Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Aerotrek A240 Really Stands Out at Midwest LSA Expo

By Carmelo Turdo
The golden yellow Aeropro Aerotrek A240 really stood out at the recent Midwest LSA Expo - it was very hard to miss even at the end of the ramp!  The Slovakian factory-made LSA costs less than $80,000 nicely equipped and includes the novel folding wing feature for the custom U.S.-made trailer (for an additional $10,000 cost) or economical hangar storage.  Other features include a choice of conventional or tricycle landing gear, well-equipped and upgradable instrument panel, a variety of color choices and nearly 600lb payload.  Performance with the 100hp Rotax engine is sparkling, with climb rates from 800-1200fpm and speeds of 110 knots at 4.5gph fuel burn.  For more information on the Aerotrek models, visit http://www.aerotrek.aero/


Below is a flight review video of the conventional A220, and some views of the Aerotrek A240 on display at the LSA Expo.









Monday, September 10, 2012

Midwest LSA Expo Features Wide Variety of Light Sport Aircraft Options

By Carmelo Turdo
The 4th Annual Plane & Pilot Midwest LSA Expo, held at Mount Vernon Outland Airport this past weekend, provided a great variety of Light Sport aircraft options for novice and veteran aviators and enthusiasts alike.  Light Sport has opened up many opportunities for (more) affordable aircraft ownership and pilot eligibility without the stringent medical standards required of other aircraft categories.  It is gratifying to see dedicated LSA manufacturers taking the lead in offering their products head-to-head in one marketplace.  Here is a survey of the LSA Expo, and future posts will feature each major aircraft manufacturer.  Special thanks to Mount Vernon Outland Airport Manager Chris Collins for his hospitality and assistance in covering this year's Expo.

















Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Sullivan Missouri Fly-In a Great Community Event

By Leo Cachet
This year's Sullivan Regional Airport Fly-In was a success by any measure.  A variety of aircraft were on hand, including homebuilts, Ercoupes, Bonanzas, Cessnas, helicopters and even a Stearman.  Community law enforcement, emergency responders and military recruiters also contributed to making the event enjoyable and educational.  According to the Sullivan Journal, at least 81 Young Eagles were flown by the local EAA chapter, generating an interest in aviation for the next generation.  For a video of the Young Eagle Flights, please visit http://vimeo.com/48313429.  







Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Lockheed PV-2 Harpoon "Attu Warrior" Makes Stop in St. Louis

By Carmelo Turdo
Lockheed PV-2 Harpoon, Attu Warrior, recently made a fuel stop at St. Louis Downtown Airport. After making an appearance at Oshkosh last month, the aircraft has attended other fly-ins and was heading home to Utah. The current manifestation of the aircraft took flight May 23, 2009, after a three-year restoration by Dave Hansen.  The name of the aircraft helps to explain the historic role that Harpoons played in World War II - service in the Aleutian Islands.  Some of these islands, including Attu, were occupied by Japanese forces in 1942 to defend against counter-offensives by the U.S. and Russia.  Attu and others were retaken by U.S. forces in 1943, and Harpoons were stationed there at Casco Field through the war years.  For more information about the aircraft, visit http://warbirdwarriors.org/.