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, showcasing a remarkable diversity of models from high-performance backcountry planes and versatile amphibians to efficient sport cruisers, fulfilling its promise of accessible aviation through eased certification standards.
  • Manufacturers within the LSA segment ingeniously navigate performance restrictions, often integrating modern features such as glass cockpits, advanced engines (like fuel-injected Rotaxes), and optional ballistic recovery parachutes.
  • Many LSAs are designed for an engaging flying experience, frequently requiring refined "stick-and-rudder" skills due to characteristics like light wing loading, especially when managing challenging conditions during takeoff and landing.
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FlightDesign CTLSi
FlightDesign CTLSi

FlightDesign CTLSi

The latest and greatest of the Flight Design high-wing, side-by-side, two-seat composite runabouts is the CTLSi, powered by the remarkable new-ish Rotax 912iS. A fuel-injected engine that puts out 100 hp, the 912iS takes the promise of the advanced Rotax 912 and adds fuel injection and electronic ignition management. All of the CTs in the lineup have great visibility (with a clear view downward), good flyability, a modern panel and high build quality. The CTs have sticks instead of yokes, and while the plane lands very slowly, it’s a bit of a speedster whose adjustable-pitch prop needs to be set properly to prevent it from overshooting the 120-knot LSA speed restriction. Like many LSA in this lineup, the CTLSi requires practice and good judgment to land consistently, due to its light wing loading and large wing area. As with other types, training for pilots coming from conventional Part 23 airplanes is a must. 

Niche: High-wing sport

Base Price: $173,910

Competitors: Remos GX-iS, Zenith CH-701, Vans RV-12

FlightDesign CTLSi Specifications

Learn more at FlightDesign.

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