Bah!), back from a two week vacation to Europe and Turkey, and mired in writing a big LSA buyer’s guide for Plane & Pilot mag, I’ve only got a few minutes to splash up some photos of what to me is a big event: the ASTM certification as an SLSA of the Phoenix motorglider! *** See Dan Johnson’s post below where you can follow his links to Jim Lee’s sites for more info on the exciting news we’ve been waiting for some time to hear. *** The Phoenix is the more-than-worthy “sequel” [by another, unrelated company] to the Lambada SLSA motorglider that turned a lot of pilots on (including me and Dan). When two breakups last year clouded its future, a lot of us were glad to hear from Jim that the Phoenix was waiting in the wings to take its place.

Expand Post ...

Final 2010 Market Report

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Graphic courtesy ByDanJohnson.com

Dan Johnson’s periodic LSA market share report (compiled by Jan Fridrich of the Czech LAA) reveals some interesting trends. *** For those who haven’t seen these snapshots of the U.S. LSA market before, Dan focuses on FAA registrations, not sales quotes from manufacturers. While this indicator may lag sales figures, over time it gives a more accurate view of who’s actually delivering airplanes to customers. *** The not-surprising but important highlight has to be Piper’s shot in the arm to overall LSA production. *** The venerable company registered 43 airplanes this year (24% of all registrations!) and will no doubt be stronger in 2011 as sales continue to mount for its sexy PiperSport. *** CubCrafters really surged this year with 37 registrations, a 20% market share, on the strength of its 180hp-powered Carbon Cub SS. My local field has one, and it’s quite a performer. *** In my recent post I mentioned Cessna’s surge now that production at the China factory is in full swing. A total 29 Skycatchers (16% of all registrations) went out this year: Cessna expects to ship 150-plus next year. *** The market leaders, including Flight Design and American Legend are hanging in there, and newcomer Jabiru/Arion with its new Lightning was a big hit with 9 registrations for the year. *** Sleepers to watch include Sportair USA’s Sirius (4), Aerotrek (4), Skykits Savannah (4), FPNA A-20 (3), and 3Xtrim Navigator 600 (2). *** Dan parses the numbers and projects, to end of 2010, a further slide of 4% over 2009, which was nobody’s favorite year. *** But with the economy slowly expanding again, a lot of folks are reading the tea leaves and hoping for a much stronger 2011. Let’s all keep drinking that happy tea.

Compress Post ...

Dan Johnson’s periodic LSA market share report (compiled by Jan Fridrich of the Czech LAA) reveals some interesting trends. *** For those who haven’t seen these snapshots of the U.S. LSA market before, Dan focuses on FAA registrations, not sales quotes from manufacturers. While this indicator may lag sales figures, over time it gives a more accurate view of who’s actually delivering airplanes to customers. *** The not-surprising but important highlight has to be Piper’s shot in the arm to overall LSA production. *** The venerable company registered 43 airplanes this year (24% of all registrations!) and will no doubt be stronger in 2011 as sales continue to mount for its sexy PiperSport. *** CubCrafters really surged this year with 37 registrations, a 20% market share, on the strength of its 180hp-powered Carbon Cub SS. My local field has one, and it’s quite a performer.

Expand Post ...

Privacy Policy
Terms of Use