UltraFlight Radio - Ultralight Airplane Archives

Ultralight Airplanes, Microlights, and Light Sport Aircraft

Learn about fixed wing ultralights as well as light sport aircraft and microlights from UltraFlight Radio. Hear from leaders in the industry as they talk about ultralight airplane products, safety, and more.

Bob Essell, Bob Essell Airshows
Bob Essell started flying general aviation airplanes many years ago, but then was bitten by the ultralight bug. Bob has done a lot of things with what we now call light sport aircraft, but one of the more interesting things is his father-daughter wingwalking act. Bob talks about the evolution of what is now a very unique act that has been seen around the world. Bob Essell Airshows (10/3/06)

Mike Loehle, Loehle Aircraft
Mike Loehle builds some great experimental single place aircraft. Of course with a single place aircraft, it is hard to get "checked out" with a flight instructor. Mike talks about the advice he gives to people who are transitioning to a new single place plane. Loehle Aircraft (9/12/06)

Michele Hayden, B&B Sport Aviation
Michele Hayden joins us to talk about the upcoming fly-in being hosted by B&B Sport Aviation in Cambridge Maryland. B&B Sport Aviation (9/12/06)

Jim Robinson, Erie Airpark
The Challenger Fly-In is a week earlier this year, and that is not all that's different this time around. Challenger is going to have its Special Light Sport Aircraft (S-LSA) on display at the gathering. Jim Robinson talks to us about the airplane and the place to be if you are a Challenger owner, dealer, or interested in a great time. Erie Airpark (9/5/06)

Erik Pederson, Phantom Aeronautics
It's been awhile since we visited with Erik Pederson. We get an update on the rotary engine he's been testing for aviation use. We also check into the progress on the S-LSA version of the Phantom. We talk about some of the design features being integrated into the aircraft. Phantom Aeronautics (8/15/06)

Chuck Slusarczyk, CGS Aviation
Chuck Slusarczyk spent last week hosting a representative from the South African Civil Aviation Authority. Chuck tells us about the process for having an airplane design being accepted by the South African CAA. CGS Aviation (8/1/06)

Mike Loehle, Loehle Aircraft
Mike Loehle has been keeping busy this summer, too. We talk with him about some of the projects going on in both the painting and aircraft replica worlds. We also try to coax a little more time out of him for the Oshkosh sale that was to end this Monday. Loehle Aircraft (8/1/06)

Neal Willford, Cessna Aircraft Company
All summer, people have been waiting to learn more about the "proof of concept" airplane that Cessna has been creating for the Light Sport Aviation market. Well, the unveiling happened yesterday at Oshkosh and today we're going to talk with the lead engineer for the project, Neal Willford. He talks about the plane and what Cessna is trying to achieve with it. Cessna Aircraft Company (7/25/06)

Shawn Okun, Float Planes And Amphibs
Shawn Okun talks about the A-20 Vista and the A-22 Valor aircraft. These are airplanes that FPnA has been working on getting Special Light Sport Aircraft Status for. Of course Shawn gives us the details about both the planes and the certification progress. FPNA (5/2/06)

Erik Pederson, Phantom Aeronautics
Erik Pederson gives us an update on the rotary engine he has flying on a single place Phantom airplane. He also talks about his new two-seat Phantom airplane. Both aircraft will be flying at Sun 'n Fun. Phantom Aeronautics (3/28/06)

Chuck Slusarczyk, CGS Hawk
Like a lot of aircraft manufacturers, Chuck Slusarczyk is getting ready for the temporary migration down to Lakeland in a couple of weeks for the Sun 'n Fun Fly-In. He talks a little about what he is doing to get ready, what he's bringing, and what he'll be leaving there at the Sun 'n Fun Museum. CGS Aviation (3/21/06)

Tony Anderson, Wings of Paradise, Inc
It has been quite awhile since we last visited with Tony Anderson. He has been busy in the Miami area becoming an importer for the FK line of light sport aircraft. We visit with Tony about his operation, the airport he is now based at, and of course the airplanes themselves. FK LightPlanes USA (3/14/06)

Shawn Okun, Float Planes And Amphibs
Last week we learned that Shawn Okun won the United States Ultralight Association Meritorious Service Award. We congratulate Shawn and visit with him about some of the projects he is working on in Sebring. He has Special Light Sport Aircraft trike news, airplane news, and more to share with us. Float Planes & Amphibs (3/7/06)

Mike Loehle, Loehle Aircraft
Mike Loehle has been working on a special paint project for ultralight and light sport aircraft and is ready to make the announcement about some new paint applications. Listen in here on the UltraFlight Radio Show as Mike talks about this project publicly for the first time. This is a product that a lot of people never thought could be developed. Loehle Aircraft Corporation (3/7/06)

Tom Peghiny, Flightstar, Inc.
We catch up with Tom Peghiny from Flightstar. He talks about the first year of offering Light Sport Aircraft, his move to a new facility, developments in the LSA world and more. Flightstar Sportplanes (2/21/06)

Dale Smith, Prestige Aircraft
Dale Smith introduces us to the Rally and Century light sport aircraft. Both are soon to be manufactured by the Prestige Aircraft Company in Jackson, Michigan under license from StormAircraft Srl. Sabaudia, Italy. Even though these aircraft have been designed and tested in Europe, they will be built and serviced in the United States. Dale tells about his plans for production. Prestige Aircraft (2/7/06)

Chuck Slusarczyk, CGS Hawk
We talk with Chuck Slusarczyk who just got back from the Kentucky Ultralight Safety Seminar put on by the BUGs. He talks about his presentation there, which was about preventing structural failure in airframes. CGS Aviation (1/31/06)

Mike Loehle, Loehle Aircraft
Mike Loehle is back from a seminar where he was able to see some of the future of painting and pigments. He talks to us about some of the changes that he sees in the future for aircraft paints. We also chat about some of the interesting about projects he's gotten involved in with Loehle Aero Coatings. Loehle Aircraft Corporation (1/24/06)

Robert Gaither, Higher Class Aviation
We visit with Robert Gaither of Higher Class Aviation. He is now building the Hornet sport airplane. Robert talks about the Hornet, how it is doing and where it is in the LSA process. Robert is also now a dealer for the Tecnam light sport aircraft and he tells us about that line of airplanes. Higher Class Aviation (1/24/06)

Dan Defelici, Sport Aircraft Works
Dan Defelici joins us to talk about a Notice for Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that will permit the Czech Aircraft Works to be issued a special airworthiness certificate in the light-sport category for the Mermaid aircraft. This is significant because the Mermaid aircraft is an amphibious aircraft equipped with landing gear that can be retracted and extended while in flight. This has been a problem with the Light Sport Aircraft rules because of the language pertaining to amphibs. This NPRM has a very short fuse since the comment period ends on January 24, 2006. This is a chance for the sport aviation community to come together to help change the rules for the better. Sport Aircraft Works (1/17/06)

Tim Fiedler, Light Sport Aviation, LLC
Light Sport Aviation, LLC in Beloit, Wisconsin has become the midwest home for the Sportstar. Tim Fiedler joins us to talk about the combination of training programs and support that he is putting together to support the Sportstar. And of course we talk about the airplane itself. Light Sport Aviation, LLC (1/10/06)

Rick Pellicciotti, Belle Aire Aviation
LightSportFlying.com announced that they have signed an agreement with Mountain Air Accelerated Flight Training to provide a leased Aerostar Festival R40S Light Sport Aircraft to Mountain Air for use in their Sport Pilot training program. Mountain Air will operate the aircraft at their Orlando, Florida facility. Rick Pellicciotti joins us to talk about the Aerostar Festival and why it makes a great trainer. Belle Aire Aviation(1/3/06)

Doug Koenigsberg, Sky Ranger Aircraft Company, Inc.
Doug Koenigsberg is part of the new team importing the Sky Ranger airplane. Doug joins us to talk about "mission profiling". That is, how to choose the aircraft that will be appropriate for doing the kind of flying you want to do. Sky Ranger Aircraft Company, Inc. (12/13/05)

Randy Schlitter, RANS Aircraft
Randy Schlitter joins us to talk about obtaining a Special Light Sport Aircraft airworthiness certificate for the S-7S Courier. This means that an American built aircraft is now available as an S-LSA. A "Special" LSA means the airplane is fully factory built and can be used for instructional or rental as well as normal use. Randy talks about what was involved in the process and about the plane itself. RANS Aircraft (12/6/05)

Ron Lowery, Photographer/Pilot
Traveling low and slow, professional photographer/pilot Ron Lowery and writer/pilot Mary Walker flew above the same great rivers that Lewis and Clark explored to capture incredible vistas from the air and celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the Corps of Discovery’s odyssey across the continent. The result is a photography and adventure book and a DVD, Chasing Lewis and Clark Across America: A 21st Century Aviation Adventure. We visit with Ron about the adventure. Chasing Lewis & Clark (12/6/05)

Chuck Slusarczyk, CGS Hawk
This spring Chuck Slusarczyk will be donating the very first Hawk ever made to the Sun 'n Fun museum. We talk about the first flight made at Sun 'n Fun by the Hawk Classic and how the final ceremony will look and who will be flying it last. (Hint, it's the original Hawk test pilot.) www.cgsaviation.com/ (11/22/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
Paul Hamilton just introduced two new Sport Pilot DVDs. They both focus on flying fixed wing Light Sport Aircraft. We talk about what's in, "Preflight a Fixed Wing Light-Sport Aircraft for Sport Pilots" & "Be a Sport Pilot: Learn to Fly a Fixed Wing Light-Sport Aircraft". Adventure Productions (11/22/05)

Wesley Friesen, Wrong Brothers Aviation
Wesley Friesen has been around ultralight aviation for a lot of years. We talk about that and about his new DVD. The DVD is a fun approach to flying that shows students during their training flights and the interviews with them afterward. Wrong Brothers Aviation (11/15/05)

Charlie Becker, Experimental Aircraft Association
Skystar Aircraft, manufacturer of the Kitfox kit aircraft, declared bankruptcy last month. That left some aircraft builders with unfulfilled, fully paid Rotax engine orders who discovered that they would be getting neither their engines nor their money back. EAA is helping coordinate an effort to take a little bit of the sting out of the situation. They are working to provide a preferred pricing discount program for Kitfox builders who paid for but did not receive their engines. Charlie Becker joins us to talk about what may be a one-time deal to get this very favorable pricing on Rotax engines for those that were hurt by the bankruptcy. Experimental Aircraft Association, Sport Plane LLC, http://kitfox.lazair.com/ (11/15/05)

Shawn Okun, Float Planes and Amphibs
The AirCam and Drifter aircraft are produced by the Leza AirCam Corp. Shawn Okun has been in negotiations with Antonio Leza to purchase Leza AirCam. Shawn talks to us about the agreement and what fans of the Drifter and AirCam can expect in the near future. Float Planes And Amphibs, Leza AirCam Corp (11/8/05)

Dave Gardner, Ultralight Instructor
Inspired by the thought of a Dayton, Ohio to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina cross country planned a couple of years ago by Richard Jennings and friends, Dave Gardner decides to join them. Problem is -even though he is a native of Dayton, Ohio- he lives and works in Southern California. Rising to the challenge, he buys and builds a RANS S12-XK kit and flies to Dayton to join the group there. Dave tells us about it. (11/1/05)

Bret Kivell, Golden Circle Aircraft
Bret Kivell bought Golden Circle Aircraft, manufacturer of the T-Bird, this summer. Since then he has been involved in moving operations and getting settled in his new role as an aircraft producer. We visit with him to see how things are going. Golden Circle Air (11/1/05)

John McBean, Sport Plane LLC
As many Kitfox fans know by now, Skystar Aircraft (Builder of the Kitfox) has filed for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. Unfortunately with well over a million dollars in debt, it looks like a lot of people will be hurt by the situation. There is some hope for support for those that are current owners of Kitfoxes, though. John McBean is a former demo pilot, sales, and technical support representative for Skystar Aircraft. He has some insight to the company's situation and (more importantly) can offer support for current airplane owners. Sport Plane LLC (10/25/05)

Shawn Okun, Float Planes and Amphibs
Shawn Okun is based in Sebring, Florida and is getting ready for the US Sport Aviation Expo. Shawn gives us a preview of what to expect at this year's premier event for Sport Pilot and Light Sport Aviation products. U.S. Sport Aviation Expo 2005 Float Planes And Amphibs (10/4/05)

Scott Wick, Jim Kaiser Wicks Aircraft Supply
Wick's aircraft will be showcasing their planes at the Greenville AirStravaganza in Greenville, Illinois. Scott Wick talks about what they will be flying and how to be a part of a growing fly-in only 45 minutes from St. Louis. Wicks Aircraft Supply AirStravaganza.com (9/27/05)

Brian & Carol Carpenter, Rainbow Aviation
Since we last visited with the Carpenters, they have accomplished even more for the sport. They have a new book out, their Sport Pilot Airplane book. They've conducted their 16 hour condition inspection course for E-LSA airplane owners. They are also getting ready to do a 16 hour course for trike owners. Brian and Carol fill us in on what has been a busy schedule. Rainbow Aviation (9/13/05)

Jim Robinson, Erie Airpark
The Challenger Fly-In has now become an annual event. Jim Robinson talks to us about the third annual gathering of Challengers at the Erie Airpark this fall. Erie Airpark (9/6/05)

Scott Severen, IndUS Aviation, Inc.
Scott Severen reports on what IndUS Aviation has accomplished since the first implementation of the Sport Pilot rule. IndUS builds a Light Sport Aircraft that flies much like the aircraft that many people learned to fly in, but costs less due to the reduced paperwork that manufacturers have to go through for LSA. IndUS Aviation (8/23/05)

Tom Peghiny, Flightstar, Inc.
Tom Peghiny now offers the CT, which is a great example of one of the sleek new imports from Europe. This airplane offers a sporty new look to aviation that comes from being constructed from composites. Tom talks about how the market has taken to the airplane. www.fly-flightstar.com (8/23/05)

Todd Ellefson, Quicksilver Aircraft
Quicksilver Aircraft are what many people first think of when they think of ultralights. But Quicksilver builds airplanes that fit comfortably in the Light Sport Aircraft rules. Todd Ellefson and Dan talk about what the Sport Pilot rule has done for that segment of the industry. Quicksilver Aircraft (8/23/05)

Larry Mauro, EAA Ultralight Hall of Fame Inductee
We visit with Larry Mauro, the newest inductee into the EAA Ultralight Hall of Fame. Larry built the Icarus hang glider that John Moody powered for the first ultralight powered flight. We talk with Larry about the early history of ultralights. Unfortunately the signal starts getting bad during this segment and we end it with a promise to come back in the future. Greg Gremminger was standing by so we began our conversation with him. (Part 2) (8/9/05)

Erik Pederson, Phantom Aeronautics
Erik Pederson is helping with the organization of the Big Top Skies Fly-in at the Three Rivers Airport. Erik talks about the fun we can expect at the event and he may give us an update on the lightweight rotary engine project he's working on. www.flymichiganskies.com Phantom Aeronautics (8/9/05)

J.D. Stewart, UltraFun AirSports and Guy Truex, Titan Aircraft
J.D. Stewart and Guy Truex join us to talk about the design and building of J.D.'s Titan SS. If you are a tall guy, this story will warm your heart. Titan worked with J.D. to build a plane that would accomodate him well. They talk about the design process and how you can see it soon at AirVenture 2005. UltraFun AirSports, LLC, Titan Aircraft (7/19/05)

Bob Ellefson, Aircraft Supermarket Inc./Golden Circle Air
Bob Ellefson tells us about the sale of Golden Circle Air to another Iowa company in Independence. Aircraft Super Market will stay at De Soto Iowa and expand into more of the Sport aircraft. Bob talks about the sale and what he plans for the future. Aircraft Supermarket Inc. (7/19/05)

Erik Pederson, Phantom Aeronautics
There is a lot going on at Phantom Aeronautics. As Erik Pederson and company get ready for Oshkosh, Erik takes a break to tell us about the rotary engine and the testing on the two-seat Phantom. Phantom Aeronautics (7/12/05)

Mike Loehle, Loehle Aircraft
Mike Loehle is also getting ready for the annual trip to Oshkosh. He's bringing lots of great things that should excite home builders. He offering not only his line of Aero coatings, but also the equipment to apply it. He is also working night and day to finish up the replica Spitfire that will hopefully make its debut at AirVenture. Loehle Aircraft Corporation (7/12/05)

John Ballantyne, Trike Instructor and Designated Sport Pilot Examiner
The National Transportation Safety Board has sent an investigator to the scene of last week's crash in Jackson Hole, Wyoming that resulted in the death of John Walton. The investigator, Aaron Sauer of the NTSB's regional office in Denver, has performed an initial examination of the wreckage and had discussions with National Park Service officials and local FAA inspectors. The accident vehicle has been identified as a CGS Hawk Arrow, an experimental, kit-built airplane which means that the NTSB will conduct a typical field investigation of the accident. John Ballantyne joins us to talk about the media focus on this event and what the political ramifications may be for light and ultralight sport aviation. E-mail John (7/5/05)

Bever Borne, Air-Tech, Inc.
Bever Borne has been answering a lot of questions lately about converting over to float planes. We answer the same questions for you. Bever can also answer your four stroke and two stroke ultralight aircraft engine questions. Do you have questions? When the show is live, call your questions in at (888) 514-2100 or you can IM them in on AOL or Yahoo Instant Messenger to UFRadio. Air-Tech, Inc (6/28/05)

Mike Loehle, Loehle Aircraft
Last time Mike Loehle talked about painting airplanes, lots of people said that the interview ended just as Mike was getting to some important details. Well, this time we chat with Mike for two whole segments. If you are planning a painting project or already have one in progress, Mike can help you out. Loehle Aircraft Corporation (Part 1) (6/21/05)

Shawn Okun, Float Planes and Amphibs
We visit with Shawn Okun, who just won Sun 'n Fun's Best Commercial Built Airplane (Ultra Light) for the second year running. This prestigious Award was given to the FPNA crew for its build of the Leza AirCam Drifter. The build team was headed up by Denny Franklin with the FPNA Team. The aircraft has not been seen in public for some time and is being re-introduced to the general public in the form of Land, Floats or Amphibious versions. Float Planes And Amphibs (5/24/05)

Bob Ellefson, Aircraft Supermarket Inc./Golden Circle Airt
The T-Bird has seen a lot of improvements lately. Floats are now offered along with other great features for the ultralight airplane. We talk with Bob Ellefson from Golden Circle Air. Aircraft Supermarket Inc. (5/17/05)

Bill Lishman, Operation Migration
Bill Lishman joins us to talk about his work in helping endangered birds reistablish migration routes with ultralight aircraft. Starting in 1986 by using his Easy Riser to fly with Canada geese, Bill now flies with endangered species like Sandhill cranes and Whooping cranes. Bill's autobiography, Father Goose, was made into the feature film Fly Away Home. We also talk about the upcoming Tullahoma Festival of Wings where Bill will be appearing. Bill Lishman's web Site (5/17/05)

Mike Loehle, Loehle Aircraft
Loehle Aircraft produces some fascinating airplanes and the factory that produces them is interesting itself. Mike Loehle talks us through some of the things I got to see recently while visiting Mike and Sandy in Wartrace, Tennessee. Loehle Aircraft Corporation (5/10/05)

Erik Pederson, Phantom Aeronautics
Erik Pederson joins us to talk about all of the news at Phantom Aeronautics. The Phantom factory is relocated and the folks there are busy getting ready for Sun 'n Fun. Erik tells us about the Phantom Part 103 Legal Aircraft and a light weight rotary engine they are now offering. Phantom Aeronautics (4/5/05)

Bever Borne, Air-Tech, Inc.
Bever tells us about the upcoming Splash-In at Lake Parker in Lakeland, Florida. This is a great part of the Sun 'n Fun experience that can only be seen by leaving the Lakeland Airport for a day to the lake. Bever can also answer your four stroke and two stroke ultralight aircraft engine questions. Do you have questions? When the show is live, call your questions in at (888) 514-2100 or you can IM them in on AOL or Yahoo Instant Messenger to UFRadio. Air-Tech, Inc More on the Splash-In (3/29/05)

John Moody, Pioneer Flyer
I guess most everybody that has been in ultralighting for more than a couple of years has heard of John Moody. He is the guy that started it all, working up from hang gliders in the early '70's to finally building the first powered ultralight. We visit with him about the early days of flying ultralights. Pioneer Flyer. (Part 1) (3/22/05)

Scott Wick, Jim Kaiser Wicks Aircraft Supply
Scott Wick and Jim Kaiser are now flying the Hornet. The join us to talk about how the plane flies and what they like about it. Wicks Aircraft Supply (2/15/05)

Bill Bardin, Ultralights of Sacramento
Bill Bardin was also in Sebring, Florida. Last week Bill went through the FAA training course and became a Sport Pilot, a Sport Pilot Certified Flight Instructor, a Sport Pilot Designated Pilot Examiner, and a Sport Pilot Designated Flight Instructor Examiner. He achieved all of this despite not having any FAA ratings going into the class. We talk about his experience leading up to his selection for the course, the work he went through at the course, and his new responsibilities. Ultralights of Sacramento (Part 1) (1/25/05)

Denis Porter, President, Paso Robles Ultralight Association
Over the past couple of months, Denis Porter and the Paso Robles Ultralight Association have been fighting a ban on ultralight airplanes at the Paso Robles Airport. They are going through a battle that ultralight pilots have fought and won before, but it is beginning to get costly and it is keeping them out of the sky. Denis joins us to discuss the impacts of the ban, how it came about, and steps that are being taken to get ultralights and light sport aircraft flying again in Paso Robles, California. vdrivedenis@juno.com (Part 1) (1/11/05)

Scott Severen, IndUS Aviation, Inc.
Scott Severen joins us to talk airplanes. IndUS Aviation is offering the Sport E, a two-place, all-aluminum aircraft designed by John Thorp. Formally know as the Thorp T 211, the airplane will be offered for the homebuilder to assemble under the Experimental 51% rule as well as the Light Sport Aircraft category. Scott tells us about the plane and the types that are available. IndUS Aviation (12/14/04)

Lars Eriksson, pilotmix.com
Lars Eriksson reports in on the ultralight-light sport aircraft scene in Sweden. We talk about regulations, what people are flying and more. He also introduces us to the light aviation on-line database, pilotmix.com. (11/30/04)

Roy Scott, Superflite Aircraft Covering & Finishing Systems
We talk to Roy Scott about the Superflite covering system. He explains the differences between vinyl and urethane aircraft covering products. Learn the advantages of a true urethane covering system. If you are planning to build a fabric coated aircraft, you will want to check this segment out. (11/30/04)

Bud Gish
Bud tells us about EAA's Tribute to Ultralight Pioneers, a new exhibit in the works at the EAA AirVenture Museum, highlighting the three decades-old ultralight movement that burst on the scene and grew up around EAA Oshkosh. The exhibit will feature eight ultralights from the EAA collection, suspended from the museum's Restoration Center ceiling. They include the early Kiceniuk Icarus V from 1973; the Solar Riser (solar powered Easy Riser); an American Aerolights Double Eagle II; and an Antares MH 39 Flex Wing that belonged to the late Mike Jacober. Find out how pilots are making this tribute to Mike Jacober happen. EAA Article. (11/16/04)

Phil Lockwood, Lockwood Aviation
Phil Lockwood has really been recognized this year. He is the winner of several awards including the prestigious USUA Moody Award. Phil joins a stellar group of individuals in the industry, including Jack McCornack, Wayne Ison , Tom Peghiny, Homer Kolb, Dan Johnson, Vincent Vitollo, Boris Popov, John Ballantyne, Dr. Henry O. Malone, Charles Slusarczyk and Dennis Pagen. We talk about some of the things he has done. www.lockwood-aviation.com. (11/9/04)

Dan Johnson, ByDanJohnson.com
Dan Johnson just got back recently from a trip to Israel where he did a Sport Pilot briefing for an EAA chapter there. But while he was in country, he was given the chance to do some ultralight flying. He shares with us some of his experiences there. www.ByDanJohnson.com (10/5/04)

Scott Wick & Chris Loemker, Wicks Aircraft Supply
This past weekend, I got a chance to fly in Wick's Sting airplane. What a great plane with an amazing view. Scott Wick and Chris Loemker join us to talk about the plane, its capabilities and just how much fun it is to fly. www.wicksaircraft.com/ (10/5/04)

John Grammer, Scottsburg Aero Club
John Grammer gives us a report on everything that happened at the 8th U.S. National Microlight Championships. The competition results, the fly-in, and the banquet will all be covered. ultralightnationals.com (9/28/04)

Kevin Byrne, SportplaneVM.com
Kevin Byrne spent the weekend at the Reno Air Races filming for SportplaneVM. He joins us to tell us what an event like that is all about. www.sportplanetv.com/ (9/21/04)

John Lasko, Quicksilver Manufacturing
With all the hubbub about Sport Pilot taking effect on 1 September and talk of implementation meetings and the like, it is easy to forget that there are some pilots that can take advantage of Sport Pilot right now. One of the first, (if not the first) pilots taking advantage of this new rule is John Lasko from Quicksilver. He tells us how. www.quicksilveraircraft.com (9/14/04)

Scott Wick, Jim Kaiser & Chris Loemker, Wicks Aircraft Supply
The guys at Wicks talk to us about the opening of their new build center and talk about what this means to people that want to build their own aircraft, but don't have the space to do it. www.wicksaircraft.com/ (9/7/04)

John Hauck, Ultralight Pilot
John Hauck doesn't just fly the local pattern. John has just gotten back from his third trip to Alaska from Titus, Alabama, flying his Kolb Mark III. John shares details of the trip with us. (9/7/04)

Rod Cowgill, Biplanes of Yesteryear
Rod just got back from Oshkosh where he was showing off the Mifyter II. This is a side-by-side seating biplane. Rod put a lot of work into the design and he tells us all about it. www.mifyter.com (8/10/04)

Scott Wick & Chris Loemker, Wicks Aircraft Supply
Scott introduces Chris Loemker of Wicks new build assist center. They talk about two current projects in house, a Titan Tornado and an RV8A. www.wicksaircraft.com/ (6/29/04)

Chuck Slusarczyk, CGS Hawk
In the wake of a tragic ultralight accident in Punta Gorda, Florida, pilot Richard Howe was quoted regarding ultralight flying that, "It's inherently unsafe.." Chuck Slusarczyk, a well known aircraft designer, joins us to dispute Richard's claim. In fact, in many situations ultralight aircraft can be shown to be far safer than other types of flying. www.cgsaviation.com/ (6/15/04)

Erik Pederson, Phantom Aircraft
Six months ago Erik Pederson took over the manufacture of the Phantom line of aircraft. We check in with him to see what it is like to be an airplane manufacturer and see what kinds of things he is planning for the future. phantomaeronautics.com (5/25/03)

Mike Stratman, California Power Systems
Mike joins us to talk about the history of ultralights, light planes and the changes he has seen over the years. And from his unique vantage point as a major component and accessory supplier, he has seen a lot! www.800-Airwolf.com (5/25/03)

Gregg Ellsworth, BRS
Gregg Ellsworth has just gotten back from the ASTM meetings in Salt Lake City, UT. This is part of BRS's commitment to make ballistic chutes available to the new category of light sport planes. He tells us about things that are going on both in the ASTM process and in the BRS factory. brsparachutes.com (5/25/03)

Brian & Carol Carpenter, Rainbow Aviation
Brian & Carol collaborated on the writing of a new book for ultralight pilots. A Professional Approach to Ultralights offers 256 pages of plain-spoken, real world, ultralight-specific information based on over 25 years of experience. You'll discover invaluable strategies, tips, and an overall guiding philosophy in the purchase, maintenance, and operation of your ultralight that will stretch your spending power and create a safer flight environment. Brian & Carol both join us to talk about their flying operation and the book. www.rainbowaviation.com (5/18/03)

John Graber, JDT Mini-Max
Production of the Mini-MAX and Hi-MAX ultralight aircraft lines has moved to a 10,000 square foot manufacturing facility at the Nappanee, Indiana Airport. Wayne Ison sold the assets and manufacturing rights to a new company called JDT Mini-Max. The company is led by principals John Graber, Dave Trump and Thinus DeBeer. Other investors include Jim Holbtook, Larry Israel and Lowell Farrand. We talk to John Graber about the move, the aircraft, and how you can build and fly a Mini-Max! www.jdtmini-max.com/ East Tennessee Lonesome Buzzards News Group (5/11/03)

Dick Starks, Kansas City Dawn Patrol
Dick Starks and his friends build and fly Nieuports. They share their experiences through their web site, builders forums, books and video. Dick joins us to talk about the challenges and fun surrounding Nieuports. www.kcdawnpatrol.org/ (5/4/03)

Scott Wick & Jim Kaiser, Wicks Aircraft
Scott Wick & Jim Kaiser are back from Sun 'n Fun and give a report. Wick's Aircraft picks up the Titan line of aircraft. wicksaircraft.com/ (4/27/04)

Alex Dell, Homebuilder
Do you want to build an airplane? Alex Dell has done that, building a Kitfox Lite. Learn about this popular airplane and what goes into building it. www.skystar.com/lite.htm. And the Yahoo news group: groups.yahoo.com/group/skystarkitfoxliteowners/. (4/6/04)

Jack McCornack, Ultralight Writer & More
Jack McCornack has earned the Moody Award for his more than 25 years as an educator, ultralight airplane designer, writer and pilot. Jack has trained pilots in preparation for national and international competition. In addition, he has participated in the World Air Games and the World Microlight Competition. In 1978, Pterodactyl Ltd. - founded by Jack was the only ultralight airplane manufacturer with a formal flight training system. The training manual entered the public domain when it was published in Glider Rider; now Ultralight Flying! Magazine. Other manufacturers were allowed to copy or revise the Pterodactyl Ptraining Syllabus and they did not have to pay any royalties. www.usua.org/HotNews/Archives/20031213.html (3/16/04)

Bever Borne, Air-Tech, Inc.
Bever joins us to talk about flying ultralight airplanes on floats. He has customers that fly all kinds of ultralight aircraft off of float systems. Learn some of the differences and challenges when flying off of floats! www.air-techinc.com (3/16/04)

Jon Jacobs, Light-Train Ultralight Flight Instruction
Jon Jacobs set an ultralight record—distance in a straight line with limited fuel—on November 30, covering 170 miles with just 7.5 kilograms (about 2.7 gallons) of fuel in his Mitchell Wing b-10 ultralight airplane. This flight was also listed as one of the National Aeronautic Association's (NAA) "Most Memorable Aviation Records of 2003". Jon tells us about it! (3/2/04)

Ron Gonzi, The Ultralight Store.
Ron Gonzi has been involved in ultralights since the late 1970's when Ultralights were just starting to get popular. Ron opened a business where he made aftermarket sails for the then popular Ultralights, primarily Eipper Quicksilver's and a few others. Ron is still making aftermarket sail sets for a variety of Ultralight aircraft and has a business called "The Ultralight Store" now located in Hemet California. Learn about the making of dacron sail sets, and the things necessary to know how to take care of these and when to dispose of then in order to remain safe. (2/3/04)

Mike Harrison, Skyes the Limit!
Mike Harrison is a Challenger dealer doing business in Arizona. Learn about his transition from part-time to full-time dealer and about some of the products he manufactures for the ultralight community. For pictures of some of Mike's work, check out. New Wheels (11/25/03)

Erik Pederson, Phantom Aircraft
With the untimely loss of Pat Schultheis, many people worried that Phantom Aircraft would be at risk. This week Erik Pederson announced that he would be taking over the company. Erik shares with us his plans to grow Phantom Aircraft . www.phantomaircraft.com/ (11/11/03)

Mike Loehle, Loehle Aircraft
Mike Loehle received the most "votes" from the industry, and thus was the 2003 winner of the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association (LAMA) President's Award for Outstanding Individual in the light aircraft community. We talk with Mike about the award and his designs. loehle.com (10/14/03)

Cress Walker, MukTuk Floats
Cress Walker joins us from Canada with an interesting story of one mans journey into flight and of the development and creation of world's simplest wood float design - MukTuk floats. These floats have introduced hundreds of pilots to the joy and freedom of flying from water in aircraft from 400lbs to 2000lbs. ultralightfloats.com (9/23/03)

Karen Oltman, Quad City Ultralights
When you call the number for Challenger Aircraft, odds are the first voice you hear is Karen's. Well, this past weekend she took her first flight in a Challenger at the company's 20th Anniversary Fly-In. Karen Oltman tells us about the Fly-In and her first flight in an ultralight airplane. quadcitychallenger.com (9/23/03)

Steve Bensinger, 2003 United States Microlight Team Member
Steve Bensinger was also part of the US Microlight Team. He shares with us what it is like to be an international competitor. homepage.mac.com/sbensinger (9/9/03)

Dennis Demeter, Michigan Ultralight Association
Paula Lupina, Alamo Air Force
Clark Smith, Alamo Air Force
On July 1, 2003 we lost another great contributor to the sport of ultralighting. Dennis Demeter, Paula Lupina, and Clark Smith join us to talk about someone that will be sorely missed, Pat Schultheis of Phantom Aircraft www.phantomaircraft.com (7/15/03)

Ed Downs, Skystar
Ed Downs joins us to talk about the Kitfox line of ultralight airplane produced by Skystar. www.skystar.com/ (7/15/03)

Bever Borne, Air-Tech, Inc.
The closer you fly to water, the more you have to concern yourself with corrosion. Learn how corrosion can can hurt your ultralight airplane and some steps you can take to prevent corrosion. A must listen for those of you with floats! www.air-techinc.com (7/8/03)

Larry Smith, AmeriPlanes
The Mitchell wing is one of the most unique light airplane designs on the market. Learn more about the Mitchell Wing's rich history and its future from Larry Smith. www.ameriplanes.com (6/17/03)

Don Zank, Zanklites
Don Zank joins us to talk about the Patriot airplane and about flying in Wisconsin. www.zanklites.com (6/3/03)

Rod Cowgill, Biplanes of Yesteryear
Looking to own and fly a biplane? The Mifyter might be the plane for you. Rod Cowgill of Biplanes of Yesteryear is now manufacturing and selling this plane. www.mifyter.com (5/20/03)

Tom Peghiny, Flightstar, Inc.
Tom is chairman of the ASTM Subcommittee for Fixed Wing Light Sport Aircraft (LSA). That committee is responsible for writing the consensus standards for fixed wing aircraft to be built under the anticipated LSA rules. The subcommittee accomplished a lot in last week's meetings in Kansas City and Tom will tell us all about it! www.fly-flightstar.com (5/13/03)

Felice Apodaca, Brian Ranch Airport
The Brian Ranch Airport is preparing to host the 9th Annual "World's Smallest Airshow" featuring ultralights and other airsports. Felice will tell us what to expect at one of the coolest named airshows in the world! www.brianranch.com (5/13/03)

Paul Servaty, Owner/Pilot
Continuing our focus on the winners at Sun 'n Fun. Paul's Kolb Firestar won Best Type - Fixed Wing at the show. This is not the first time this ship has been in the winners' circle. (5/6/03)

Bever Borne, Air-Tech
Another off-site Sun 'n Fun activity is the Seaplane Splash-In at Lake Parker. Bever reports in with some of the ultralight activity from there. http://www.seaplanes.org/home/events/LakeParker.htm
http://www.air-techinc.com/ (4/22/03)

Chuck Slusarczyk, CGS Aviation
Another big winner in Paradise City was Chuck. Two Hawks won, one for 'Best Type, Construction Kit' and the other was for 'Best Type, Antique'. Chuck will explain what goes into winning a best antique award in the ultralight area! www.cgsaviation.com (4/22/03)

Dan Grunloh, Head Ultralight Judge at Sun 'n Fun
Dan was in charge of the team that had the always daunting task of determining which aircraft were the best of the show. He shares the results with us. www.eaa.org/communications/eaanews/030408_sunnfun_winners.html (4/15/03)

John Ballantyne, UltraFlight & Aero-News.net
John has been attending Sun 'n Fun for a long time now, but this year he was not tied to a both. He tells us about his wanderings around Paradise City and gives a great report. (4/15/03)