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

Remember the Cumulus Motorglider? It’s Flying!

By Dan Johnson || 2 Comments

In the 1990s I tried my hand at developing an airplane. While that business venture didn’t make me a millionaire, it provided a valuable lesson about what it takes to stay in the light-sport airplane business. Later, I realized the project needed someone who understood building techniques better than I did. That man was Dave Ekstrom and he ultimately took over my design, the Cumulus, a motorglider. He calls his business Ultralight Soaring Aviation LLC .

In the world of soaring, a motorglider is an expensive flying machine, making it not so different than high-end LSA that cost $130,000 or more. But Ekstrom comes from the world of homebuilts and he knew he could produce a kit for a lot less if buyers were willing to pull a few rivets (about 300 total hours are needed).

One of the 21 Cumulus builders is Andre Girard of Ottawa, Canada, who kindly provided Dave with the photos you see (five Cumulus kits are now airborne). On such a lovely day for flying Cumulus has calculated performance of 20:1 glide and a sink rate less than 200 fpm. From personal experience, I can vouch for those numbers as easily facilitating soaring flight. Yet you always have an engine to get you back home.

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In the 1990s I tried my hand at developing an airplane. While that business venture didn’t make me a millionaire, it provided a valuable lesson about what it takes to stay in the light-sport airplane business. Later, I realized the project needed someone who understood building techniques better than I did. That man was Dave Ekstrom and he ultimately took over my design, the Cumulus, a motorglider. He calls his business Ultralight Soaring Aviation LLC . In the world of soaring, a motorglider is an expensive flying machine, making it not so different than high-end LSA that cost $130,000 or more. But Ekstrom comes from the world of homebuilts and he knew he could produce a kit for a lot less if buyers were willing to pull a few rivets (about 300 total hours are needed). One of the 21 Cumulus builders is Andre Girard of Ottawa, Canada, who kindly provided Dave with the photos you see (five Cumulus kits are now airborne).

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Light-Sport Aircraft Mature–Legend’s Celebration

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Stating that “propeller performance has more to do with a piston aircraft’s abilities–short of the pilot in command,” their new 72-inch ground adjustable composite propeller by Sensenich provides as much as 10 mph more performance on a Legend Cub. Check all Legend specs. (Lower photo by James Lawrence)

Legend has good reason for celebration (and no, this has nothing to do with Obama’s election). In the lifespan of Light-Sport Aircraft — the first deliveries reach their fourth anniversary next April — Legend was an early success…a story that continues to unfold. The Sulfur Springs, Texas producer has come a long way while handily maintaining their status as, by far, the largest American-based producer of LSA. *** Recently, Legend celebrated the third anniversary of its first Legend Cub customer delivery. In August 2005, the builder handed over the keys to the company’s first newly manufactured Legend Cub to Rich Giannotti of Long Island, New York, launching the startup company. In the three years following, American Legend and their sibling kit company, Texas Sport Aircraft, report deliveries of more than 160 aircraft (not all SLSA). *** Along the way Legend has consistently added new features or options to the classic design. A couple of the latest include giant Alaskan Bushwheel tires. At a whopping 26 inches, the oversized tire choice is essentially a low-inflation air bag. Legend said the bush tires are “reinforced and ready for rough fields; designed to expect the unexpected.” Legend now also offers a large six-foot diameter prop. Here’s my pilot report.

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Legend has good reason for celebration (and no, this has nothing to do with Obama’s election). In the lifespan of Light-Sport Aircraft — the first deliveries reach their fourth anniversary next April — Legend was an early success…a story that continues to unfold. The Sulfur Springs, Texas producer has come a long way while handily maintaining their status as, by far, the largest American-based producer of LSA. *** Recently, Legend celebrated the third anniversary of its first Legend Cub customer delivery. In August 2005, the builder handed over the keys to the company’s first newly manufactured Legend Cub to Rich Giannotti of Long Island, New York, launching the startup company. In the three years following, American Legend and their sibling kit company, Texas Sport Aircraft, report deliveries of more than 160 aircraft (not all SLSA). *** Along the way Legend has consistently added new features or options to the classic design.

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Free Straight & Level Button for Sting S3 Owners

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Bill Canino (right) is the U.S. importer for TL Ultralight and their Sting S3 and TL-3000 Sirius. To the left is David Dobogai, an American living in the Czech Republic to run TL. SportairUSA reports more than 70 Stings have been delivered in the USA and 500 are flying worldwide. See the Sting S3 at AOPA Expo ’08.

Recently I visited Cirrus Design. I saw progress on the Cirrus Vision jet and the new Garmin Perspective panel for the SR22. Both aircraft are full of high-end avionics. *** Down here in the world of Light-Sport Aircraft, we have far less costly choices for flat-screen avionic displays (panels in the Vision or SR22 literally cost more than an entire LSA). Yet the data each set of instruments uses is identical. LSA are also often equipped with autopilots…again, far less expensively compared to the certified units GA builders install. *** Recently SportairUSA announced their new “Straight & Level” button. If you find yourself in the soup unexpectedly, the pilot or passenger can push one button causing the autopilot to take over by guiding the airplane while the occupants assess their next move. It’s a brilliant idea to give pilots a breather. “The Straight and Level system is a significant advance in flight safety for Sting owners,” says Bill Canino, operator of SportairUSA, “That’s why we are providing it at no additional cost on all of ourTruTrak EFIS/autopilot equipped Stings.” The SL button even turns the autopilot on if it was off…a mighty smart airplane at a fraction of the cost of similarly equipped GA airplanes.

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Recently I visited Cirrus Design. I saw progress on the Cirrus Vision jet and the new Garmin Perspective panel for the SR22. Both aircraft are full of high-end avionics. *** Down here in the world of Light-Sport Aircraft, we have far less costly choices for flat-screen avionic displays (panels in the Vision or SR22 literally cost more than an entire LSA). Yet the data each set of instruments uses is identical. LSA are also often equipped with autopilots…again, far less expensively compared to the certified units GA builders install. *** Recently SportairUSA announced their new “Straight & Level” button. If you find yourself in the soup unexpectedly, the pilot or passenger can push one button causing the autopilot to take over by guiding the airplane while the occupants assess their next move. It’s a brilliant idea to give pilots a breather. “The Straight and Level system is a significant advance in flight safety for Sting owners,” says Bill Canino, operator of SportairUSA, “That’s why we are providing it at no additional cost on all of ourTruTrak EFIS/autopilot equipped Stings.” The SL button even turns the autopilot on if it was off…a mighty smart airplane at a fraction of the cost of similarly equipped GA airplanes.

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Flying through Turbulence; Even Big Boys Affected

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As events have significantly driven LSA sales to date, shows like AOPA’s Expo, the Sebring LSA Expo, and Sun ‘n Fun loom large on the horizon. At AOPA, Light-Sport Aircraft are expected to represent about a quarter of all display airplanes.

Most producers in the Light-Sport Aircraft sector welcomed the LSA market entry announced by Cessna and Cirrus at Oshkosh 2007. July of last year looks like the “good old days,” as aviation from LSA to VLJs — essentially all of GA — is roiled by global economic uncertainty. *** Compounding the challenges, Cessna had an “unrecoverable” spin incident with their Skycatcher 162. Even BRS got drawn in with a rocket-deployed parachute that for reasons yet unknown didn’t save the airframe. Both companies are sure to work out these issues; test failures are an accepted part of aircraft development. *** Cirrus stepped down to a 3-day workweek (AvWeb article) to cope with slowing sales. Like Cessna, Cirrus is managing multiple developments. Their jet project consumes plenty of resources so when watching costs, it’s little surprise that the Duluth company might put their SRS Light-Sport project on the back burner. *** LSA producers already active in the field may gain from these development setbacks as they will give the newer, smaller companies more time to build their infrastructure. Meanwhile, marketing efforts continue…AOPA Expo starts in one week with 15 or so LSA expected, and planning is well underway for the year-starting Sebring LSA Expo and the season-launching Sun ‘n Fun LSA Mall.

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Most producers in the Light-Sport Aircraft sector welcomed the LSA market entry announced by Cessna and Cirrus at Oshkosh 2007. July of last year looks like the “good old days,” as aviation from LSA to VLJs — essentially all of GA — is roiled by global economic uncertainty. *** Compounding the challenges, Cessna had an “unrecoverable” spin incident with their Skycatcher 162. Even BRS got drawn in with a rocket-deployed parachute that for reasons yet unknown didn’t save the airframe. Both companies are sure to work out these issues; test failures are an accepted part of aircraft development. *** Cirrus stepped down to a 3-day workweek (AvWeb article) to cope with slowing sales. Like Cessna, Cirrus is managing multiple developments. Their jet project consumes plenty of resources so when watching costs, it’s little surprise that the Duluth company might put their SRS Light-Sport project on the back burner.

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LAMA Pushing Hard to Provide Audit Oversight

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Companies who have started a LAMA audit: Flight Design, Evektor, Czech Aircraft Works, IndUS, Remos, Aeropro, Jihlavan (Kappa), Urban Air, Tecnam, AMD, and component producer BRS. The images above reveal those who have completed all steps.

These days, “oversight” is a heavily used word on national media. But far from the strangeness of government bailouts is the world of Light-Sport Aircraft. For the new aviation sector, industry oversight is seen as critical by LAMA and many aviation leaders. *** A conversation with LAMA founder* Larry Burke shows the LSA industry organization is moving steadily toward its oversight goals. Insurance companies and others hope LAMA will audit companies supplying 80% of purchased LSA. Once that “critical mass” is reached, insurers feel they can advise customers do as LAMA encourages…”Look for the LAMA Label.” *** A LAMA audit verifies that a company which declares compliance to ASTM standards actually possesses the documentation to prove their declaration. After successfully passing a LAMA audit, a company can place LAMA Labels on their LSA so that potential customers are aware the company has satisfactorily completed a voluntary third party audit. *** LAMA is presently working with 11 companies (see photo legend) and negotiating with more. These 11 companies represent more than 50% of airplanes being delivered. Yet to illustrate the “teeth” in the audit program, 8 of 11 companies were asked to produce additional documentation (all did). *Full disclosure: I am LAMA’s chairman and acting president.

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These days, “oversight” is a heavily used word on national media. But far from the strangeness of government bailouts is the world of Light-Sport Aircraft. For the new aviation sector, industry oversight is seen as critical by LAMA and many aviation leaders. *** A conversation with LAMA founder* Larry Burke shows the LSA industry organization is moving steadily toward its oversight goals. Insurance companies and others hope LAMA will audit companies supplying 80% of purchased LSA. Once that “critical mass” is reached, insurers feel they can advise customers do as LAMA encourages…”Look for the LAMA Label.” *** A LAMA audit verifies that a company which declares compliance to ASTM standards actually possesses the documentation to prove their declaration. After successfully passing a LAMA audit, a company can place LAMA Labels on their LSA so that potential customers are aware the company has satisfactorily completed a voluntary third party audit.

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LSA on their Way to San Jose (AOPA Expo)

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LSA expected at AOPA Expo 2008: American Legend (Cub); Flight Design (CTLS); Gobosh (G700S); CubCrafters (Sport Cub); Icon (A5); IndUS (diesel Thorpedo); Jabiru USA (J-230SP); Light Sport America (Storm Rally); LSA West (Remos GX); Sportair (Sting S3); Skyview (Skylark); Tecnam (Eaglet); Sport Aircraft Works (Mermaid), Cessna (Skycatcher), and Cirrus (SRS).

Everyone is talking about tough economic times and aviators note the effect on the LSA and GA industries. But that won’t stop a good selection of Light-Sport Aircraft from appearing at AOPA’s annual Expo, this year in San Jose, California over November 6-7-8. In fact, with 60+ display airplanes expected and 14-15 of them LSA (list below photo), the light sector once again has a strong presence. *** Thanks to cooperation from AOPA static aircraft display organizers, LSA will once again be presented largely as a group (think LSA Mall). And the location for the collected LSA is sweet indeed: immediately inside the entryway to AOPA’s static aircraft display at Norman Mineta airport. You won’t be able to miss the LSA collection, so come on out and do a little shopping. *** In addition to aircraft displays, AOPA offers a wide range of seminars, including two presentations I will give called, “State of the Light-Sport Aircraft Industry” (TH-11/6 and SA-11/8, both at 11 AM to noon). Come hear the latest market shares and much more. AOPA’s Expo offers a lot to do. Have a glance at the overall schedule. Or, check out the seminar schedule.

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Everyone is talking about tough economic times and aviators note the effect on the LSA and GA industries. But that won’t stop a good selection of Light-Sport Aircraft from appearing at AOPA’s annual Expo, this year in San Jose, California over November 6-7-8. In fact, with 60+ display airplanes expected and 14-15 of them LSA (list below photo), the light sector once again has a strong presence. *** Thanks to cooperation from AOPA static aircraft display organizers, LSA will once again be presented largely as a group (think LSA Mall). And the location for the collected LSA is sweet indeed: immediately inside the entryway to AOPA’s static aircraft display at Norman Mineta airport. You won’t be able to miss the LSA collection, so come on out and do a little shopping. *** In addition to aircraft displays, AOPA offers a wide range of seminars, including two presentations I will give called, “State of the Light-Sport Aircraft Industry” (TH-11/6 and SA-11/8, both at 11 AM to noon).

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Hanging with the Jet Crowd; LSA at NBAA

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The Flight Design MC is on display in EAA’s space at NBAA. Posed in front of the MC to speak to the press about the Young Eagles program are Cessna CEO Jack Pelton (left), actor Harrison Ford, and EAA president Tom Poberezny.

Earlier it appeared that the Flight Design MC would be the first Light-Sport Aircraft ever displayed at the giant National Business Aircraft Association show. NBAA is the organization representing business jets plus a large range of exhibitors serving executive transportation. The trade show happening now in Orlando is a stupendous event with many more exhibitors than Oshkosh. Numerous displays are fantastic creations that cost more for a three-day show than LSA producers spend to market themselves for an entire year. *** So it is fascinating indeed that any LSA would be present at this event. And, in fact, two are seen by the bizjet crowd: the MC and Icon‘s handsome amphibious LSA project, the A5. Icon mounted their own display and reported good response, especially when one of their team hits the auto wing fold button. Even jaded aviators tend to have a jaw-drop reaction to this feature. *** Flight Design’s 2009 MC is part of EAA’s large display at NBAA because the new LSA model is the organization’s Sweepstakes airplane for 2009. Among NBAA attendees are many who serve that market but cannot afford their own sophisticated, expensive jet aircraft. Therefore many appeared to show an interest in LSA airplanes they could actually purchase.

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Earlier it appeared that the Flight Design MC would be the first Light-Sport Aircraft ever displayed at the giant National Business Aircraft Association show. NBAA is the organization representing business jets plus a large range of exhibitors serving executive transportation. The trade show happening now in Orlando is a stupendous event with many more exhibitors than Oshkosh. Numerous displays are fantastic creations that cost more for a three-day show than LSA producers spend to market themselves for an entire year. *** So it is fascinating indeed that any LSA would be present at this event. And, in fact, two are seen by the bizjet crowd: the MC and Icon‘s handsome amphibious LSA project, the A5. Icon mounted their own display and reported good response, especially when one of their team hits the auto wing fold button. Even jaded aviators tend to have a jaw-drop reaction to this feature.

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“New Wave” LSA, Part 1 — Terrafugia Transition

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In addition to the Icon A5 and the MySky One, the Terrafugia (translation: “escape from Earth”) Transition is a clean-sheet design. Ready for road trials, first flights by Transition are expected to follow this fall. Check Transition specs.

Recently, I visited three brand-new LSA developments. All are American. All are propelled by young engineers and enthusiasts. All are remarkably sophisticated. All companies have been successful at raising funds. And, perhaps most notably, all projects were started specifically because of the emergence of the Light-Sport Aircraft rule. *** All three are emphatically not reconfigured European microlights or vintage American designs…not that I have any objection to such aircraft. I am simply encouraged by fresh new designs from fresh young faces. Aviation needs that! *** My first example (others soon) is the Terrafugia Transition. Called a “roadable aircraft” rather than a “flying car,” Terrafuguia does what others have done but in a new, far more practical way. Compared to the Transition, Molt Taylor’s Aerocar is so last century. Transition folds its wings without leaving the cockpit. The company has produced a professional video that explains the concept and the award winning people behind it. *** Transition can cruise airborne at 115 mph or achieve highway speeds. Wingspan is 27.5 feet or 6.75 feet when folded (it fits in a regular garage stall). Using the 100-hp Rotax 912S for ground and air power, it can fly 460 miles on 20 gallons of fuel.

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Recently, I visited three brand-new LSA developments. All are American. All are propelled by young engineers and enthusiasts. All are remarkably sophisticated. All companies have been successful at raising funds. And, perhaps most notably, all projects were started specifically because of the emergence of the Light-Sport Aircraft rule. *** All three are emphatically not reconfigured European microlights or vintage American designs…not that I have any objection to such aircraft. I am simply encouraged by fresh new designs from fresh young faces. Aviation needs that! *** My first example (others soon) is the Terrafugia Transition. Called a “roadable aircraft” rather than a “flying car,” Terrafuguia does what others have done but in a new, far more practical way. Compared to the Transition, Molt Taylor’s Aerocar is so last century. Transition folds its wings without leaving the cockpit. The company has produced a professional video that explains the concept and the award winning people behind it.

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Shifting LSA Market Share Positions in Tough 2008

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As the chart above notes, we cannot get good enough information from FAA’s database to reliably track weight shift trikes or powered parachutes…with regrets to those enthusiasts.

Reading the headlines these days shows the USA is flying through turbulence. Light-Sport Aircraft sales are suffering as are GA sales. Growth rates are off, without question, but not uniformly. We have a few companies that improved their positions in this difficult year. *** If you measure by the number of aircraft registered, top producers held on quite well, with Flight Design, Remos, Tecnam, Jabiru, Czech Aircraft Works and Legend, in order, recording the most registrations through eight months of 2008. If you measure by percentage of growth, we observe some interesting developments. But remember, those with the most total registrations are unlikely to also show the highest percentage of growth since their count on January 1, 2008. Smaller or new players logging some sales may have high percentages as they started low. *** Leading the percentage action was Urban Air, whose Lambada fleet has grown 140% (to 12). Next is an impressive performance by Remos, up 95% (to 66), followed by Jabiru, up 53% (to 84 units registered). Mixing other larger and smaller companies doing well in 2008, in order: Zlin, up 55% to 17 registrations; Czech Aircraft Works, up 47% to 66; Tecnam, up 44% to 98; Gobosh, up 38% to 18; Aeropro, up 36% to 34; AMD, up 28% to 60; CubCrafters, up 21% to 80, American Legend, up 17% to 140, and Flight Design, up 16% to 263 LSA registered.

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Reading the headlines these days shows the USA is flying through turbulence. Light-Sport Aircraft sales are suffering as are GA sales. Growth rates are off, without question, but not uniformly. We have a few companies that improved their positions in this difficult year. *** If you measure by the number of aircraft registered, top producers held on quite well, with Flight Design, Remos, Tecnam, Jabiru, Czech Aircraft Works and Legend, in order, recording the most registrations through eight months of 2008. If you measure by percentage of growth, we observe some interesting developments. But remember, those with the most total registrations are unlikely to also show the highest percentage of growth since their count on January 1, 2008. Smaller or new players logging some sales may have high percentages as they started low. *** Leading the percentage action was Urban Air, whose Lambada fleet has grown 140% (to 12).

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FAA Begins “Assessment” of LSA Industry

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FAA wants to know about each company’s Continued Airworthiness System, a part of the ASTM standards which assures owners get the safety info they need. Other topics include quality systems, maintenance manuals, and product conformity to standards and regulations. A final report will be issued about a year from now.

At Oshkosh, FAA held a meeting to announce their LSA Assessment Project. The agency that gave birth to Light-Sport Aircraft in the summer of 2004 is now embarking on a fact-finding tour they say will judge the “health of the industry,” part of their “aviation safety oversight.” Sounds rather ominous, doesn’t it? However, officials also stated clearly and repeatedly, “What this assessment and evaluation is not is an individual Light-Sport manufacturer’s compliance audit.” *** Indeed, Terry Chasteen, the new head LSA man in the Small Aircraft Directorate characterized the day-long visits by two teams of two inspectors as benign. He’ll be joined by Tom Gunnarson, former president of LAMA now with the LSA office. The visits started this week at Tecnam’s U.S. quarters; AMD, Aircraft Manufacturing and Design; Fantasy Air USA / LSA America; and P&M Aviation USA. *** LAMA, the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association, sent letters to the community regarding the topics and has offered to counsel any companies being visited. FAA randomly chose 29 businesses to visit, starting in the USA though they didn’t rule out using the agency’s European office to make calls overseas.

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At Oshkosh, FAA held a meeting to announce their LSA Assessment Project. The agency that gave birth to Light-Sport Aircraft in the summer of 2004 is now embarking on a fact-finding tour they say will judge the “health of the industry,” part of their “aviation safety oversight.” Sounds rather ominous, doesn’t it? However, officials also stated clearly and repeatedly, “What this assessment and evaluation is not is an individual Light-Sport manufacturer’s compliance audit.” *** Indeed, Terry Chasteen, the new head LSA man in the Small Aircraft Directorate characterized the day-long visits by two teams of two inspectors as benign. He’ll be joined by Tom Gunnarson, former president of LAMA now with the LSA office. The visits started this week at Tecnam’s U.S. quarters; AMD, Aircraft Manufacturing and Design; Fantasy Air USA / LSA America; and P&M Aviation USA.

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Air Creation’s New Tanarg

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Air Creation’s New Tanarg represents a leap forward in chassis design for the big French trike maker. In an upcoming article in Kitplanes magazine (5/05 issue), I’ll review this all-new machine. As you can see, it uses technologies and design not so different from a Honda Goldwing motorcycle. The pilot and passenger sit lower, making the machine more stable on the ground, and the steel chassis structure folds down like no Air Creation trike before it. As U.S. representative, John Kemmeries says, “It’s a spendy bird,” but he sold out of the first batch before anyone even saw it…quite a start.

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Air Creation’s New Tanarg represents a leap forward in chassis design for the big French trike maker. In an upcoming article in Kitplanes magazine (5/05 issue), I’ll review this all-new machine. As you can see, it uses technologies and design not so different from a Honda Goldwing motorcycle. The pilot and passenger sit lower, making the machine more stable on the ground, and the steel chassis structure folds down like no Air Creation trike before it. As U.S. representative, John Kemmeries says, “It’s a spendy bird,” but he sold out of the first batch before anyone even saw it…quite a start.

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First Flight for Excel’s Single Engine Sport-Jet

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On May 12, 2006, the Excel-Jet Ltd., Sport-Jet (specs) made its maiden flight. The single-engine VLJ is a second generation design following designer Bob Borhnofen’s Maverick TwinJet. The only problem the team reported, “We need a faster chase plane to photograph Sport-Jet!”

OK, as with last summer’s SPLOG on SpaceShipOne, news about a jet may seem odd on a website about Light-Sport Aircraft. Well, it does have “Sport” in its name and it is the lightest of the new flock of Very Light Jets (VLJs). But mainly, I just think this is an impressive development of an American-made single engine jet. Sport-Jet is one spacious, high-performing jet aimed at regular GA pilots. About his first flight, pilot Ron McElroy said it was, “…like shooting a BB out of a slingshot!” Developer Bob Bornhofen and his small, highly-focused team were all smiles. Unlike projects like Eclipse, built on a massive $400 million investment or Cessna, backed by a huge conglomerate, Excel-Jet is more an efficient “skunk works” project. Team Excel flew Sport-Jet within two weeks of delivery of their Williams jet engine. First engine start and taxi tests commonly take 2-3 months. Watch the GA press for more coverage of this cool VLJ. My next SPLOG will return to LSA and ultralights.

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OK, as with last summer’s SPLOG on SpaceShipOne, news about a jet may seem odd on a website about Light-Sport Aircraft. Well, it does have “Sport” in its name and it is the lightest of the new flock of Very Light Jets (VLJs). But mainly, I just think this is an impressive development of an American-made single engine jet. Sport-Jet is one spacious, high-performing jet aimed at regular GA pilots. About his first flight, pilot Ron McElroy said it was, “…like shooting a BB out of a slingshot!” Developer Bob Bornhofen and his small, highly-focused team were all smiles. Unlike projects like Eclipse, built on a massive $400 million investment or Cessna, backed by a huge conglomerate, Excel-Jet is more an efficient “skunk works” project. Team Excel flew Sport-Jet within two weeks of delivery of their Williams jet engine. First engine start and taxi tests commonly take 2-3 months.

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Who Wouldn’t Want to Go “Aero-Trekking?”

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Touring by Tanarg is about as good as it gets in my book. The Air Creation trike is the most deluxe weight shift aircraft I’ve flown. Read my pilot report in the May 2006 Ultralight Flying!.

Does not the newly coined phrase “Aero-Trekking” sound like fun? John Kemmeries — proprietor of Kemmeries Aviation, the Ultralight Flight Center, and part owner of the French trike leader Air Creation — invented the new name and has been working hard to establish a unique way to have fun in the air. The result is more about life style than the nuts and bolts of airplane buying and owning. Once called a “Safari” before upgrading to the new program, Aero-Trekking is a adventure program that will appeal to participants willing to pay for deluxe service. You’ll fly with a qualified person over gorgeous scenery getting a view few others will ever see. You stay at night in stunning new homes; some sites are operating now, others are under new construction in several southwestern destinations. Of course, current pilots can do their own flying in modern Air Creation trikes provided by the Aero-Trekkers and John’s business offers instruction for those who want to mix some learning with their fun.

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Does not the newly coined phrase “Aero-Trekking” sound like fun? John Kemmeries — proprietor of Kemmeries Aviation, the Ultralight Flight Center, and part owner of the French trike leader Air Creation — invented the new name and has been working hard to establish a unique way to have fun in the air. The result is more about life style than the nuts and bolts of airplane buying and owning. Once called a “Safari” before upgrading to the new program, Aero-Trekking is a adventure program that will appeal to participants willing to pay for deluxe service. You’ll fly with a qualified person over gorgeous scenery getting a view few others will ever see. You stay at night in stunning new homes; some sites are operating now, others are under new construction in several southwestern destinations. Of course, current pilots can do their own flying in modern Air Creation trikes provided by the Aero-Trekkers and John’s business offers instruction for those who want to mix some learning with their fun.

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Light-Sport Aircraft Massing for Sun ‘n Fun

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Not very many hangars in the U.S. have this many of one make and model LSA filling them. Six color-matched Flight Design CTsw models are ready for Sun ‘n Fun.

Lots more fun than a military build-up but bearing some resemblance, companies across the USA are preparing for Sun ‘n Fun starting Tuesday the 4th. I was on the grounds today and it already looks busy. I also traveled to Lockwood Aviation at the Sebring, Florida airport. A busy crew was assembling airplanes from Flight Design and Tecnam in preparation for the show in nearby Lakeland. Other companies set up at South Lakeland Airpark — the relaxed strip a mere three air miles from Sun ‘n Fun (where I do the majority of my flight evaluations). Today, I got a chance to compare a late-model 2005 CTsw with the 2006 model; look for the full report in EAA Sport Pilot for June 2006. Tomorrow, the folks at Sport Aircraft Works are hosting me to fly the Parrot, Sport Cruiser, and Mermaid from Czech Aircraft Works. You know…”Tough job but somebody has to do it.”

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Lots more fun than a military build-up but bearing some resemblance, companies across the USA are preparing for Sun ‘n Fun starting Tuesday the 4th. I was on the grounds today and it already looks busy. I also traveled to Lockwood Aviation at the Sebring, Florida airport. A busy crew was assembling airplanes from Flight Design and Tecnam in preparation for the show in nearby Lakeland. Other companies set up at South Lakeland Airpark — the relaxed strip a mere three air miles from Sun ‘n Fun (where I do the majority of my flight evaluations). Today, I got a chance to compare a late-model 2005 CTsw with the 2006 model; look for the full report in EAA Sport Pilot for June 2006. Tomorrow, the folks at Sport Aircraft Works are hosting me to fly the Parrot, Sport Cruiser, and Mermaid from Czech Aircraft Works.

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Industry Reacts to Cessna’s “Study” of LSA Market

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Taken from my talk at last year’s AOPA Expo in Tampa, this screen shows many of the top brands in the LSA field. Most are not well known, whereas Cessna brings an established brand name and a infrastructure that may prove useful for all.

Industry response was swift and varied to Cessna‘s announcement that the big manufacturer will study the LSA market for a possible entry. Also, an earlier announcement from EAA was updated to reflect that the Cessna mock-up (now called a “proof-of-concept” display) will be south of AeroShell Square…which means just north of, but very near, the LSA Mall. Sportair USA president Bill Canino said, “We welcome Cessna to the LSA market; it is a tremendous impact to see a large player in our sandbox.” Others expressed curiosity as to what Cessna might bring to market, “If [Cessna’s LSA] is a ‘152 Lite,’ it may not be that appealing…[yet] this will legitimize sport planes particularly with flight schools.” Flight Design‘s Matthias Betsch and his U.S. importer Tom Peghiny also find Cessna’s potential entry to be a validation of their efforts and repeated the feeling that this will help convince flight schools that LSA are viable for training use. Others remain nervous, saying the big company’s entry could mean “the death of many imported planes.” Time will tell, but come to AirVenture 2006 and judge for yourself.

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Industry response was swift and varied to Cessna‘s announcement that the big manufacturer will study the LSA market for a possible entry. Also, an earlier announcement from EAA was updated to reflect that the Cessna mock-up (now called a “proof-of-concept” display) will be south of AeroShell Square…which means just north of, but very near, the LSA Mall. Sportair USA president Bill Canino said, “We welcome Cessna to the LSA market; it is a tremendous impact to see a large player in our sandbox.” Others expressed curiosity as to what Cessna might bring to market, “If [Cessna’s LSA] is a ‘152 Lite,’ it may not be that appealing…[yet] this will legitimize sport planes particularly with flight schools.” Flight Design‘s Matthias Betsch and his U.S. importer Tom Peghiny also find Cessna’s potential entry to be a validation of their efforts and repeated the feeling that this will help convince flight schools that LSA are viable for training use.

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RV Builder Van’s Aircraft Joins LSA Parade

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

Van’s Aircraft RV-12 current specs (“subject to change”): span 26 ft 8 in, 120 sq ft wing, 750 pounds empty, 138 mph top speed and 51 mph stall (all pretty standard for this configuration). RV-12 is designed to be trailered potentially saving hangar fees.

Using their characteristic low-key approach (unlike Cessna’s splashy introduction) Van’s Aircraft revealed their prototype RV-12 at AirVenture 2006. I spoke with legendary designer Dick van Grunsven about his new model to hear it shares some characteristics with sailplanes: quickly removable wings are modeled on a glider-type spar pin system, and full-span ailerons (which help simplify the wing removal). RV-12 also sports a large volume tail, much bigger than the tiny tail feathers of the Cessna LSA POC, with an all-flying stabilator. “We hope to fly this prototype in September or October…and kits should ship in late 2007.” Dick added that he plans to evaluate selling fly-away models; doing so would represent quite a shift for the big kit supplier. *** So now we LSA enthusiasts find ourselves with no less than 38 certified aircraft soon to be joined by the world’s largest airplane builder and the world’s largest kit builder. No one doubts anymore that Light-Sport Aircraft have arrived.

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Using their characteristic low-key approach (unlike Cessna’s splashy introduction) Van’s Aircraft revealed their prototype RV-12 at AirVenture 2006. I spoke with legendary designer Dick van Grunsven about his new model to hear it shares some characteristics with sailplanes: quickly removable wings are modeled on a glider-type spar pin system, and full-span ailerons (which help simplify the wing removal). RV-12 also sports a large volume tail, much bigger than the tiny tail feathers of the Cessna LSA POC, with an all-flying stabilator. “We hope to fly this prototype in September or October…and kits should ship in late 2007.” Dick added that he plans to evaluate selling fly-away models; doing so would represent quite a shift for the big kit supplier. *** So now we LSA enthusiasts find ourselves with no less than 38 certified aircraft soon to be joined by the world’s largest airplane builder and the world’s largest kit builder.

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3Xtrim Navigator Is Newest SLSA (#86)

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

3Xtrim’s new SLSA Navigator 600 comes standard with an 18.2 gallon fuel tank though large-capacity, long-range tanks are available. Wing area 127.4 square feet; empty weight 716 pounds; payload 496 pounds with full fuel giving a 400 mile range. More specs.

At Sebring 2007, I flew an enjoyable airplane from Poland with the uninspiring name of 3X55 Trainer (see my blog post). A re-engineered and renamed Navigator 600 received SLSA certification on August 22, 2008. [UPDATE 2/19/09] — The North American importer is 3Xtrim Inc. *** Navigator grew up and now boasts a 1,320 pound gross weight and a useful load of 600 pounds with a 47.2-inch cabin width, specified producer, 3Xtrim. I thought 3X55 looked small but she felt sufficiently roomy inside. 3X55 was also very straightforward to fly at modest speeds (88 knots at cruise). And it was so simple to land that the earlier model easily justified the “Trainer” label. *** [UPDATE 7/1/09] 3Xtrim, Inc., reports several N-numbered Navigator 600s are flying in the U.S. and four more are expected soon. Base price for a reasonably well-equipped Navigator is $99,000. Customers can upgrade to a Navigator LTD with the Dynon D100 EFIS; a Garmin SL40 radio and GTX-327 transponder; Airgizmo GPS mount for your choice of Garmin GPS in the x96 series; wheel pants; tinted glass all around; and position lights for $109,000 which represents a good value at today’s euro/dollar exchange (~1.40). Navigator options include amphibious floats, skis, a dedicated trailer, or even a glider tow hook.

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At Sebring 2007, I flew an enjoyable airplane from Poland with the uninspiring name of 3X55 Trainer (see my blog post). A re-engineered and renamed Navigator 600 received SLSA certification on August 22, 2008. [UPDATE 2/19/09] — The North American importer is 3Xtrim Inc. *** Navigator grew up and now boasts a 1,320 pound gross weight and a useful load of 600 pounds with a 47.2-inch cabin width, specified producer, 3Xtrim. I thought 3X55 looked small but she felt sufficiently roomy inside. 3X55 was also very straightforward to fly at modest speeds (88 knots at cruise). And it was so simple to land that the earlier model easily justified the “Trainer” label. *** [UPDATE 7/1/09] 3Xtrim, Inc., reports several N-numbered Navigator 600s are flying in the U.S. and four more are expected soon. Base price for a reasonably well-equipped Navigator is $99,000.

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Lycoming Announces LSA Powerplant, the IO-233

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From top left, clockwise: Rotax 912S; Jabiru 3300; Lycoming IO-233; Continental O-200 *** Weight review (valid approximations): Rotax 912S ~141 pounds — Jabiru 3300 ~178 pounds — Continental O-200 ~190 pounds — Lycoming IO-233 ~200-210 pounds

Here come the American engines! Rotax 912s from Austria presently dominate the LSA market with an estimated 70% of installations. Australia’s Jabiru with two engines (85-hp 2200 and 120-hp 3300) has another estimated 15%, leaving the U.S.-built Continental O-200 with about 15%. *** The Lycoming O-235 has been used (in Falcon LS and an RV-9 ELSA) but never LSA optimized. At Oshkosh ’08, the Pennsylvania company announced development of their IO-233 aimed specifically at LSA. At its heart, the new engine is an O-235, but it’s been equipped with electronic ignition, fuel injection in lieu of carburetors, and smaller jugs. “We shaved 40 pounds with thinner induction pipes and a less bulky flywheel, among other changes,” said Mike Kraft, Lycoming’s VP of engineering.” The IO-233 can produce 100 horsepower at 2400 rpm and 116 horsepower at 2700 rpm. *** Despite the weight reductions, the new Lycoming will be significantly heavier than a Rotax 912, perhaps a third more (installed weight can vary due to a variety of factors — see photo legend). However, the Lycoming has a 2400-hour TBO, much longer than Rotax’s 1500 hours. Kraft said the IO-233 will run on high-octane mogas or 100LL. The company expects to meet ASTM standards but is still looking at Part 33 approval. No price was announced.

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Here come the American engines! Rotax 912s from Austria presently dominate the LSA market with an estimated 70% of installations. Australia’s Jabiru with two engines (85-hp 2200 and 120-hp 3300) has another estimated 15%, leaving the U.S.-built Continental O-200 with about 15%. *** The Lycoming O-235 has been used (in Falcon LS and an RV-9 ELSA) but never LSA optimized. At Oshkosh ’08, the Pennsylvania company announced development of their IO-233 aimed specifically at LSA. At its heart, the new engine is an O-235, but it’s been equipped with electronic ignition, fuel injection in lieu of carburetors, and smaller jugs. “We shaved 40 pounds with thinner induction pipes and a less bulky flywheel, among other changes,” said Mike Kraft, Lycoming’s VP of engineering.” The IO-233 can produce 100 horsepower at 2400 rpm and 116 horsepower at 2700 rpm.

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Chubby LSA from Canada Offers Huge Interior

By Dan Johnson || 4 Comments

Ecoflyer is related to the Private Explorer, a larger and much heavier “flying camper.” The Canadian company also makes floats for aircraft up to 6,000 pounds.

Just one glance at the Canadian-developed Ecoflyer confirms its size. Looking like an overweight American, Ecoflyer nonetheless boasts enough room to set up a small dining table in a spacious cabin that could later be converted to your bedroom. Ecoflyer’s cabin contains 152 cubic feet of volume, only 13 feet less than a Chrysler minivan that seats seven. You may only be able to take one family member along but if you want to fly your LSA to a remote field and camp for the night, Ecoflyer could be your Light-Sport flying machine. “It’s intended to be used as shelter when on the ground,” said Bernard Laferrière, president of Explorer Aéronautique, based in French-speaking Québec. The flying seat backs flip around so two occupants can face aft. Two more can sit facing forward in an aft cavity. *** Empty weight is a fairly remarkable 750 pounds, low considering even the simple Cub-like LSA designs have to work hard to stay below the LSA maximum empty weight of 890 pounds. Part of weight minimization employs a Y-joystick accessible to either pilot. Engine choices are the 100-hp Rotax or 120-hp Jabiru. Delivery is expected by summer of 2009. Ecoflyer is priced about $100,000.

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Just one glance at the Canadian-developed Ecoflyer confirms its size. Looking like an overweight American, Ecoflyer nonetheless boasts enough room to set up a small dining table in a spacious cabin that could later be converted to your bedroom. Ecoflyer’s cabin contains 152 cubic feet of volume, only 13 feet less than a Chrysler minivan that seats seven. You may only be able to take one family member along but if you want to fly your LSA to a remote field and camp for the night, Ecoflyer could be your Light-Sport flying machine. “It’s intended to be used as shelter when on the ground,” said Bernard Laferrière, president of Explorer Aéronautique, based in French-speaking Québec. The flying seat backs flip around so two occupants can face aft. Two more can sit facing forward in an aft cavity. *** Empty weight is a fairly remarkable 750 pounds, low considering even the simple Cub-like LSA designs have to work hard to stay below the LSA maximum empty weight of 890 pounds.

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LSA Over the Years; Observing Trends

By Dan Johnson || Leave a Comment

The LSA industry has done well to put more than 1,400 new airplanes in American skies in approximately three years. And we have yet to add deliveries of big companies like Cessna (Skycatcher), Cirrus (SRS), Icon (A5) and more.

Light-Sport Aircraft burst on the aviation scene in April 2005. By the end of that year, less than 50 had been registered with FAA. But in 2006, 2007, and so far in 2008, growth has been brisk…if somewhat erratic. *** It may seem a bit early to be blogging about an “historical perspective” on LSA, but looking at the trend line illustrates something I find fascinating. Sales of recreational-class flying machines closely track the major shows at which they’re exhibited: Sebring, Sun ‘n Fun, and Oshkosh. AOPA’s Expo also has an influence but it is less demonstrable than the other three. *** Also, you can easily see the effect of the 2008 U.S. economic slow-down that has afflicted general aviation as well as light sport aviation. (Even bizjets may begin to show this effect, according to experts, as their backlogs mean present-day strong deliveries were from orders placed in the economic high times of 2005.) *** Consumers of LSA buy them for fun flying as well as regional trips, so when the economy gets shaky, many pull back until they have a clearer view of what’s ahead. The good news is that current LSA businesses are rapidly building infrastructure — check the growth in our FIRM List as an example — and more new SLSA models are still in development.

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Light-Sport Aircraft burst on the aviation scene in April 2005. By the end of that year, less than 50 had been registered with FAA. But in 2006, 2007, and so far in 2008, growth has been brisk…if somewhat erratic. *** It may seem a bit early to be blogging about an “historical perspective” on LSA, but looking at the trend line illustrates something I find fascinating. Sales of recreational-class flying machines closely track the major shows at which they’re exhibited: Sebring, Sun ‘n Fun, and Oshkosh. AOPA’s Expo also has an influence but it is less demonstrable than the other three. *** Also, you can easily see the effect of the 2008 U.S. economic slow-down that has afflicted general aviation as well as light sport aviation. (Even bizjets may begin to show this effect, according to experts, as their backlogs mean present-day strong deliveries were from orders placed in the economic high times of 2005.) *** Consumers of LSA buy them for fun flying as well as regional trips, so when the economy gets shaky, many pull back until they have a clearer view of what’s ahead.

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