PiperSport LSA debuts here before deliveries

By: Paul Lowe

February 3, 2010
Aircraft

Piper Aircraft’s entrant into the Light Sport Aviation (LSA) segment, the two-seat PiperSport, is parked in the static display here, its first venture outside of the U.S. in Piper colors. The U.S. manufacturer, which is making its Singapore Airshow debut, launched the aircraft last month.

The PiperSport is manufactured under a licensing agreement with Czech Sport Aircraft and distributed through Piper’s master distributor, PiperSport Distribution. Deliveries are due to start in April.

The PiperSport features a 1,200-fpm rate of climb and is capable of reaching a maximum cruise speed of 138 mph and an altitude of 10,000 feet. It has a gross weight of 1,320 pounds and 600 pounds of useful load.

With the ability to run on automotive fuel, the PiperSport’s 30-gallon fuel capacity gives it a range of 600 nm and the ability to refuel virtually anyplace in the world that offers either 100LL or premium unleaded autogas. The engine is a 100-hp Rotax 912.

There are three variants of the aircraft: the PiperSport (priced at $119,900); the PiperSport LT trainer ($129,900); and the PiperSport LTD ($139,900). The new models, which all have the same gross weight, speed, fuel capacity and range, feature leather seats and a modern design. They are equipped with a BRS complete aircraft parachute recovery system.   

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