Light Sport Aircraft

In April 2010, we are taking delivery of a Light Sport Aircraft. We will be the only flight school in the area offering an aircraft for Sport Pilot training.

For the past few years we have been excited about the possibility of the Sport Pilot rating, but we could not find the right aircraft. There are many very attractive entries into the market, but most are either European (with supply issues), or over-priced for the training market. We invested a lot of time researching each model on manufacturer's websites and owner forums to get the information that we needed to make an informed decision.

Our considerations for selecting an LSA included quality craftsmanship, advanced avionics in the panel, and the manufacturer had to have a good reputation for safety and responsiveness to our needs for parts and support. Being built in the USA was also important to us. At the same time, we wanted an LSA that could also be used for training for the private pilot certificate.

Oh, and a taildragger. We thought that would be a nice addition to the fleet.

We found the solution in our own backyard. Kitfox Aircraft in Homedale Idaho is one of the best known kit manufacturers (since 1984), and has now produced a high-quality LSA. It is certificated in the LSA category and completely built by the factory. The Kitfox is a 2 seat side-by-side aircraft that has truly amazing handling characteristics and is just as comfortable in the back country bush flying as it is flying cross-country into some of the busiest airspace. After visiting the factory, we quickly realized that we had found the perfect solution in our quest for an LSA.

We are currently creating a two-week accelerated Sport Pilot training program. We anticipate the cost will be below $4000 for the course. Additional hours if needed can be purchased at a reduced rate to complete the program. Ability to complete the program within two-weeks and 20 flight hours depends on the student's preparedness and abilities. Our other training programs have proven to us that it is possible to complete certification in the minimum hours in an accelerated training program.

Currently, our plan is to set the rate at $99/hr for block time (must purchase minimum of 10 hours), or an hourly rate of $115/hour. Instruction is $50/hour, and is charged for the time the instructor spends with the customer, not just flight time.

Interior features Glass cockpit including 10" Dynon SV D1000 Garmin transponder Garmin com radio Convertible between taildragger and nosewheel Very comfortable 43" wide cabin with: Suede seats Adjustable rudder pedals Four-point lap and shoulder harnesses
	Additional features: Navigation lights and landing lights for night flight Useful load of about 552 lbs Large baggage capacity of 150 lbs Two fully acrylic gull-wing doors 3 bladed prop adjustable on ground for cruise or climb 5.1 Hours endurance with VFR reserves 320' takeoff roll, 330' landing roll 1150 fpm rate of climb 123 mph cruise
What can you use this aircraft for? Sport pilot certificate Private pilot certificate TIme builder towards advanced ratings Conventional gear (tail dragger) endorsement Glass cockpit training Mountain flying More fun than you ever imagined