2010 Sport Aviation Expo Attendees Reflect on the LSA Market

ANN Note: As we cover the 2011 US Sport Aviation Expo, ANN has to admit that we have great concerns about the direction and viability of the LSA market. While events like the US SAE have done a spectacular job (no kidding... we are truly impressed) of helping to provide a focal point for all things LSA, the poor direction provided to LSA by the FAA and a number of the alphabet associations leaves us wondering whether or not the tremendous potential offered by the LSA market will ever get the chance to become a reality. 

ANN and our Aero-TV crews are covering Sebring right now, with a clear intent to take a hard look at where this industry stands and what may be needed to see it through to a healthier, happier future. As we undertake this coverage and dive in to the planes, people, and products of Sebring, let's take a look back at the issues and stories we featured in 2010 to provide a counterpoint to what we'll see and discover this week. -- Jim Campbell, ANN Editor-In-Chief 

On January 21st through January 24th, 2010, sport aviation enthusiasts gathered at the Sebring Regional Airport for the annual Sport Aviation Expo. Held in Sebring, Florida, the Expo is the place to see, buy, and sell aircraft operating under the LSA rule such as fixed-wings, trikes, powered parachutes, motor-gliders, and gyroplanes.

 In addition, LSA industry leaders display the latest in sport aviation technology including new aircraft and electronics. The Expo also provides educational forums, such as training programs and insurance seminars, specifically geared towards aviation’s Sport Pilot.

For many, the LSA market provides an affordable opportunity to engage in the aviation community at prices far less expensive than with general aviation; many LSA pilots and aircraft owners who might have otherwise been unable to participate in the aviation community can enjoy flying at new and exciting levels. At the Sport Aviation Expo, newcomers to the industry can learn more about LSA, compare available aircraft in the LSA market, get demonstration rides, and receive guidance on financing, insurance, and training.

Each year, the Sport Aviation Expo continues to be one of the largest events in the LSA community. Aero-TV took the time to speak with attendees to gather their perspectives on light sport aviation. In the first part of the three-part series, we asked LSA enthusiasts what they believe are the greatest obstacles to getting involved in the light sport market.

FMI: www.sport-aviation-expo.com, www.aero-tv.net, www.youtube.com/aerotvnetwork, http://twitter.com/AeroNews