--- In Q-LIST@... <mailto:Q-LIST%40yahoogroups.com>, "Patrick Panzera" <panzera@...> wrote:

It is my understanding that the FAA is not likely to approve a LSA
certificate unless manufacture data indicates all of the

parameters can be

met. In the case of the Quickie, the FAA is unlikely to approve Light
Sport
even if a builder modifies the Quickie in some manor to reduce the

stall

speed.

Gang,

Before this gets too far, I have to gig this on a technicality.

First, the only aircraft that can be registered as an E-LSA are

those kitted

as such, by a manufacturer of a certified S-LSA. In other words, since
Zenith makes and sells an S-LSA CH601, they can if they chose, offer an
E-LSA kit of that same plane (verbatim) and it has to be built 100%
according to plans and specs, with absolutely NO deviations, save maybe
paint.

Exception: If you own an S-LSA, YOU may downgrade it to an E-LSA.

That's currently the ONLY way to register any aircraft as an E-LSA.

Second, the Quickie line of aircraft, in its current state of ownership,
will always be just an experimental.

If you, as a Sport Pilot, wish to exercise your privileges to fly

under your

SP license, you have to do so in an LSA qualifying aircraft, be it a
certified production S-LSA, an E-LSA, an Experimental, or a Certified GA
aircraft. It's up to you to know if the plan qualifies or not.

Now back to the question at hand. There are three LSA performance
parameters:

1. Maximum takeoff weight - 1320 lbs
2. Maximum speeds - 120 kts at maximum power (138 MPH) calibrated

airspeed

3. Max stall speed - 45 kts (51.8 MPH) VS1* calibrated airspeed

*VS1 = the stalling speed or the minimum steady flight speed

obtained in a

specific configuration.

Numbers one and two, no problem. If #2 IS a problem, re-pitch the

prop until

it's not. Accept the vertical climb capability in trade.

Number three could become a problem, but VG's and a very low weight

could

solve it.

Here's the "loophole" if there is one.

YOU are the builder and the author of the POH and the placards.

YOUR plane is unproven until you fly it and find or define the flight
envelope, including stall. Q's don't "stall" in the traditional

manner so we

have to look further at the definition: "or the minimum steady

flight speed

obtained". What is considered "steady flight"? I'm not sure but a lot of
definitions use the term, "minimum controllable speed". Can you still
"control" your Q at max pitch-buck? (Make controllable turns and keep a
heading? Maintain a constant airspeed within a reasonable range?) If

so, is

that speed below 45 kts? Then placard that as the bottom of the

green arc

and consider your plane LSA-qualified.

Pat

I see. Well this is all very disappointing. I was hoping to be able to build one, get my LSA
certification (will save me at least $3k because I'm colorblind and would only be able to fly
during daylight hours even with a GAPP endorsement) and have a great airplane that is
very economical and fun to fly.

Thank you so much for weighing in on the issue gentlemen.

Have a good evening.

-Matt C