Can you really find an affordable aircraft? And where’s the best place to find one? Our LSA expert Dan Johnson says the answers to both of those questions are “yes,” and he gives you several examples of affordable flying machines to check out.
A year-end update on proposed changes to LSA
What’s the latest on the FAA’s plan to update the Light-Sport Aircraft rules? Our LSA expert, Dan Johnson, breaks down what we know as of the end of 2021.
Affordable aviation: How one man makes it work
By buying carefully, adding his own labors, and selling to someone glad to have a fully-finished experimental airplane, Wes has been able to keep his cost of acquisition surprisingly low. Based on figures we discussed, I’d guess Wes is in for about the value of a deluxe new SUV — and I’d call that achievement both inventive and economic.
Aerobatics in an LSA
Magnus Aircraft’s Fusion 212 LSA, which the company claims has “superb aerobatic capabilities,” is being touted as a great way to teach pilots upset recovery training.
A bargain-priced helicopter you can fly
Composite-FX’s XEL is a factory-built helicopter, bargain priced at $52,000. GA pilots should have no problem flying the aircraft, which falls under the Part 103 regulations, company officials claim.
Major course change for FAA on LSA update
When general aviation advocates pushed back against proposed changes to the light-sport aircraft rules — calling many of the FAA’s ideas “overly complex” — a stunning thing occurred: The FAA agreed. Many of those proposals, including Light Personal Aircraft, the Power Index, and a 200-hp cap are now history.
The latest on the updates to LSA regulations
While the new Light-Sport Aircraft rules are still being hammered out, we do know a few things: Look for a new category of airplane — Light Personal Aircraft (LPA) — as well as weight increases for LSAs, the addition of some legacy aircraft to the LSA category, and more.
Is aviation in trouble? Or are kids finding their way into the sky?
If this young man is any example of what’s ahead for aviation in America, all is well. Jat’s not alone, of course. Many young people around the country are pursing aviation.
SUN ‘n FUN 2021: A glorious return to normal
Electric aircraft, speedy new Light-Sport Aircraft, a “good” Tornado, and nightly STOL competitions were just some of the highlights at Paradise City, the LSA area of SUN ‘n FUN 2021.