Plane & Pilot 2017 Buyer’s Guide: Light Sport Aircraft

From amphibians to trainers, there's an LSA for everyone.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) category has significantly expanded, offering an impressive variety of models from amphibians to backcountry planes due to eased certification standards.
  • LSA designs often push the category's performance limits, featuring capabilities like high climb rates, short-field takeoffs/landings, and cruising speeds up to the 120-knot maximum.
  • Many modern LSA models integrate advanced avionics, such as glass cockpits and autopilots, and offer important safety features like whole-plane recovery parachutes.
  • Despite technological advancements, several LSA types still require pilots to possess strong "stick-and-rudder skills" and undergo specific training for consistent and safe handling, especially in challenging conditions.
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Tecnam P2002 Sierra Mk2
Tecnam P2002 Sierra Mk2

Tecnam P2002 Sierra Mk2

The P2002 Sierra Mk2 is the third Tecnam aircraft to be featured in this buyer’s guide, and it’s the third different category of airplane, testimony to the versatility of the design team in Capua, Italy, where the company is headquartered. And the Sierra Mk2 is a clear demonstration of the company’s commitment to design. The low-wing, all-metal, two-seat side-by-side beauty has a relatively short and thin-chord wing that nevertheless allows it to stall at sub-40-knot speeds, thanks to the long-span slotted flaps. The plane is made for going to places, too. With a cruise speed of 120 knots (again, the max allowed in the LSA category), the Sierra Mk2 can get down the road, and with a range of 600 nm, it has legs, too. Available with either Garmin or Dynon avionics, buyers can get a capable panel and a BRS chute as an option, as well.

Niche: Low-wing sport

Base Price: $150,000

Competitors: Sport Cruiser, Bristell NG5 LSA

Tecnam P2002 Sierra Mk2 Specifications

Learn more at Tecnam.

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