Clear on Top

The advent of Light Sport Aircraft has introduced many new aircraft models and some new ways of thinking to the small airplane world.  The LSA-side of the aviation community seems to run with a slightly different playbook, in some regards.  This may be a good thing – as the “traditional” light airplane business has made many more small fortunes than large ones.   

But, just how much should the LSA business model depart from traditional business practices?  The special FARs notwithstanding, we’re still just running an aircraft sales, or instruction and rental, or maintenance operation here, right?  LSA businesses don’t get a pass from the marketplace.  You need a business plan, a company structure, legal lease contracts, personnel standards and quality people.  You need to address your very real liability exposures and your potential for property losses. 

Light Sport Aircraft are not playthings.  Any aircraft operation is serious business and the serious business people will succeed, while the tinkerers will flash in the pan and soon fade away.  The aviation industry has always fed on the carcasses of the unprepared.  A 1320 pound gross weight and 120 knot speed limit doesn’t change that.