Talk about airplanes! At last count, there are 39 (and growing) FAA certificated S-LSA (special light sport aircraft). These are factory-built ready to fly airplanes. If you can't afford a factory-built LSA, consider buying an E-LSA kit (experimental LSA - up to 99% complete).
drseti wrote:Unlike SportPilot, I would gladly trade the O200 for more useful load. The weight difference between it and the Rotax equates to another 10 gallons of fuel. That's two extra hours of endurance!
agreed, a US made Skycatcher with a 912s and doors that stay closed would be a lot better trainer and more marketable
You mean…like the Glasair Merlin LSA?
Looks just like a Skycatcher, similar numbers, Rotax 912i Sport engine, Dynon Skyview, BRS, etc
Thanks for a potentially useful "Heads Up". This was the first I'd heard of the Glasair Merlin project. Looks like a Skycatcher clone alright, but with some interesting improvements. And - BONUS - since they're made right here in Western WA, I might venture a road trip to Arlington and look into it. If they can really bring it to market at (advertised) $139K loaded, I think it will sell.
Dennis wrote:"If they can really bring it to market at (advertised) $139K loaded, I think it will sell."
Did you call them and get a quote? I don't see any prices on the web page, or am I missing something?
Dennis Persyk Skycatcher N900DP based 68IS
Dennis,
He're's a link with some info from last year. I 'believe' Glasair were looking at $149K for a single Skyview airplane. Add a second screen and and a/p and 'perhaps' the BRS and it's another $10k (Not sure about the BRS option.