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Sebring Day Three: Thorpedo changes

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Scott Severen of Indus Aviation took me through a bunch of upgrades to its T211 Thorpedo — the first U.S. SLSA to earn ASTM certification. *** Among the numerous enhancements include: *** curved glare shield *** numerous instrument panel changes including a stall warning light and horn *** digital compass *** GA-style circuit breakers *** cabin heater that “actually works!” says Scott. *** removed side panels to give more effective cockpit room *** A locking canopy has been added, as well as lumbar-contoured seats which have three inches more supine inclination, a contoured stick with a palm rest and adjustable headrests. I sat in the Thorpedo and found it very comfortable. *** The IFR-equipped (for training) Thorpedo is meant as a flight school airplane. *** Dang nice paint job too!

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Scott Severen of Indus Aviation took me through a bunch of upgrades to its T211 Thorpedo — the first U.S. SLSA to earn ASTM certification. *** Among the numerous enhancements include: *** curved glare shield *** numerous instrument panel changes including a stall warning light and horn *** digital compass *** GA-style circuit breakers *** cabin heater that “actually works!” says Scott. *** removed side panels to give more effective cockpit room *** A locking canopy has been added, as well as lumbar-contoured seats which have three inches more supine inclination, a contoured stick with a palm rest and adjustable headrests. I sat in the Thorpedo and found it very comfortable. *** The IFR-equipped (for training) Thorpedo is meant as a flight school airplane. *** Dang nice paint job too!

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Sebring Day Two: Tecnam Throws Down The Gauntlet

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

61-year-old Italian aircraft manufacturer Tecnam has a whole fleet of LSA and general category aircraft at the show, serving notice they’re here to stay. *** At a reception tonight, U.S. Distributor Heart of Virginia and the Tecnam executive team, lead by CEO Phil Solomon, made a bold prediction: they intend the company to be the top-selling LSA maker by 2014. *** Everybody was drooling over the P2008 LSA so I asked Phil to educate me on the gorgeous high winger. *** “It blends a metal wing and Tecnam’s traditional expertise in building metal aircraft with a composite fuselage. The idea was to make the best possible plane they could along with the strength and lightness of carbon fiber. It’s also clear that people are getting larger around the world, so there’s definitely a premium on a wider aircraft. People wanted more luggage space too, and more luxury.” *** “That’s really what Tecnam is trying to address with the P2008: a top-of-the-range, ultimate LSA. The principal market we’re addressing is those who’ve maybe stepped down from a Bonanza or similar, and are simply looking for the best, and willing to pay for it.” *** Price point with the “preferred package” is “just under $170,000″. That includes all the equipment you’ll ever need: Advanced flight Systems twin glass panel, autopilot with altitude hold, XM weather, backup GPS, and more. The idea being there isn’t a lot else an owner is going to want.” *** Call it the Mercedes of LSA. Congratulations are in order: for a stunning airplane, and for its first sale, made here at the show. First deliveries are expected in April or May.”

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61-year-old Italian aircraft manufacturer Tecnam has a whole fleet of LSA and general category aircraft at the show, serving notice they’re here to stay. *** At a reception tonight, U.S. Distributor Heart of Virginia and the Tecnam executive team, lead by CEO Phil Solomon, made a bold prediction: they intend the company to be the top-selling LSA maker by 2014. *** Everybody was drooling over the P2008 LSA so I asked Phil to educate me on the gorgeous high winger. *** “It blends a metal wing and Tecnam’s traditional expertise in building metal aircraft with a composite fuselage. The idea was to make the best possible plane they could along with the strength and lightness of carbon fiber. It’s also clear that people are getting larger around the world, so there’s definitely a premium on a wider aircraft. People wanted more luggage space too, and more luxury.” *** “That’s really what Tecnam is trying to address with the P2008: a top-of-the-range, ultimate LSA.

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Enter the PiperSport!

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Piper Aircraft’s Prez/CEO Kevin J. Gould made it official today at Sebring: the company has entered into a new, worldwide-exclusive distributor licensing agreement with Czech Sport Aircraft that will bring the SportCruiser to market – by April! – under the new name PiperSport. *** As I reported yesterday, Piper did not buy into the company as had been rumored. *** Piper representatives told me there will be some changes to the aircraft, such as refining control harmonies, to optimize its conformability to Piper’s long heritage of entry-level airplanes. *** But by and large, this is still the SportCruiser, which is a fine, Euro-proven design that is not only an excellent training airplane but most definitely a lot of fun to fly, and a dream to land. *** CEO Gould and other Piper personnel addressed a gathering of public and media to make the important announcement. *** Gould began his remarks by evoking the original Piper Cub, what he described as “one of the original ‘LSA’ aircraft of its time.” *** “Piper is entering what is undeniably one of the most exciting market segments in general aviation,” he continued. “This burgeoning segment is becoming vital to our industry and playing an ever-increasing role in developing general aviation’s next generation of pilots.” *** “The PiperSport is an amazing entry-level aircraft that will bring new customers into Piper and lead the way…into more sophisticated and higher performance aircraft within our line over time.” *** Some highlights of the deal, and the airplane: *** three models are on sale as of today: The basic PiperSport ($119,000), PiperSport LT (primary trainer at $129,000), and PiperSport LTD (professional model, $139,000).first deliveries are promised by April of this year!parts for existing SportCruisers will still be available.parts for PiperSport will be available through supplier Aviall, Piper’s partner. *** The interior’s new leather seats are gorgeous. *** Piper did not signal any intention to put a heavier “GA” engine into the PiperSport, as Cessna has done with the Skycatcher, choosing to stay with the Rotax 912, 100hp engine. *** One thing I was happy to hear: a BRS airframe recovery parachute system is standard equipment on every airplane. *** Other aircraft features: *** 1,200 fpm climb ratecruise of 115 Kts600 lbs. useful loadpremium auto “mogas” (unleaded fuel) or 100LL avgasaircraft has metal, not plastic, fuel lines: impervious to ethanol in mogas, which can eat away at plastic30-gallon fuel capacity, 144 lbs. total baggage (cabin and wing locker storage)range: 600 nm *** The basic PiperSport model comes with: *** Dynon D100 Flight displayGarmin 495 GPS, SL40 Nav/Com and GTX 328 TransponderAmeriking ELTPS Engineering PM3000 intercom *** Just in case you missed the link above, here’s the page, which just popped up on the website at the same time as the announcement in Sebring.

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Piper Aircraft’s Prez/CEO Kevin J. Gould made it official today at Sebring: the company has entered into a new, worldwide-exclusive distributor licensing agreement with Czech Sport Aircraft that will bring the SportCruiser to market – by April! – under the new name PiperSport. *** As I reported yesterday, Piper did not buy into the company as had been rumored. *** Piper representatives told me there will be some changes to the aircraft, such as refining control harmonies, to optimize its conformability to Piper’s long heritage of entry-level airplanes. *** But by and large, this is still the SportCruiser, which is a fine, Euro-proven design that is not only an excellent training airplane but most definitely a lot of fun to fly, and a dream to land. *** CEO Gould and other Piper personnel addressed a gathering of public and media to make the important announcement. *** Gould began his remarks by evoking the original Piper Cub, what he described as “one of the original ‘LSA’ aircraft of its time.” *** “Piper is entering what is undeniably one of the most exciting market segments in general aviation,” he continued.

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Sebring Day Two: Flight Design Update

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

I was lucky enough to get Matthias Betsch, Flight Design’s CEO, all to myself for a few minutes and here’s what he had to say: *** General update: “A hard year but better than we expected. In the last two to three months, we’ve had quite a pickup. Here in the States dealers sold their stock so they have to buy more airplanes…they have to buy more so I think that is good!” *** The year ahead: “I don’t think we’ll get back to 2007-2008 this year, but I do think it will be a 30% recovery. The rest we will do in 2011.” *** On the new Flight Design MC: “It’s a different character. The LS is more sporty, speedy, responsive. The airplane feels much heavier than it is. That’s what we wanted: an airplane for flight schools which is very forgiving, easy to land, to fly. It’s also ideal for older pilots who are used to very stable airplanes.” *** MC vs. LS sales: “I still think the CT will be 2/3 of the business, and the MC 1/3. It’s primarily a trainer. But if you learn on the MC, why not buy one? It’s not as agile as a CTLS, and easier to fly, and very roomy inside”. (52″ wide cabin) *** Re adding metal fabrication to composite expertise: “We imported the composite technology to the Ukraine for the CT when we set up the factory. But the Ukraine was traditionally very good at building metal airplanes. We also sent Denny Franklin to help set up tooling and develop ideas for building. For instance, the metal sheet thickness for big Antonov airplanes is much greater than for LSA!” *** Realistic all-up weight: “It’s an honest 825 lbs. with all the equipment on it, so the rest is pure payload. Also it’s not a fancy airplane you’re afraid to put your hands on. It’s very solid. It’s a workhorse also.” *** Production rate: “Now that the design is done, and we’ve begun marketing, we hope to be producing 4 to 6 per month by the end of the year. We didn’t want to create demand we couldn’t meet.” *** When will the first ones arrive in the U.S.? “Flight Design USA should have one in the next two weeks.” *** Response after demo flights: “We were surprised by how much people like it. We didn’t try to sell them on the MC, we just asked them ‘What did you find, what did you like or not like: we wanted them to be completely honest. And we heard good things.” *** In Europe: “We are working on the type certificate by late summer for the CTLS. We don’t have an LSA-type category yet. Also, we sold the same number of airplanes in 2009 in Europe as in 2008! There is no reason we could see, so we just accept it!” *** What’s new with the CTLS? “A new interior, with two-tone painting. And the Dynon SkyView or Garmin G3X panel for those transitioning beyond LSA training to GA airplanes with Garmin panels.”

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I was lucky enough to get Matthias Betsch, Flight Design’s CEO, all to myself for a few minutes and here’s what he had to say: *** General update: “A hard year but better than we expected. In the last two to three months, we’ve had quite a pickup. Here in the States dealers sold their stock so they have to buy more airplanes…they have to buy more so I think that is good!” *** The year ahead: “I don’t think we’ll get back to 2007-2008 this year, but I do think it will be a 30% recovery. The rest we will do in 2011.” *** On the new Flight Design MC: “It’s a different character. The LS is more sporty, speedy, responsive. The airplane feels much heavier than it is. That’s what we wanted: an airplane for flight schools which is very forgiving, easy to land, to fly. It’s also ideal for older pilots who are used to very stable airplanes.” *** MC vs.

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Sebring Revs to High Speed; Catch the Videos

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Sebring Video — UltralightNews.com) and I have been working hard to provide lots of short aircraft reviews and general views of Sebring 2010. The sixth annual show is already judged a success. Check the video on YouTube.

Sebring is off and flying… well, like a homesick angel! It appears the sixth running of the show is as strong as it’s ever been. Tim Casey — head guru of Garmin‘s division for aviation portables plus avionics and radios used in nearly every LSA on the market — told me this evening, “I think traffic is nearly double last year [a record year for Sebring]. We completely ran out of literature on the second day!” The giant producer reported solid sales of equipment including their lovely new touchscreen Aera and their complete info glass screen package, dubbed the G3X. *** My pal, Jim Lawrence has been pumping out the blogs as you’ve seen right here (does this guy ever sleep?!) and more will come. In addition, my video partner, UltralightNews, has been working both of us hard to build up a flock of cool video clips. See the highlights here with a coming quick-take tour of the entire show grounds (see below)… followed in the weeks ahead by our continuing review of every Light-Sport Aircraft on the market. Thanks to UltralightNews’s prodigious video production capability, we are now about half-way through the 105 models of SLSA on the market. We even got Rose Pelton to stand for an interview of her very own Skycatcher. Rose is Cessna CEO Jack Pelton’s lovely wife and, yes, the first Skycatcher went to her so she can pursue her Private Pilot license. *** We’ll have LOTS more to come; click back here often to see all the latest and greatest in the LSA world. [UPDATE 1/25/10: Race around Sebring 2010 with UltralightNews and me as we give you a quick tour of many aircraft displayed at the just-concluded Sebring LSA Expo event. We provide a brief description and a few facts about each aircraft plus their web address for fuller details. It’s fun and fast… Quick Tour Part 1 or Quick Tour Part 2.]

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Sebring is off and flying… well, like a homesick angel! It appears the sixth running of the show is as strong as it’s ever been. Tim Casey — head guru of Garmin‘s division for aviation portables plus avionics and radios used in nearly every LSA on the market — told me this evening, “I think traffic is nearly double last year [a record year for Sebring]. We completely ran out of literature on the second day!” The giant producer reported solid sales of equipment including their lovely new touchscreen Aera and their complete info glass screen package, dubbed the G3X. *** My pal, Jim Lawrence has been pumping out the blogs as you’ve seen right here (does this guy ever sleep?!) and more will come. In addition, my video partner, UltralightNews, has been working both of us hard to build up a flock of cool video clips. See the highlights here with a coming quick-take tour of the entire show grounds (see below)… followed in the weeks ahead by our continuing review of every Light-Sport Aircraft on the market.

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Sebring Day Two: Breezer Notches Sale

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Breezer dealer Mike Zidziunas had a double-good day. *** First, a potential buyer he’d been working with whipped out a blank check and said, “How much do I fill it in for?” *** Congratulations Mike! *** He also announced the German company has named him sole U.S. Distributor for the Breezer II, which he’ll take over from Sportsplanes.com. He’ll do business as Breezer Aircraft U.S.A. *** Owner Dirk Ketelsen and marketing rep Wolfgang Nitschmann joined the celebration and lauded Mike’s deep background in LSA engine repair and maintenance, flight training, and assembly/final test flying of imported aircraft.

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Breezer dealer Mike Zidziunas had a double-good day. *** First, a potential buyer he’d been working with whipped out a blank check and said, “How much do I fill it in for?” *** Congratulations Mike! *** He also announced the German company has named him sole U.S. Distributor for the Breezer II, which he’ll take over from Sportsplanes.com. He’ll do business as Breezer Aircraft U.S.A. *** Owner Dirk Ketelsen and marketing rep Wolfgang Nitschmann joined the celebration and lauded Mike’s deep background in LSA engine repair and maintenance, flight training, and assembly/final test flying of imported aircraft.

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Sebring Day Three: Sportster Nears Market

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Anyone familiar with the Jess Anglin Spacewalker homebuilt from the 1980s will see its genetic pedigree in the new low-wing Sporster that’s been a kit airplane for some time and is undergoing ASTM development, to be offered before long as an SLSA. *** For now (I need some sleep) here some eye candy to whet your appetite.

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Anyone familiar with the Jess Anglin Spacewalker homebuilt from the 1980s will see its genetic pedigree in the new low-wing Sporster that’s been a kit airplane for some time and is undergoing ASTM development, to be offered before long as an SLSA. *** For now (I need some sleep) here some eye candy to whet your appetite.

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Sebring Day Four: Garmin “Supersizes” G3X

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Garmin’s Tim Casey debuted two spiffy new software packages for owners of the G3X glass cockpit. *** The first package brings expanded monitoring of flight functions and engine performance to the unit/s (you can gang in up to three screens on your panel). *** Tres cool: the G3X is completely user-customizable, perfect for LSA and experimental owners. *** Some of the monitoring functions: *** RPM *** Manifold pressure *** oil temperature and pressure *** Coolant temperature and pressure *** Fuel pressure *** Up to six CHT inputs *** Up to six EGT inputs *** Carburetor temperature *** Dual voltage inputs *** Fuel flow (single or differential) *** Trim position (three-axis) *** Flap position *** Fuel quantity inputs *** Engine sensor kits will work with Lycoming, Continental, Rotax, and Jabiru engines. *** The other upgrade brings mode interface, allowing remote control of the G3X to TruTrak autopilots. *** Both packages will be available to owners for free download in about two weeks, says Garmin.

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Garmin’s Tim Casey debuted two spiffy new software packages for owners of the G3X glass cockpit. *** The first package brings expanded monitoring of flight functions and engine performance to the unit/s (you can gang in up to three screens on your panel). *** Tres cool: the G3X is completely user-customizable, perfect for LSA and experimental owners. *** Some of the monitoring functions: *** RPM *** Manifold pressure *** oil temperature and pressure *** Coolant temperature and pressure *** Fuel pressure *** Up to six CHT inputs *** Up to six EGT inputs *** Carburetor temperature *** Dual voltage inputs *** Fuel flow (single or differential) *** Trim position (three-axis) *** Flap position *** Fuel quantity inputs *** Engine sensor kits will work with Lycoming, Continental, Rotax, and Jabiru engines. *** The other upgrade brings mode interface, allowing remote control of the G3X to TruTrak autopilots.

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First Clips: PiperSport Flies at Sebring!

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Here’s a quick clip shot during a photo session, shared in the back of a Cessna 210 with Jim Koepnick, EAA’s master photographer, who graciously invited me to share the flight. Thanks to EAA’s editor Mary Jones too!

(That’s Jim’s hair whipping around at the bottom of the frame near the end of the clip – tight quarters!)

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Here’s a quick clip shot during a photo session, shared in the back of a Cessna 210 with Jim Koepnick, EAA’s master photographer, who graciously invited me to share the flight. Thanks to EAA’s editor Mary Jones too! (That’s Jim’s hair whipping around at the bottom of the frame near the end of the clip – tight quarters!)

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Sebring Day Four: O Say, Can You Fly!

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Is this a heart-warming story or what? It brings out my deepest love of country – where else but in America could we even be talking about this? *** Details: Tampa Bay Online ran a story this morning about a gentleman named Gregory Lawrence (no relation). Greg, 61, was at Sebring and I’m really sorry I didn’t meet him because although he’s been deaf from childhood, get this: he intends to be the first deaf flight instructor! *** The story linked above gives you more details, just wanted to tag this because it inspired me. What a tribute to the spirit and love of aviation, and the freedom America bestows on all of us to dream a dream so magnificent! *** I’ll be in contacting Greg for a followup story on this: the challenges are daunting, no doubt, but the potential rewards? Indescribably, wonderfully human. Bless you sir and Godspeed!

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Is this a heart-warming story or what? It brings out my deepest love of country – where else but in America could we even be talking about this? *** Details: Tampa Bay Online ran a story this morning about a gentleman named Gregory Lawrence (no relation). Greg, 61, was at Sebring and I’m really sorry I didn’t meet him because although he’s been deaf from childhood, get this: he intends to be the first deaf flight instructor! *** The story linked above gives you more details, just wanted to tag this because it inspired me. What a tribute to the spirit and love of aviation, and the freedom America bestows on all of us to dream a dream so magnificent! *** I’ll be in contacting Greg for a followup story on this: the challenges are daunting, no doubt, but the potential rewards? Indescribably, wonderfully human. Bless you sir and Godspeed!

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Getting Into the PiperSport LSA

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Legacy Brands — Piper took a different approach from Cessna — choosing to distribute an established LSA — and didn’t make the errors of Cirrus (who took so long to “Cirrus-ize” the SRS that the economy put the project on hold). The lower left photo shows the PiperSport “Go Team” of marketer Jackie Carlon (L), CEO Kevin Gould (C), with VP and PiperSport Project Manager Derek Zimmerman (R).

What a way to start the year. Piper called a press conference at Sebring and like no other I’ve seen after attending all six Expo events, the media turned out in droves. On opening day the legacy brand unveiled their LSA entry at Sebring 2010 (it was also their first exhibitor appearance). Camera clicked constantly, videos whirred, and recording devices captured every uttered word. It may not have been as spectacular as Apple’s iPad media event, but it generated the same kind of intense buzz. Here’s a few facts I haven’t seen in the other generous media coverage. *** Piper is a 72-year-old much-storied producer of 140,000 airplanes. They have certified 160 models (50% more than the incredible output of all LSA producers combined). They span the general aviation spectrum from the $120,000 PiperSport to the $2.2 million PiperJet. The company’s iconic Piper Cub inspired two replica LSA producers (American Legend and CubCrafters), whose aircraft comprise two of the top five among all LSA manufacturers… and the only two of the top eight SLSA that are built in the USA. *** As recently as last summer no one forecast Piper’s entry, again illustrating the dynamic and fast-developing nature of Light-Sport Aircraft. But the company is gung-ho on the sector. CEO Kevin Gould said, “Piper is entering what is undeniably one of the most exciting market segments in general aviation.” *** In a move I consider savvy, Piper will keep all existing SportCruiser dealers adding them to 27 Piper Aircraft dealers, 65 service centers, and 2,500 field personnel. Watch for my full-length pilot report coming in the March 2010 issue of Light Sport & Ultralight Flying, which will be posted here by spring.

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What a way to start the year. Piper called a press conference at Sebring and like no other I’ve seen after attending all six Expo events, the media turned out in droves. On opening day the legacy brand unveiled their LSA entry at Sebring 2010 (it was also their first exhibitor appearance). Camera clicked constantly, videos whirred, and recording devices captured every uttered word. It may not have been as spectacular as Apple’s iPad media event, but it generated the same kind of intense buzz. Here’s a few facts I haven’t seen in the other generous media coverage. *** Piper is a 72-year-old much-storied producer of 140,000 airplanes. They have certified 160 models (50% more than the incredible output of all LSA producers combined). They span the general aviation spectrum from the $120,000 PiperSport to the $2.2 million PiperJet. The company’s iconic Piper Cub inspired two replica LSA producers (American Legend and CubCrafters), whose aircraft comprise two of the top five among all LSA manufacturers… and the only two of the top eight SLSA that are built in the USA.

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Going Multimedia (Reluctantly at First)

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

LSA Videos — Direct from Sebring 2010… thanks to ultrafast editing by UltralightNews — here are quick takes (top left, clockwise) on Rose Pelton’s own Skycatcher; Belite Aircraft’s Part 103 ultralight vehicles; the just-announced PiperSport; and the HKS-powered Quasar Lite.

Lots of other aviation news organizations embraced multimedia before ByDanJohnson.com did. We figured online was already quite lively with hyperlinks and true interactivity as represented by our exclusive PlaneFinder 2.0 feature. *** About a year ago, of UltralightNews approached me with an idea to do brief reviews of LSA. I accepted his invitation and today we are well on our way to having a 4-8 minute video mini-review for each of the 105 SLSA on the market. Other professional outlets like AvWeb, ANN, AOPA, and EAA offer multimedia topics all over the aviation map, but ByDanJohnson.com maintains a tight focus on all manner of light aircraft flown by Sport Pilots. *** With that manifesto in mind, we observe for you that we just posted new reviews on our LSA Videos page and we invite you to watch these… for free and without even having to register. That’s the Internet way, though I hope you will consider signing up as a member for only $29 a year — you can read hundreds of full-length pilots reports for the fee. *** After Sebring 2010, Loveman and I have made short videos of about 50 of the 105 SLSA plus a few other interesting aircraft in the Light-Sport space. We hope you enjoy them all. You can see these here or on UltralightNews’ YouTube channel, which helps enlarge the number of viewers. But if you view them right here, you’ll get a short paragraph to help you decide which ones to watch plus an easy hyperlink to all other content we have on that aircraft including all contact info. By this means, we think ByDanJohnson.com is delivering more value than other LSA resources. Go enjoy! They are fun, fast, factual, and free.

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Lots of other aviation news organizations embraced multimedia before ByDanJohnson.com did. We figured online was already quite lively with hyperlinks and true interactivity as represented by our exclusive PlaneFinder 2.0 feature. *** About a year ago, of UltralightNews approached me with an idea to do brief reviews of LSA. I accepted his invitation and today we are well on our way to having a 4-8 minute video mini-review for each of the 105 SLSA on the market. Other professional outlets like AvWeb, ANN, AOPA, and EAA offer multimedia topics all over the aviation map, but ByDanJohnson.com maintains a tight focus on all manner of light aircraft flown by Sport Pilots. *** With that manifesto in mind, we observe for you that we just posted new reviews on our LSA Videos page and we invite you to watch these… for free and without even having to register.

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Sebring Starts Tomorrow

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

I’m down at Sebring, Florida, waiting for the LSA Expo to begin tomorrow, and the weather is smiling: it’s lots warmer than the crop-freezing temps of a week or so ago. *** Out at the field, many exhibitors are setting up as I write this, hoping to start the year off right by scooping their share of the buzz and making some sales and strong leads. It’s been a tough year for almost everybody. *** I know of at least one big announcement on Thursday. I’m sworn to secrecy until then so let’s just say it should have a strong and positive effect on the entire LSA industry. *** Meanwhile, AvWeb reports this morning that deliveries of the Cessna Skycatcher will be delayed half a year or more, due to design changes after two spin accidents during the exhaustive flight test program. *** Discouraging no doubt to the 1,000 eager ticket holders who’ve bought delivery positions, but Cessna states its intention that Skycatchers, like all its other models, stick around in service for a long, long time. Can’t argue with that kind of integrity. *** The first production model, owned by CEO Jack Pelton’s wife Rose, will be on display at the show.

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I’m down at Sebring, Florida, waiting for the LSA Expo to begin tomorrow, and the weather is smiling: it’s lots warmer than the crop-freezing temps of a week or so ago. *** Out at the field, many exhibitors are setting up as I write this, hoping to start the year off right by scooping their share of the buzz and making some sales and strong leads. It’s been a tough year for almost everybody. *** I know of at least one big announcement on Thursday. I’m sworn to secrecy until then so let’s just say it should have a strong and positive effect on the entire LSA industry. *** Meanwhile, AvWeb reports this morning that deliveries of the Cessna Skycatcher will be delayed half a year or more, due to design changes after two spin accidents during the exhaustive flight test program. *** Discouraging no doubt to the 1,000 eager ticket holders who’ve bought delivery positions, but Cessna states its intention that Skycatchers, like all its other models, stick around in service for a long, long time.

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E430 Electric Design Award Finalist

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

One of my favorite designs of 2009 for sheer mouth-watering beauty was the Yuneec E430 Electric two-seat LSA. *** Now, Brit Insurance Designs of the Year, based at its internationally-renowned Design Museum in London, has given LSA recognition a fresh charge by nominating the design for its top award. *** The org looks worldwide for “the most innovative, interesting and forward-looking new work in design”. *** It’s hard not to argue the E430 is one of the most graceful pieces of winged eye-candy to come along in many years. *** The exhibition presents around 100 projects, nominated by a group of *** internationally respected design experts, curators, critics, practitioners and enthusiasts. *** The nominated designs fall into seven categories – architecture, fashion, furniture, graphics, interactive, product and transport. *** A winner for each category will be selected by an international jury and one overall winner will be awarded the Brit Insurance Design of the Year 2010 at an awards dinner in March. *** Go Yuneec! *** —photo courtesy Yuneec International

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One of my favorite designs of 2009 for sheer mouth-watering beauty was the Yuneec E430 Electric two-seat LSA. *** Now, Brit Insurance Designs of the Year, based at its internationally-renowned Design Museum in London, has given LSA recognition a fresh charge by nominating the design for its top award. *** The org looks worldwide for “the most innovative, interesting and forward-looking new work in design”. *** It’s hard not to argue the E430 is one of the most graceful pieces of winged eye-candy to come along in many years. *** The exhibition presents around 100 projects, nominated by a group of *** internationally respected design experts, curators, critics, practitioners and enthusiasts. *** The nominated designs fall into seven categories – architecture, fashion, furniture, graphics, interactive, product and transport. *** A winner for each category will be selected by an international jury and one overall winner will be awarded the Brit Insurance Design of the Year 2010 at an awards dinner in March.

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Light-Sport Aircraft Market Shares through 2009

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Better Times Ahead? — Along with the rest of the U.S. and global economy, we expect much improved results for light aviation in 2010. Numerous indications appear to suggest good trends but questions remain, for example, FAA actions based on their 2008/2009 Assessment Project.

If you refer back to our earlier reports, you can easily see 2009 was a down year (no surprise, right?). General aviation was off more than 50% and Light-Sport was down badly as well, with 42% less registrations than in 2008. *** With this post, we present our now-somewhat-famous chart. We hear from some who say they prefer the info to be broken out for the last year only and I will give a summary of those figures below. We realize the limitations of such a brief portrayal of the market situation. But to maintain consistency from chart to chart, we continue to present the relative market shares since the first registrations were filed back in April 2005. *** However, I did omit two listings as they recorded no new entries for more than two years. Interplane and Jihlavan technically rank in the top 20 but their inactivity resulted in a drop from the chart. I also dropped Sky Arrow as its producer is under court management. Fantasy Air ceased operations in the Czech Republic but Allegro USA is working to restart production in America, so we continue to show their strong initial performance. Urban Air, which remains on the chart, has stopped manufacturing. If I omitted the Lambada builder, Paradise would make the top 20. *** My excellent associate, Jan Fridrich — who compiles this info from FAA’s registration database — works hard to determine which aircraft are truly SLSA (and not ELSA or other categories) and it remains a struggle due to FAA’s data entry procedures. This is why we cannot show trikes or powered parachutes, with regrets. Given the preceding statements, we believe this to be an accurate list. Many hours go into this effort and Jan deserves a hearty thanks. *** FOR 2009… it was a lousy year and I will not present the same chart detail. But here are the top 10 brands with the most FAA registrations for the year: Remos (32); Czech Aircraft Works/Czech Sport Aircraft (31); CubCrafters (24); Flight Design and Tecnam (tied at 20); RANS (18); Jabiru US (11); American Legend, Aerotrek (Aeropro), and Skykits (tied at 7). *** REMEMBER — All numbers are FAA registrations and not sales. Each company may have slightly different data to report.

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If you refer back to our earlier reports, you can easily see 2009 was a down year (no surprise, right?). General aviation was off more than 50% and Light-Sport was down badly as well, with 42% less registrations than in 2008. *** With this post, we present our now-somewhat-famous chart. We hear from some who say they prefer the info to be broken out for the last year only and I will give a summary of those figures below. We realize the limitations of such a brief portrayal of the market situation. But to maintain consistency from chart to chart, we continue to present the relative market shares since the first registrations were filed back in April 2005. *** However, I did omit two listings as they recorded no new entries for more than two years. Interplane and Jihlavan technically rank in the top 20 but their inactivity resulted in a drop from the chart.

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Sebring LSA Expo Next Week!

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Anybody who’s got an LSA bee in their bonnet knows that “Sebring”, like Sun ‘n Fun and Oshkosh, has become synonymous with Light Sport aviation’s very own special show. *** Sebring: home of the famous endurance car race. Sebring: the first big aviation show of the year, and it’s all LSA! I can’t wait! *** LSA doyen Dan Johnson has a great laundry list of highlights on his LSA website so I’ll briefly reprise and add a couple tidbits of my own. *** First off, it’s the sixth year for the show, officially dubbed Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo. Last year was an attendance record-setter. This year who can say with the economy? But Sebring should be notable for some key developments in the exciting expansion of the Sport Pilot/Light Sport phenomenon that’s revitalizing GA almost singlehandedly. *** First, who’s coming? *** Lots of major players, and none is generating more buzz than Piper Aircraft. *** The Big Question: Will Piper announce an LSA program, (SportCruiser or another?) *** More highlights: Tecnam’s beautiful new P2008 high-wingerThe first production Cessna SkycatcherFlight Design’s MC all metal trainerAOPA’s Fun-to-Fly Sweepstakes Remos GXMySky MS-1Legend Aero’s AmphibCub Arion Lightning low-wing composite LSA (see Dan Johnson’s flight report coming in May issue of Plane&Pilot)Aerotrek‘s fabric-covered flivversThe prototype Aveo Phantom from the Slovakian design house Aveo EngineeringPowraChute and other powered parachutes should be buzzing around thick as flies like last yearOpus Aircraft Super2 shoulder wing LSA *** And in the avionics dept.: *** Garmin’s Aera GPS Dynon SkyViewZAON collision avoidance systems *** And I just heard from SportairUSA’s Bill Canino who tells me that, alas, the new TL-3000 won’t be at Sebring as they’re selling too well in Europe — they can’t spare any! *** That’s the kind of problem the whole industry needs.

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Anybody who’s got an LSA bee in their bonnet knows that “Sebring”, like Sun ‘n Fun and Oshkosh, has become synonymous with Light Sport aviation’s very own special show. *** Sebring: home of the famous endurance car race. Sebring: the first big aviation show of the year, and it’s all LSA! I can’t wait! *** LSA doyen Dan Johnson has a great laundry list of highlights on his LSA website so I’ll briefly reprise and add a couple tidbits of my own. *** First off, it’s the sixth year for the show, officially dubbed Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo. Last year was an attendance record-setter. This year who can say with the economy? But Sebring should be notable for some key developments in the exciting expansion of the Sport Pilot/Light Sport phenomenon that’s revitalizing GA almost singlehandedly. *** First, who’s coming? *** Lots of major players, and none is generating more buzz than Piper Aircraft.

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Sebring — Light-Sport Aviation’s Season Opener

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

LSA Season Starter — For enthusiasts of LSA, Sebring is a Must-Go event that is all LSA and nothing but LSA. C’mon down to warm & sunny Florida and see the latest and greatest.

If you like LSA or if you are following the development of this newest sector in worldwide aviation, you pretty much have to go to Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo. The sixth annual event opens in less than a week and it looks to be yet-another blockbuster affair. Here I’ll provide a few highlights, but I also expect to be surprised by some new presentations. *** The first airshow of a new decade may show a new hope for recovery in aviation. One of the biggest buzzes has to do with Piper Aircraft and their possible entry to LSA (as has been been widely reported). This matter is not settled yet but Piper will have an exhibit at Sebring (itself something new). *** We’ll also see the tandem high-performance MySky MS-1, a U.S. design that is moving closer to production; the new and beautiful P2008, the first to employ composite construction from Tecnam; and attendees can have a look at Rose Pelton‘s own Skycatcher, which will be on display in Cessna‘s space. This is conforming example #1 of the Skycatcher. *** We should also see the TL-3000 Sirius [UPDATE 1/16/10 — Sirius will not appear as all arriving models are already sold]; Legend said they are bringing their now-for-sale AmphibCub, and a closer-to-production version of the Flight Design MC. Sebring ’10 will also be the chance for LSA fans to see AOPA’s Fun-to-Fly Sweepstakes Remos GX; this is the big member organization’s first appearance with an exhibit at Sebring. *** Sebring will be Garmin‘s first unveiling to the LSA community of their impressive new touch-screen Aera GPS and Dynon will be showing their gorgeous new SkyView digital instrument series. *** In other (boring but important) news, I am heading an ASTM Task Group to prepare an official ASTM Audit Standard. The Task Group hopes to have this “nearly ready for ballot” at Sebring as a means of showing FAA that this industry is truly moving with its oversight programs. Cessna and FAA have appointed persons to assist this Task Group, showing the seriousness with which this effort is being taken. *** In equally dull but vital news, FAA will be gathering with selected builders in at least two sessions. And finally, FAA’s Light-Sport Joint Safety Committee will be meeting at the close of the ASTM meetings just before Sebring begins. In all… WHEW!

Compress Post ...

If you like LSA or if you are following the development of this newest sector in worldwide aviation, you pretty much have to go to Sebring U.S. Sport Aviation Expo. The sixth annual event opens in less than a week and it looks to be yet-another blockbuster affair. Here I’ll provide a few highlights, but I also expect to be surprised by some new presentations. *** The first airshow of a new decade may show a new hope for recovery in aviation. One of the biggest buzzes has to do with Piper Aircraft and their possible entry to LSA (as has been been widely reported). This matter is not settled yet but Piper will have an exhibit at Sebring (itself something new). *** We’ll also see the tandem high-performance MySky MS-1, a U.S. design that is moving closer to production; the new and beautiful P2008, the first to employ composite construction from Tecnam; and attendees can have a look at Rose Pelton‘s own Skycatcher, which will be on display in Cessna‘s space.

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Flight Testing Light-Sport Aircraft; How It’s Done

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Testing, testing… This series shows views of Flight Design flight testing their new all-metal MC. From bottom right clockwise — joystick measuring device; sensor on rudder; wingtip probe; test pilot and video host, Tim-Peter Voss; MC in flight (probe circled).

Much has been written about Cessna’s Skycatcher incidents, those spin investigations that caused the loss of one airplane and a parachute deployment from another. Of course, the giant producer knows well the design of light aircraft so it was only a matter of time before all problems were solved. In doing these spin tests, Cessna said they went beyond the ASTM standards, which also call for spin evaluation. (That’s fine. ASTM specifications are intended to be minimum standards; going beyond them is the decision of each company.) *** A new video from Flight Design does a professional job of showing viewers around the aircraft and its test equipment. Check out the YouTube version. Produced by Flight Design test pilot Tim-Peter Voss and his brother Ben, the videographer, we learn that the process no longer depends on a test pilot manually recording results because electronic devices measure more accurately and in real time. After downloading the data from a flash drive to a laptop, engineers evaluate the results. While the facts and explanation are interesting, the video also takes us through a few maneuvers. *** Some folks believe ASTM standards are simplistic specifications to certify an aircraft. But that shortchanges those industry consensus requirements. As the draft author of the standard for airframe parachutes I can assure you that ASTM requirements go beyond FAA’s Special Conditions for installing a ‘chute on Type Certified aircraft. Get more info on ASTM standards.

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Much has been written about Cessna’s Skycatcher incidents, those spin investigations that caused the loss of one airplane and a parachute deployment from another. Of course, the giant producer knows well the design of light aircraft so it was only a matter of time before all problems were solved. In doing these spin tests, Cessna said they went beyond the ASTM standards, which also call for spin evaluation. (That’s fine. ASTM specifications are intended to be minimum standards; going beyond them is the decision of each company.) *** A new video from Flight Design does a professional job of showing viewers around the aircraft and its test equipment. Check out the YouTube version. Produced by Flight Design test pilot Tim-Peter Voss and his brother Ben, the videographer, we learn that the process no longer depends on a test pilot manually recording results because electronic devices measure more accurately and in real time.

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New 2-Stroke Oil From Shell

By James Lawrence || Leave a Comment

Just got off the horn with Phil Lockwood of Lockwood Aviation today about Shell‘s announcement, which kicks off at the Sebring LSA Expo next week, about its newest lubricant, AeroShell Oil Sport PLUS 2. *** Phil is the go-to guy for anything Rotax. He built his company from scratch into the Mecca for engines, parts, service, maintenance, training and a lot more. He also produces the AirCam and Drifter sport aircraft, sells LSA and I could go on for pages. Super guy too. *** Anyway, here’s Phil’s take on this new 2-stroke engine oil: *** “It’s actually a big deal for people who use 2-strokes — that’s about 10,000 aircraft. We used Pennzoil, (now owned by Shell), before that, but the formulation constantly changed due to chemicals in it becoming unavailable.” *** One problem was severe carbon packing around high performance rings, requiring regular decarbonizing. *** “When Pennzoil came up with a formula in the ’90s that allowed us to go to TBO without decarbonizing, that was a big deal. But that formula eventually wasn’t producible either.” *** Recently, Shell came to Lockwood to test the new formulation — PLUS 2 — on five new Rotax 582 engines. *** “We ran them for 300 hours, picked the best one, did a 50 hour flight-test, tore down the engines and signed off on the formula.” *** “Shell told us they’d guarantee it will be a constant formula from now on.” *** That’s real good news for all those Kitfoxes, Quicksilvers, Drifters and other ultralight and experimental planes that run Rotax two-strokes such as the 447, 503, 582 engines and discontinued models (parts still available) 277, 377, 532 and 618. *** Phil signed off with an eye toward a resurgent ultralight market. *** “We all started with ultralights in the late ’70s and early ’80s and saw them evolve into LSA, and the ultralight market disappeared.” *** “Now, prices of many LSA are out of reach to a whole new generation of would-be pilots who would love ultralights, but don’t know much about them.” *** “I can see a return to ultralights, including electric-powered models like the E-Spyder. Think about it: No video game or outdoor sports vehicle comes close to giving the pleasure of flying through the air.” *** —Photos courtesy Kitfox Aircraft and Flightstar Sportplanes

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Just got off the horn with Phil Lockwood of Lockwood Aviation today about Shell‘s announcement, which kicks off at the Sebring LSA Expo next week, about its newest lubricant, AeroShell Oil Sport PLUS 2. *** Phil is the go-to guy for anything Rotax. He built his company from scratch into the Mecca for engines, parts, service, maintenance, training and a lot more. He also produces the AirCam and Drifter sport aircraft, sells LSA and I could go on for pages. Super guy too. *** Anyway, here’s Phil’s take on this new 2-stroke engine oil: *** “It’s actually a big deal for people who use 2-strokes — that’s about 10,000 aircraft. We used Pennzoil, (now owned by Shell), before that, but the formulation constantly changed due to chemicals in it becoming unavailable.” *** One problem was severe carbon packing around high performance rings, requiring regular decarbonizing.

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Legendary “Van” Flies His Own RV-12… to Work!

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

RV-12 N912VA, known as “New Blue,” is based in Maryland and was built and flown by Van’s East
Coast rep, Mitch Lock. Look for New Blue at Sebring and Sun ‘n Fun.  “Ole Blue” is the original
prototype RV-6A, still soldiering along with 5,000+ hours on the airframe, said spokesman Ken Scott. Click for RV-12 specs and info.

Yes, Cessna’s Light-Sport Aircraft entry helps to validate the concept of industry consensus standards in lieu of government certification. They’ll populate airports with their C-162 Skycatcher as shipments ramp up in 2010. Yes, other big companies are looking at LSA — as most LSA enthusiasts know Cirrus offered an entry though work has stalled, and late 2009 rumors hint at entry by another legacy brand. *** While it’s good to see big boys coming into the game, the biggest-of-all kit builder is also playing. And, in their characteristic way, Van’s Aircraft is quietly racking up sales. According to Ken Scott, “We’ve sold 315 [starter kits] for RV-12. Fifteen are flying and judging from the number of powerplant kits we’ve shipped they should start sprouting like mushrooms pretty quick.” *** The company founder likes RV-12, too. Ken added, “Dick VanGrunsven and his brother Jerry recently completed and flew their personal RV-12 and Van often uses it to commute from his home to [the factory in] Aurora. *** Scott also reported that the first Australian RV-12 has flown and that several more are under construction in countries from Brazil to South Africa. *** Van’s recently released an interior package for the airplane, as well as a 2-axis autopilot option. Additional options — including dual EFIS, lighting, and wheel fairing packages — are under development. Wiring and switching for these has been provided in all kits, so they should install easily, even into finished airplanes.

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Yes, Cessna’s Light-Sport Aircraft entry helps to validate the concept of industry consensus standards in lieu of government certification. They’ll populate airports with their C-162 Skycatcher as shipments ramp up in 2010. Yes, other big companies are looking at LSA — as most LSA enthusiasts know Cirrus offered an entry though work has stalled, and late 2009 rumors hint at entry by another legacy brand. *** While it’s good to see big boys coming into the game, the biggest-of-all kit builder is also playing. And, in their characteristic way, Van’s Aircraft is quietly racking up sales. According to Ken Scott, “We’ve sold 315 [starter kits] for RV-12. Fifteen are flying and judging from the number of powerplant kits we’ve shipped they should start sprouting like mushrooms pretty quick.” *** The company founder likes RV-12, too. Ken added, “Dick VanGrunsven and his brother Jerry recently completed and flew their personal RV-12 and Van often uses it to commute from his home to [the factory in] Aurora.

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