Turning heads

Long seen as the consolation prize of general aviation, light sport aircraft, or LSAs, have improved in performance and refinement in recent years to the point of being a viable alternative to standard category aircraft.

Take the Bristell, a beautifully engineered and crafted two-seat, low-wing composite and aluminum design from the Czech Republic. Manufacturer BRM Aero has churned out more than 1,000 aircraft in a surprisingly wide range of models, some of which are certified as ultralights in Europe. Much about the airplanes feels futuristic, including the one-piece fold-forward canopy, low-slung bucket seats, and Garmin touchscreen instrument panel.

Depending on the engine, the airplane will fly anywhere from 115 knots up to 155 knots. Runway performance is incredibly impressive, and since they are powered by Rotax engines, range is never a concern.

If and when the FAA publishes rules expanding the definition of a light sport aircraft as part of its MOSAIC, or Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification, initiative, expect a Bristell that can go at nearly Beechcraft Bonanza speeds on fuel burn somewhere between a Cessna 150 and 172. Or cruise along at Cessna 182 speeds on 150 fuel burns. That’s a lot less like a consolation prize and more like a winning formula.