SmartDeck selected for new EV-55 Outback

Esterline CMC Electronics’ SmartDeck integrated avionics suite has been selected by Evektor of the Czech Republic, for the multipurpose EV-55 Outback aircraft.

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Gearing up for Sun ’n Fun

Sun ’n Fun 2012 is about to begin. Billed as the “Spring Break for Pilots,” the central Florida airshow is revving up in numerous ways, thanks partly to the show’s new leader, John “Lites” Leenhouts (and yes, everyone really does call him “Lites,” his Navy pilot nickname). His team is refreshed and ready for a new event. The turmoil from last year’s tornado is behind them and many changes are planned.

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Making movies, talking aviation

When videographer Dave Loveman first approached me in 2009 about doing videos I was hesitant. I may have been unsure, but website visitors spoke clearly and you know what? I like doing them as much as you like viewing them. More than 138 videos are available, all for free. Many more are works in process.

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Sporty’s launches new learn to fly course

Sporty’s has launched a new Learn to Fly Course, which provides learning tracks for Private, Recreational and Sport Pilot – or any combination.

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Flying the Alto 100

While Sebring 2012 crowds were the best ever and plentiful aircraft made for good shopping resulting in a flurry of sales, one of the best aspects of Sebring 2012 was ideal weather. Numerous pilots experienced some of their final choices before handing over the cash. Such perfect conditions also allowed reporters to get in on the action. More detailed reports will follow but now I am pleased to offer a mini-report on the Alto 100.

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Onex hardware kits at Wicks Aircraft

Wicks Aircraft Supply has reached an agreement with Oshkosh-based Sonex Aircraft to supply the hardware kits for its new Onex (pronounced “one-x”).

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Flying the Allegro

LSA America builds the Czech-designed Allegro in America as one of the first companies (but not the last, I suspect) to cross the Atlantic. Ironically, this results in an aircraft less expensive than other LSAs that come from Eastern European countries where we once thought low wages and high aviation skills would upset U.S. airplane manufacturing. Funny how life works out, and in only six or seven years.

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Cessna takes commanding lead in LSA market

The LSA Market Share numbers are complete for 2011 and we offer them below.

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Flying car to make auto show debut

The Transition Roadable Aircraft, developed by Terrafugia, Inc., makes its auto show debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), April 6-15 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City.

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Flying the Evektor Harmony

The Light-Sport Aircraft movement is coming of age. During the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo held in Sebring, Florida, last month, many LSA manufacturers showed off the next generation of their designs, including Evektor Aircraft.

The Czech Republic-based company, which has the distinction of producing the first LSA certified in the U.S., showcased the Evektor Harmony at the Sebring show. Like its predecessor the popular Evektor SportStar, the Harmony is a low-wing metal design. Although there is a familial resemblance in the design, it’s obvious the engineers at the Evektor factory have been working to improve a good thing. The Harmony has a more refined, elegant look to it.

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