Enz started his flying adventure with a discovery flight in 2010. At the time, his career in construction management (and graduate school) made it challenging to pound out flight training, but he stuck with it. While moving around the country for work, he continued his flight training at locations in Missouri, North Carolina, Texas, and Colorado, eventually persevering from private to CFII.

When the COVID-19 pandemic brought construction projects to a halt, Enz found himself at a crossroad with a decision to make: Embark on a totally new career as a licensed financial planner or figure out how to make flying pay the bills better than it did as a CFI. He chose the road that eventually led him to flying Part 135 and Part 91 operations in a Hawker 800. 

Enz had already been a FLYING Magazine subscriber for a few years when the Ultimate Giveaway was conceived. As a loyal subscriber, he was automatically, if not unwittingly, entered in the sweepstakes. And you already know how this ends—he won, albeit somewhat reluctantly.

FLYING staff reached out to Enz to share the wonderful news of his good fortune in April. Having received the notification just the day before his PIC check ride for the Hawker 800, he had other things on his mind and believed he was “being scammed.” His email response to being notified that he won a sweepstake  he didn’t realize he’d entered was simply “not interested.”

After a bit of convincing, some due diligence, and vetting, Enz came around to the realization that this was not too good to be true and, in fact, he had arrived at yet another crossroad: Take delivery of a new aircraft or laugh all the way to the bank.

At this point in his flying career, owning a light aircraft isn’t in the cards as a busy, often out-of-town professional pilot slipping through the flight levels in a Hawker spooled up to 0.65 Mach. 

Fortunately, the Ultimate Giveaway, unlike other sweepstakes, afforded the winner an opportunity to choose between two very cool aircraft—a Tecnam Astore and an ICON A-5—or cash out with a truckload of legal tender. As you might imagine, since Enz hails from the Show Me State, he followed the lead of Cuba Gooding Jr.’s character Rod Tidwell in the 1996 movie Jerry Maquire and opted for FLYING to “Show me the money.”

The $100,000 cash option was the best fit for Enz. That makes perfect sense because we all know what makes an aircraft fly—money. He did mention the idea of possibly using some of his winnings to pursue a seaplane endorsement. As you’ll soon read in the July/August issue of FLYING Magazine, many pilots have an attraction to water, so adding a SES rating is a common bucket-list item.

We congratulate Enz on his good fortune and wish him well in his professional and recreational flying career. We also thank everyone who participated in the Ultimate Giveaway, even if you weren’t aware that you did, we’re looking out for you. Afterall, who wouldn’t like to get a call from FLYING notifying you that you just won a new aircraft?

Stay tuned, something fun is always just over the horizon—it will no doubt be equally exciting. That hardest part will be determining what to call it so it surpasses Ultimate.

The post Missouri Pilot Opts for Cash in Ultimate FLYING Giveaway appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The wide world of aircraft is now open to you, but what can you actually fly? Part of being a good pilot is recognizing that sometimes our eyes are bigger than our skill set. While hopping into a high-performance World War II warbird is a great goal, it is probably not the thing to do while waiting for the ink to dry on that new certificate.

That said, there will be a learning curve with any new-to-you model—and the possibilities are nearly limitless. Here are a few options to get you started that you can either step into right away or require just a few hours of further training.

Ultra-Modern: Cirrus SR22

If what turns your head is a sophisticated aircraft with advanced avionics, comfortable cockpit, and safety features such as a whole-airframe parachute, consider the Cirrus SR22 series. It may not be an entirely new model for everyone, given that it does see use in the training environment. However, between the depth of available features and its capabilities, there’s plenty of room for even more advanced pilots to expand their skill sets to take better advantage of all the model has to offer.

The latest version of the nonturbocharged SR22, the recently unveiled G7, boasts a top cruise speed of 181 knots, 1,169 nm range, and useful load of 1,326 pounds. Capable of seating up to five, it comes equipped with the G3000-esque Perspective Touch+ by Garmin avionics suite and offers an array of advanced features, including crew alerting system (CAS) linked checklists and taxiway routing. The SR22 is also a capable IFR machine, so becoming familiar with the model could be a particularly good option if you’re looking toward your next rating.

• READ MORE: This 2017 Cirrus SR22T Is a High-Performance, Parachute-Protected ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Keep in mind that there can be a lot of variation within a model type. If you’ve flown an early generation SR22 in training, you could find yourself in for a few surprises when you get into the cockpit of a newer version like the G7—or vice versa. This holds true for any model that has seen updates over multiple production cycles, so check that you are familiar with the specific configuration of the version you’re getting ready to fly well before takeoff.

In general, the SR22 is faster than many trainers and a bit less forgiving than something like a Cessna 172, particularly when it comes to approach and landing speeds. If you’re stepping up from a slower airplane, beware of falling behind the aircraft.

To act as PIC, you will need a high-performance endorsement: typically five to 10 hours of additional training with the instructor signing you off once they feel you are competent. Insurance requirements will likely dictate the final amount.

As a side note, if you’re going all-in and buying a used Cirrus rather than renting, the company offers up to three days of instruction with one of its authorized training partners free of charge via the Cirrus Embark program. Free transition training with the experts is hard to come by and extraordinarily valuable, so don’t miss out.

Vintage: Piper J-3 Cub

Is there anything more iconic in general aviation than a little yellow Piper J-3 Cub? If you’re looking to get places quickly, overcoming all inclement weather, and staying aloft for as long as biology allows, move along. This isn’t the one for you.

But if what you want is a nostalgic meander through beautiful VFR days, honing your stick-and-rudder skills while feeling the wind in your hair, the Cub can be a great model to turn to. Introduced in 1937, the two-seat J-3 is among the most recognizable models around with nearly 20,000 produced and a stock paint job so identifiable that the color came to be called “Cub Yellow.”

• READ MORE: This 1947 Piper J-3 Cub Is a Historic, Beloved ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Turning to the practicalities, if you don’t already have one, you will need a tailwheel endorsement to fly a J-3. It takes a rough average of 10 hours to complete but will put an array of interesting aircraft within your scope. Be warned: It will not be like flying a tricycle-gear trainer. Tailwheel aircraft have their own traps waiting for the unwary pilot—a much stronger predilection for ground loops, for example—so find a good instructor and pay close attention to the differences in handling characteristics. That said, with solid instruction flying a Cub is well within reach for a newer private pilot.

Pay attention to loading once you’re cleared to go up on your own. The Cub is little and light—two good-sized people can overload it, and it’s just not built for carrying much cargo. The stock 1947 version is powered by a 65 hp Continental engine (the earliest model had just 40 hp), offering a cruise speed of around 65 knots, 191 nm range, and useful load of 455 pounds.

To be fair, the J-3 is also not going to win any awards for cabin comfort. What it has, though, is style and history. The Cub is also a reasonable place to start if you’re looking to fly more complicated vintage aircraft in the future.

Solid Performance: Cessna 172 Skyhawk

Sometimes it just isn’t worth messing with a good thing. The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is a reliable, stable performer with a long history of taking pilots where they need to go. It is easy to fly, easy to land, and capable of a little bit of everything. That’s why it remains such a popular all-around trainer.

Alongside its general cabin comfort, those same characteristics make it a great option for new private pilots. In addition to being familiar to many, it requires no further endorsements or ratings and keeps to speeds common to other ab initio training aircraft—meaning timing in the cockpit will likely be similar even if you learned in something else. Furthermore, if you’re going to be renting, they’re easy to find pretty much anywhere.

• READ MORE: This 1968 Cessna 172 Skyhawk Is an All-Around Capable ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Like many of the other aircraft discussed, there is a lot of variation in 172 models even when only considering stock versions. Get to know the specific model you’ll be flying. Among other examples—and it probably goes without saying at this point—if you trained on one type of avionics (i.e. glass vs. analog gauges or Garmin flight deck vs. Avidyne), plopping yourself down in front of another without someone to teach you best practices and pitfalls is, quite frankly, a terrible idea. If what’s available to you is different in any significant way than what you trained on, grab a qualified instructor and log some learning time before heading out on your own.

The latest Skyhawk model has a top cruise speed of 124 knots, range of 640 nm, and useful load of 878 pounds. It comes equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics and can seat the pilot plus three passengers. While it may seem too plain for some—it isn’t the fastest, leggiest, or tech-iest for sure—there’s no reason not to love a jack-of-all trades aircraft like the 172.

On the Water: ICON A5

If you are looking to head toward the water with your new certificate, it is worth taking a look at the ICON A5 amphibious light sport aircraft (LSA). Designed with recreational aviation in mind, it aims to provide a simple, fun flying experience even for pilots new to seaplanes. It comes with many safety features, including a whole-airframe parachute.

As of December when the FAA granted it type certification in the primary category, the two-seat ICON A5 is available in certified and special light sport aircraft (S-LSA) versions. Both have a top speed of 95 knots, a 427 nm range, and a useful load of 430 pounds. Certified and S-LSA A5s are powered by the fuel-injected Rotax 912iS engine and come equipped with the Garmin aera 796.

• READ MORE: This 2017 ICON A5 Is a Fun-Loving Amphibian ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

When acting as PIC, the primary difference between the two versions is what you are required to have to fly one. To operate the certified edition in the U.S., you will need a private pilot certificate and seaplane rating. However, the S-LSA model, which ICON began delivering to customers in 2017, will continue to require a sport pilot certificate with a seaplane endorsement. Make sure you know what you need to legally fly the model in front of you.

If a seaplane rating or endorsement is all that stands in your way, the time frame for getting one tends to be about the same as the tailwheel endorsement: typically five to 10 hours of dedicated instruction, with the bar being when the instructor feels you are demonstrating proficiency.

Like most seaplane models, it can be quite difficult to find an A5 to rent. However, if you’re in the market for your own aircraft or one is available to you, it makes for a good launch into the world of amphibious aircraft.

Jet-A Traveler: Diamond DA40 NG

The four-seat Diamond DA40 NG has made a name for itself as a sleek, efficient, and easy-to-fly option for everyone from students to experienced IFR pilots. Its Austro AE 300 engine burns jet-A, making it a great entry-level choice for pilots looking to fly cross-country and/or in areas where avgas isn’t readily available. It is worth noting that the NG’s counterpart, the avgas-burning DA40 XLT, is a significantly different airplane, though worthy of consideration in its own right.

Along with offering great visibility through the bubble canopy, the DA40 NG is a comfortable cross-country machine with good range and reasonable speed for its type. As with the 172, no additional ratings or endorsements are needed to fly one. Once introductory flights are complete and you are comfortable with the aircraft, you’re good to go.

• READ MORE: The Diamond Aircraft Story Continues to Evolve

The newest version of the DA40 NG sports a top cruise speed of 154 knots, 934 nm range, and useful load of 897 pounds. Notably, its fuel consumption comes in at just 5.1 gallons per hour. On the avionics side, it is equipped with the Garmin G1000 NXi flight deck.

In addition to its range, the fuel burn in particular makes the DA40 NG an attractive choice for a new private pilot looking to go places. It can travel a long way on much less than many of its competitors. Another point in the model’s favor is the cockpit noise…or lack thereof. The diesel engine runs on the quieter side.

The DA40 NG is a well-behaved flyer, so transitioning to one shouldn’t be too complicated for most—assuming you didn’t learn to fly in one in the first place.

Fair Winds, Clear Skies

There are a nearly endless number of aircraft models out there, with pathways available straight to the left seats of a great many. While it may take step-ups, additional ratings, or endorsements, make a plan, get the training, and go for your dream airplane.

Who knows? You may even fall in love with a few others along the way.

This feature first appeared in the March 2024/Issue 946 of FLYING’s print edition.

The post Dream Aircraft: What Can You Fly? appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

ICON announced a 60-pound increase in the A5’s gross weight, which results in a higher useful load of 490 pounds. Because the aircraft can burn less than 5 gallons per hour, the increased gross weight equates to two more hours of endurance or the ability to carry more cargo or heavier passengers.

• READ MORE: ICON A5 Receives FAA Primary Category Type Certification

The company said all 2024 ICON A5s will include the weight increase, and owners of earlier A5s can upgrade to the same performance level with an option package that includes a lightweight four-blade propeller from E-Props.

“In response to feedback from our owners and prospective customers, we elected to undertake further research and development to test the airframe and fully understand what we needed to do to increase the useful load,” said ICON CEO Jerry Meyer. “The solution is a reinforcement of our commitment to innovation, and a 60-pound increase is significant, especially in the LSA category.”

The new propeller, which is standard equipment on all new A5 LSAs, reduced the aircraft’s ground takeoff roll by 21 percent in standard conditions.

• READ MORE: Low Altitude Adventures Adds Second ICON A5 to Membership Program

“The four-blade propeller is a huge upgrade to my ICON A5,” said Santiago Masdeau, an ICON A5 owner based in South Florida. “I’ve flown more than 100 hours with the original three-blade, and now I have around 20 hours on the new carbon fiber four-blade. Immediately, I noticed less vibration and noise, better acceleration, and improved takeoff distances.”

The 2024 ICON A5 Limited Edition starts at $409,000, with the Garmin G3X Touch available as an upgrade. Additional options include autopilot, digital altitude indicator, Signature paint schemes and colors, and Sirius XM Weather. Announcement of the recent improvements follow the FAA type certification of the A5 in the primary category.

The post ICON Aircraft Announces Gross Weight Increase for A5 Amphibian appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Today’s Top Pick is a 2017 ICON A5.

The ICON A5 has been attracting attention for more than a decade, from its emergence as a concept in the late 2000s to prototypes and then reaching the market around 2016. From the beginning, this light sport aircraft was aimed at potential buyers who were not longtime aviation enthusiasts but adventure seekers who enjoy exciting activities. Experiencing the joy of flight has always been the main goal with the A5, though you certainly can travel in it, often to remote spots that would be difficult to reach without an amphibious aircraft.

Back in late 2015 I had the pleasure of flying the A5 off the Hudson River during a promotional event in New York. Many pilots fly the special VFR corridor over the Hudson to take in stunning views of the skyline, but relatively few begin the flight by taking off from the river. I will never forget flying over the George Washington Bridge while feeling the breeze on my face through the ICON’s semi-open cockpit. This was pure VFR flying.

This ICON A5 has 733 hours on the airframe and engine. The airframe parachute was repacked recently.

Pilots seeking a compact, maneuverable amphibian airplane that offers access to places you might not reach otherwise should consider this 2017 ICON A5, which is available for $240,000 on AircraftForSale. 

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

• FLYING Magazine: ICON A5 Receives FAA Primary Category Type Certification
• FLYING Magazine: ICON A5 Among Aircraft To Appear at Detroit Auto Show
• FLYING Magazine: Low Altitude Adventures Adds Second ICON A5 to Membership Program
• Plane & Pilot: The Icon A5: An LSA Amphib That Handles Like A Dream
• Plane & Pilot: The ICON A5 Has Arrived
• The Aviation Consumer: Seaplane Transitions: ’Tis the Season

The post This 2017 ICON A5 Is a Fun-Loving Amphibian ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Yet as demonstrated by broad participation in art, music, or sport, individuals seek more than practical solutions. Sometimes the activities that inspire us most are those which free our minds and lift our spirits.

The aircraft in this portion of FLYING’s Buyers Guide this year might be called “joy machines,” for their mission is to elevate you—physically and emotionally.

Welcome to recreational—and, yes, affordable—aviation. To offer a taste of the 158 aircraft the FAA has accepted as special (fully built) light sport aircraft (LSA)—plus more than 100 kit-built models—I’ve divided the subject aircraft into several categories, with three outlined here. These aircraft are good representatives but between them account for just a small percentage of the models available.

Buyers enjoy many diverse choices, one of which might be perfect for them. I encourage you to explore the segment more fully at ByDanJohnson.com (to become AffordableAviation.com), now a member of the FLYING family.

Our Favorite LSA

Light sport aircraft have been part of the aviation firmament for almost 20 years, and over that time, some models established themselves even as newcomers regularly arrive. The way the FAA accepts (not “certifies”) these airplanes allows rapid improvement, which has stimulated surprisingly fast progress. What will happen as the Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification’s (MOSAIC) recent rulemaking comes to conclusion looks like it will only serve to expand upon the grand variety and capability we witness on the market—such as expanding the envelope of the Bristell SLSA featured in our opening spread, and in the April 2023/Issue 936 edition of FLYING.

• READ MORE: We Fly: BRM Aero Bristell SLSA

The Evektor Harmony is a next-generation model following its SportStar, which will forever hold the title of the first special LSA accepted by the FAA in April 2005 only weeks after the new sport pilot/light sport aircraft regulation was released. Flight Design’s CT was accepted the same day.

Being first often conveys some advantage, but in an industry where new ideas often emerge, a successful producer cannot long rest on past achievements. Based in an aviation-rich area of the Czech Republic, Evektor steadily upgraded its SportStar through a series of alterations. Later, the company introduced the Harmony with added sophistication.

The Harmony uses a more advanced compound wing—the leading edge does not form a straight line—to bring performance up to the top of the category (restricted by present regulation, which may change with MOSAIC). Pilots who fly the Harmony say it feels like a legacy GA airplane.

The Jabiru J-230D, hailing from Australia, is the result of years of development, beginning long before light sport aircraft came along. When FAA’s rule hit in 2004, the Down Under designer and manufacturer was quick to adapt its kit products to the new market.

The J-230D resembles the company’s J-400, a four-seater. That many seats aren’t permitted on LSA, so out they came, leaving an aft interior bigger than a Cessna 150. A third door sized for people brings the easiest luggage area loading among LSA—you can easily take your pet along. Jabiru is a rare airframe manufacturer that also makes its own engine. When you hear the word “Jabiru” (a large bird), you need to think airplane and powerplant, though the engines are also used on other airframes. A J-230D with the 6-cylinder Jabiru 3300 can readily hit the top speed among LSA.

The 2020 FLYING Editors’ Choice Award-winning Texas Aircraft Colt relies on the great success of a predecessor Brazilian design, but the Colt is all American. One of the newer aircraft to the LSA fleet in the U.S., developers had the advantage of seeing what pilots were buying…and what they were requesting.

With its conventional yoke control, the Colt breaks a familiar mold in LSA, an overwhelming majority of which use joysticks in various forms. A refined aircraft, the Colt is beautifully appointed inside and out, attracting pilots seeking a legacy GA airplane look in a ground-up-new design that can be operated by a sport or higher-certificated pilot exercising the no-medical privileges of LSA.

Built in Hondo, Texas, with local support, the Colt joins the best of an experienced Brazilian aircraft designer with American airplane-building capability in the U.S.

Seaplane LSAs

Seaplanes quickly earn a special place in some aviators’ hearts because of their unique ability to land on water and for the versatility that amphibious gear affords. The FAA recognized this interest and allowed 110 pounds more gross weight for qualifying seaplanes and also permitted amphibious gear. With a water-going craft, you have vastly more places to make a landing, whether for a pleasant visit or an emergency.

From its first announcement, pilots could see ICON’s A5 LSA seaplane was something distinctive. Its hull and fuselage blended form and function to retract gear invisibly while providing stability on the water. When its wings were electrically folded, jaws dropped; many envisioned how to launch A5 at their local marina.

The California developer went on to a long development period where every detail was sussed out to an intricate degree. The resultant aircraft that emerged addressed FAA’s current counsel to industry: “Make these aircraft easy to fly, operate, and maintain.” Three checks for ICON engineers and company leadership. They forged ahead while maintaining the smooth lines of early prototypes.

By 2022, ICON rose to be one of the leading suppliers in the LSA industry, and those of us lucky enough to have operated its well-located controls quickly acquired large smiles. A5 is simple and responsive, stall resistant, and stable. The modern sports car cabin is comfortable and spacious. Amphibious gear makes the A5 versatile and puts America’s many waterways on the list of available landing areas.

Vickers Aircraft closely observed ICON after it made a big splash with the A5. Vickers, based in New Zealand, saw an opportunity to achieve even more with its Wave. And engineers took a different approach to creating it. Using modern CAD methods and software similar to Boeing or Lockheed Martin, Vickers worked for years before unveiling a product but, when it did, it flew “right out of the box.” The company remains in testing as it works toward FAA acceptance but believes it can swiftly move to manufacturing because of the detailed preparation work. Indeed, elements are already being produced. The Wave first tempted buyers with prices substantially below ICON’s eye-watering $394,000, although continued improvements and the latest engine from Rotax have pushed up its costs. All told, the Wave is an intriguing amphibian loaded with features and boasting a large interior complete with sliding doors.

Scoda Aeronautica’s Super Petrel started its life in France. It was much different before the team at Edra, now Scoda Aeronautica, took over in Brazil. Here’s another seaplane entry from the South American nation that is very big in aviation. The Super Petrel sets itself apart from all others with its biwing construction. You may not think that’s logical in the modern world, but the Super Petrel is a highly efficient aircraft. Plenty of wing area helps it leave the water faster. The shorter the water run, the less strain on an airframe. LSA seaplanes are masterful at this task, jumping off the water in a few seconds. The higher power-to-weight ratio helps, but Scoda wanted to go even further.

Scoda’s XP designation for the Super Petrel means extra performance, but you also get more airplane. The airframe was extended by 10 inches, bringing with it a bounty of benefits, including more luggage area. With Rotax’s 141 hp 915iS engine atop the center of gravity, Super Petrel leaps out of the water with great energy.

Niche Buys

The Airplane Factory’s Sling HW, or High Wing, is an all-new design clearly aimed at FAA’s coming MOSAIC regulation. A quick glance at the specifications below illustrates that Sling HW is well outside the current regulation for light sport aircraft. That’s OK for now. It can start with a kit or import a few aircraft in the experimental/exhibition category.

• READ MORE: We Break Down the State of MOSAIC By the Numbers

Numbers are bigger than for a present-day LSA, and that’s great if you seek extra capability. Be prepared to pay for it. Most MOSAIC-targeted LSA unveiled to date are often well into the $200,000s. Several exceed $300,000. Still, that’s much less than a comparable legacy GA aircraft, and Sling HW is big, comfortable, and well equipped. A sleek composite exterior helps it outperform comparable models.

These MOSAIC light sport aircraft (MLSA) are going to greatly expand the LSA range, and Sling producer TAF has long been an innovator.

It is also supremely confident in its designs and loves to demonstrate that by literally flying a new design all the way around the world. In fact, it has done so several times.

Kit-Built

Building your own aircraft involves much more than just saving money—just ask the experts at Van’s Aircraft, who offer both SLSA and kit versions of the RV-12. For most, it is a learning experience, a use of craftsmanship, or simply an absorbing hobby. When you’re done, you will know it in a way few pilots know their aircraft. You can also put in it precisely what you want.

Lockwood Aircraft’s AirCam is no light sport aircraft, but it might qualify as a MLSA. The AirCam has been such a hit that 200 have been built as kits. It looks somewhat unorthodox with its twin aft-mounted Rotax engines on a half-open-cockpit design, but you need to know why it looks this way.

The AirCam was custom designed and built for one job—taking National Geographic-grade cover story photos of Namibian jungles and African wildlife. The country’s terrain is utterly unforgiving. Clearings are few and small. The photographer, seated up front for photo missions, needs huge visibility and no obstructions. Plus, they wish to fly at the speed of nature, that is, slowly. The AirCam accomplishes all this like it was designed for it—because it was.

This story first appeared in the September 2023/Issue 941 of FLYING’s print edition.

The post Here’s a Look at Some Affordable Aviation Favorites appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

ICON says the certification will allow it to enter new markets, launching a “new phase of growth” for the company. Among other advantages, the new approval gives ICON a much clearer certification path in countries that don’t recognize the U.S. light sport category or those where the company would otherwise be required to go through a waiver process similar to the one it completed with the FAA to receive a weight exemption for the heavier-than-standard A5.

• READ MORE: Icon A5 Light-Sport Aircraft Review

The primary category certification also clears the way for the company to “take advantage of reciprocal agreements between the FAA and aviation governing bodies outside of the U.S.” to certify the A5 in regions and countries such as Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America.

“Receiving FAA type certification for the ICON A5 in the primary category is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire ICON team,” said company CEO Jerry Meyer. “It allows us to expand our market potential around the world, and it underscores the commitment of ICON Aircraft to innovation and excellence in design…We are grateful for the collaborative partnership with the FAA throughout this process, and we extend our sincere thanks for their commitment to safety and efficiency.”

About the A5

The two-seat ICON A5 Certified Edition offers a top speed of 95 knots, 427 nm range with a 45-minute reserve, and useful load of 430 pounds. The aircraft is powered by the fuel-injected Rotax 912iS engine and comes equipped with the Garmin aera 796. It also features a folding-wing design and whole-airframe parachute system.

ICON noted that the certified edition of the A5 has the same specifications and performance as the S-LSA version but will require a private pilot certificate and seaplane rating to operate in the U.S. The A5 S-LSA will continue to require a sport pilot certificate with a seaplane endorsement. Starting price for the certified version is $439,000 while the S-LSA model starts at $394,000.

According to the company, the primary difference between the two versions is that the “Type-certified A5 is produced under a production type certification under a higher level of scrutiny and documentation by the FAA.”

ICON began delivering the A5 to customers in 2017. The company reports that it has now shipped more than 210 A5s to clients across 13 countries. The model is manufactured at ICON’s facility in Tijuana, Mexico.

If you’re looking for an A5 of your own, consider entering The Ultimate FLYING Giveaway.

The post ICON A5 Receives FAA Primary Category Type Certification appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The new program, also called the “Show Above the Show,” will include displays on the ground and flight demonstrations over the Detroit River from several producers of personal flying machines including eVTOLs, a hoverbike, and a jet suit. 

Such a large aviation presence at this long-standing annual car show illustrates a coming together of aeronautical and automotive technologies that has recently redefined people’s expectations of what a “flying car” can be. It also reflects increased interest in eVTOL and other aviation developments among car makers. Recently a number of car companies including Honda, Hyundai,  Renault and Stellantis, formerly FiatChrysler, have announced air mobility projects and partnerships.

“This exciting addition to the show is a natural extension of the evolving transportation ecosystem, especially as people continue to look for creative ways to expand personal mobility,” Detroit Auto Show chairman Joe Lunghamer said in a statement. “We’ll give auto show audiences a taste of the future today with a look at the whole spectrum of mobility—from the thrill of human propulsion to amphibious vehicles you can keep in your backyard to EVs leading the industry’s transformation,” he added.

Companies showing their wares include ICON Aircraft, which will demonstrate its A5 amphibious light sport seaplane; AIR, from Tel Aviv, Israel, which is developing the AIR ONE two-seat eVTOL, and Airspace Experience Technologies, based in Detroit, which will display its Sigma-6 eVTOL, designed to be “a clean, fast, and affordable transportation alternative.” 

Aerwins Technologies of Wilmington, Delaware, and A.L.I. Technologies of Tokyo will demonstrate their XTURISMO, a hoverbike “inspired by the speeder bikes in ‘Star Wars.’” Gravity Industries from the U.K. will show its jet suit, which is said to put out 1,000 horsepower, and Omni Hoverboards of Montreal, Canada, will demonstrate its eVTOL hoverboard.

Flight demonstrations of the XTURISMO, Gravity Jet Suit, ICON A5, and Omni Hoverboard begin on media day, September 14, and run through September 18. Air Mobility displays and experiences featuring AIR ONE, ASX’s Sigma-6, and the ICON A5 will take place inside Huntington Place during the run of the show, from September 14 to 25. 

Show organizers said they will release a full schedule of flight demonstrations and display dates and times soon.

The post ICON A5 Among Aircraft To Appear at Detroit Auto Show appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

• READ MORE: How To Get to the Sequatchie Valley by Airplane

Modern: ICON A5

In the air, the ICON A5 shows off a carbon-fiber design with truly docile low-speed handling characteristics, and serious stall and spin resistance. The A5 cruises at 85 knots indicated airspeed—and you can fly with the windows removed at 75 kias. It’s powered by a fuel-injected, 100 hp Rotax 912.

When it’s time to land, the 1,510-pound light sport aircraft gives the pilot two options: pavement or water. On dry land, the A5 uses a tricycle-gear configuration with a castering nosewheel. For a water landing, the A5’s gear tucks up into the hull—there are no struts or sponsons to mar its clean lines.

In front of the pilot and passenger lies the brains of the A5, with a couple of options. The A5 transitioned from a Garmin aera 796 multifunction display and GPS to a Garmin 3X Touch in 2021. The 3X Touch gives owners the chance to add a two-axis autopilot. It also comes standard with ICON’s ballistic airframe parachute system (IPS) and an angle-of-attack indicator. The A5 makes an ideal modern amphib platform.

Classic: Lake LA-250 Renegade

Because Lake Aircraft (under various owners) has delivered more than 1,300 aircraft over its 70-year history, pilots conjure up its silhouette when they think of the word “seaplane.” With a center-mounted Lycoming IO-540 engine (in 250 hp or a turbocharged 270 hp version) and twin sponsons, the Renegade, introduced in 1982, follows in the footsteps of the 1950s-era Buccaneer.

• READ MORE: The Sequatchie Valley Offers a Wonderland for Flying Adventures

The Renegade weighs 3,050 pounds at max gross, with a useful load of more than 1,000 pounds, depending on the engine. With seats for up to six people, you can take more friends or family along on the adventure with you. It’s a capable amphib all around, with the ability to fly IFR and a range of up to 1,036 nm, running at around 132 kias.

The company’s assets are up for sale, including the type certificate, but the classic amphib—available on the used market—offers flexibility for pilots who want to go further and faster before they splash down.

Utility: Cessna 180 Series on Floats

If your adventure in the Sequatchie Valley involves outdoor pursuits, such as rock climbing, camping, or fishing, you might consider the workhorse of the outback: the Cessna 180 series of airframes on floats.

Fitted with Wipaire’s Wipline Model 3000 floats, the Cessna 180 series can haul quite a bit of people and gear, and it retains the easy in-flight handling characteristics of those Cessna models, the 180, 182, and 185, depending on which model you find in this varying marketplace.

You can also adapt your airframe to floats, though not all models can make the transition. In the process, you may be able to upgrade with a Kenmore supplemental type certificate (STC) offering a gross weight increase to 3,190 pounds, augmenting useful load by about 240 pounds.

This article was first published in the 2022 Southeast Adventure Guide edition of FLYING Magazine.

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Known as Tennessee’s Great Valley, the nearly straight 150-mile-long, 3- to 6-mile-wide geological divide—bordered by the Cumberland Plateau to the west and Walden Ridge to the east—is an outdoor playground for the entire family. The valley and its parallel mountain ridges offer some of the country’s best rock climbing, hiking, hang-gliding, fishing, golfing, off-roading, and other recreational activities.

The Lay of the Land

The Sequatchie Valley region includes the agricultural-rich bottom lands of the valley—referred to as an anticline because of its compression-related geological origins—and up to 1,500-foot-high forested plateau escarpments that form its east and west borders. Famous for its sandstone boulders and cliffs, the rock formations along the valley’s steep slopes appeal to traditional, sport, and boulder climbers. There are 17 public climbing areas in the region including the renowned Tennessee Wall and Stone Fort crags.

• READ MORE: How To Get to the Sequatchie Valley by Airplane

Thanks to the preservation efforts of the Southeastern Climbers Coalition (SCC), the Access Fund, a nonprofit climbing advocacy organization, and others, a new public climbing area, Woodcock Cove, is now open. Located on the western rim of the Sequatchie Valley, west of Dunlap, the 64-acre property managed by the SCC includes a mile-long sandstone cliffline that ranges from heights of 30 to 90 feet, and a 75-foot freestanding sandstone tower. Those scaling these rock faces take in breathtaking views of the river and valley.

A Paddler’s Delight

The Sequatchie River originates just north of Pikeville at the “Head of the Sequatchie” spring and travels for 116 miles south before reaching the Tennessee River near the Alabama state line. A natural blueway, the river offers slow and easy paddling that’s perfect for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. With public access sites from Pikeville at Old Mill Road to Whitwell in the south, paddlers can travel from 3 to 16 miles on already mapped blueway routes.

The only reported hazards on these routes are an occasional log jam, further north where the river is narrow, and a low-head dam at Ketner’s Mill near Whitwell. Paddlers should give a wide berth to this dam, which has been known to cause drownings. When paddling downstream, exit the river upon spotting the mill and portage your watercraft well past the dam’s undertow and deadly backwash before putting back in.

Outdoor Diversions

Rock climbing and paddling are just the tip of the spear when it comes to recreational opportunities. The area is also known for its miles of hiking and cycling trails, hang-gliding, and other outdoor sports.

Fall Creek Falls, for example, is a popular hiking, camping, natural swimming, and tubing destination, and it has one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern U.S. A 40-minute drive from the valley’s central point at Dunlap, the state park also offers a championship golf course and an 85-room lodge with a restaurant and conference and meeting spaces that overlook Fall Creek Falls Lake. With three mountain bike trails and more than 56 miles of hiking, the park is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Not to be outdone, nearby South Cumberland State Park is Tennessee’s largest state park. It comprises 30,845 acres and has 90 miles of hiking trails and some of the best backcountry camping in the region.

If golf is your game, travel to the head of the valley to Crossville—known as the Golf Capital of Tennessee—which offers nine expertly designed golf courses with a range of handicap skill levels, all within a 20-mile radius.

• READ MORE: Choose the Right Airplane for Your Sequatchie Sojourn

The best view of the valley is arguably from above. Several hang-gliding and paragliding launch locations dot the valley’s ridgelines. Flying Camp Paragliding has paragliding instruction and solo certification, and tandem flights for novices; while Tennessee Tree Toppers (TTT), a nonprofit and chapter member of the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association, caters to association members. Visiting pilots may purchase a 30-day TTT membership option.

Those who want a more exciting experience—and a more fleeting view of the valley—can try skydiving. The Chattanooga Skydiving Company, located at Marion County Airport-Brown Field (KAPT), offers tandem jumps, education programs, and fun jumps for certificated skydivers over the Sequatchie Valley.

Care to improve your marksmanship? The Dead Zero Shooting Range in nearby Spencer offers covered outdoor sporting clay lanes, skeet/trap areas for shotguns, archery (3D archery) lanes, and rifle/pistol bays.

If horseback riding is your thing, the Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch in scenic Dunlap is sure to please. The ranch offers two- to seven-day custom vacations, where each guest is assigned a horse. Vacation stays include overnight accommodations, farm-to-table meals, daily trail riding, Bible study, and instruction in the cowhand way of life. Four- to six-hour ranch and ride day programs are also available.

Off-roading is another recreational option. Located at the south end of the valley, near South Pittsburg, the Adventure Off Road Park has more than 120 off-road trails, and tent and RV camping. The newest off highway vehicle (OHV) trails to open in the region are located in Grundy County on the Cumberland Plateau, a roughly 45-minute drive from Dunlap. Coalmont OHV Park, which was set to open in June 2022, will offer 1,346 acres of trails and be the first city-owned OHV park in the state.

History

In addition to recreation, the Sequatchie Valley has a rich history to explore, from its Native American past—the valley was actually named for a Cherokee Chief, Sequachee—to its coal-mining days. In its heyday, the Chattanooga Iron and Coal Corporation owned and mined 16,000 acres of coal land near Dunlap, employing 350 people. The Coke Ovens Museum near Dunlap, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserves the remnants of 268 beehive coke stone ovens. In the early 1900s, the ovens converted mountain coal into industrial coke, which was used to smelt iron ore. The museum houses the state’s largest collection of regional historic coal mining photographs, and its wooded grounds witnessed the forced westward migration of Native Americans in the 1800s, known as the Trail of Tears. The area is also famous for its moonshine production during the Prohibition era (1920-1933). An historic still is on display at the museum.

Local Events & Festivals

This article was first published in the 2022 Southeast Adventure Guide of FLYING Magazine.

The post The Sequatchie Valley Offers a Wonderland for Flying Adventures appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Pilots interested in tacking on a seaplane rating or simply having a go at the controls of the striking Icon A5 light sport seaplane with minimal buy-in have a new option in central Florida, the aircraft company announced.

Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base in Winter Haven, Florida, has partnered with Icon Aircraft, and is now offering access to the Icon A5 for dual instruction flight training, introductory flights and single-engine seaplane (SES) ratings.

Icon’s partnership with Jack Brown’’s—renowned for nearly 60 years of seaplane training—is aimed at increasing pilot accessibility to the A5.

“As Icon’s fleet of A5s continues to grow, we’re seeing additional exposure amongst pilots throughout the region who may not yet be ready to commit to becoming an Icon A5 owner,” Icon said in announcing the partnership. “Adding Jack Brown’s as an Icon training partner allows for anyone with a passion for seaplane flying to enjoy the A5 without committing to ownership.”

There are a few ways to experience the A5 at Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base, according to Icon:

• Discovery Flights: Experience the A5 on a one-hour introduction flight
• Transition Training: Transition course for pilots with a single-engine land rating or experience
• Dual Instruction: Build seaplane time and continue to hone your step taxi, glassy water, and other water flying skills in the Icon A5
• Earn your single-engine seaplane (SES) rating

A Watercraft With Wings

As far as light sport aircraft go, the A5 is “one of the sexiest light airplanes to have hit the market in ages,” FLYING editor-at-large Pia Bergqvist proclaimed after taking a turn at the controls. The easy-to-fly aircraft is aimed at the power sports and outdoor recreation market.

“The airplane is not meant for transportation,” Bergqvist wrote. “It was not built with speed, range, or payload in mind. It is strictly designed to be the ultimate flying toy—a personal water­craft with wings.”

The monohull A5 is spin resistant, powered by an electronically fuel-injected Rotax 912 engine, and folding wings that take about two minutes to unfold into place, according to the aircraft manufacturer. Its avionics package includes Garmin G3X Touch multifunction displays with 3D terrain views and moving maps with sectional charts, standby instruments, and flight planning. ADS-B (automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast) Out is standard, with an available ADS-B In option as well via the Garmin GDL 50.

The two-seat light sport aircraft is also outfitted for safety. The A5′s angle of attack (AOA) safety system offers pilots an intuitive display gauge of the orientation of the wing to the relative wind to simplify approach for runways and water landings. It comes with the Icon parachute system (IPS). Similar parachute systems have saved more than 300 lives, according to Icon.

A5 Partnership Network

Jack Brown’s is one of a network of operations offering A5 flight training. Others include:

• Low Altitude Adventures, New Bedford, Massachusetts
• Atlas Aviation (land only), Tampa, Florida
• Boundless Aviation, Greenville, South Carolina

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