After the FAA approved the sport pilot and light sport aircraft (LSA) rules, the industry braced for a European invasion. Aircraft that already met the specifications had been flying overseas for years. Now one company is throwing things in reverse.
The Skylark LSA, previously manufactured in the Czech Republic, will now be built in Tracy, Calif., in facilities owned by Skyview Aviation. They will roll out the door in ready-to-fly configuration.
Skylark designer David Marsden has already introduced several refinements to the airplane, dubbing it the Skylark II. Changes include a larger canopy, full-span flaperons, a glass panel, autopilot, and fairing enhancements.
“The devaluation of the dollar against European currencies has made it possible to produce the aircraft in this country, with significant technological upgrades, and no increase in price,” said Craig Vincent, director of sales for Skyview.
The aircraft have been selling for about $125,000, with instruments, and will continue to be marketed through Sportsplanes.com.
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