Calypso SP has a gross weight rating of 1,100, well under the common LSA figure of 1,320 pounds. But it’s so light (552 pounds) that it still has a useful load of 548 pounds and a full fuel payload of 446 pounds. The best news, though, may be the price: $63,900. Email for more info.
Pete and Ben Krotje and their team have done it again. They won an Special Light-Sport Aircraft airworthiness certificate for Calypso SP, their third and SLSA number 40 in the USA. Last November the Shelbyville, Tennessee company certified the roomy J-250 and flight school-oriented J-170. Pete said, “Calypso Sport is a Special-Light Sport certificated version of Jabiru’s proven UL with wheel pants, six-inch wheels, winglets, and other upgrades.” Calypso SP’s lower ventral fin has been reduced in size and the flaps have been extended by 72 inches. This resulted in a LSA that stalls at 35 knots, demonstrates a very short takeoff, and has near-motorglider performance at a reported 18:1 with the engine at idle. Jabiru USA says Calypso SP can cruise at 100 knots on less than four gallons an hour but when operated around 70 knots sips a mere two gallons per hour. The SLSA airworthiness was awarded on September 8th. But like many LSA suppliers, Jabiru USA is so busy that getting a photo took a bit longer.
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