EAA Sport Aviation - April 2009

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What’s New In Recreational Aviation
ICON A5 Completes Phase I Flight Tests

Phase I flight testing for the ICON A5 light-sport aircraft is complete. A series of 27 flights covered the full performance envelope of the prototype. “This test phase included assessing a wide range of speed, weight, center of gravity, altitude, and sea states. There are areas still to be optimized, as always, but overall the A5 has performed as designed,” said Matthew Gionta, chief technical officer and vice president of engineering.

The prototype was flown from minimum weight to gross weight in various sea states from glassy water to 9-inch waves. It was tested across all flap settings and up to a density altitude of 5,000 feet. All flights originated and terminated on water to verify the hydrodynamic performance and handling qualities. Test pilot Jon Karkow commented that the A5 “cuts through waves very well and is not prone to ‘porpoising’ like so many

Courtesy of ICON Aircraft

seaplanes are.” With the hull shape verified, the landing gear will now be integrated into the prototype during Phase II testing, which will continue throughout 2009. Learn more at www.IconAircraft.com.

GAMA, NBAA Launch “No
Plane No Gain” Campaign

Looking to reinforce the value of business aviation to American workers, policymakers, companies, and communities across the United States, the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) unveiled a comprehensive joint advocacy campaign: “No Plane No Gain.” The campaign has a multi-faceted approach, including paid advertising through various channels, a No Plane No Gain website, and webinars to educate audiences about the need for business aviation.

Learn more at www.NoPlaneNoGain.org.

U.S. Powered Paraglider
Team at World Air Games

The Federation Aeronautique Internationale, the world governing body for air sports and aeronautical world records since 1905, has invited five American powered paraglider pilots to represent the United States in the World Air Games this summer in Torino, Italy. Pilots were selected by virtue of their performance in eight different powered paraglider qualifying events held worldwide in 2008. Only the top 22 pilots and provisional alternates receive the coveted invitations; they will represent 11 different countries. Competitions are slated to begin on June 6.

Visit www.USPPA.org for more information.

gear& gadgets

EAA Sport Aviation provides this information about products as a service to its members. Unless otherwise noted, the products have not been used, reviewed, or recommended by Sport Aviation staff or the EAA.

Alternative Engines Volume 3

CONTACT! Magazine founder Mick Myal has put together another fact-filled book that provides information on alternative powerplants for aircraft. With hundreds of photos and drawings, and practical tips for constructing everything from re-drives to cooling systems, Alternative Engines provides information on viable alternatives to the classic aviation engine. The 300-page book is for builders considering alternative power, upgrading systems (fuel, cooling, ignition), or