SUN-N-FUN 2025 – DAY 2 PHOTOS
LAKELAND, FLORIDA
[See image gallery at rotaxnews.net]
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BENSON DAYS 2025
Wauchula, Fl
On our way up to Sun-n-Fun, we made what is now considered an annual pilgrimage to Benson Days – self dubbed a “World Class Rotary Fly In” and it is truly the best place to go and explore the world of gyroplanes.
As I did a few years ago, I am sure you are wondering why is a Fly In called Benson Days. Well, look no further than their website and it will give you a quick overview of Igor Benson.
Most of the gyroplane manufacturers had representatives on had to explain the differences in their models and offer a test flight for those with the bug to fly something so amazing. Here are a few pictures from Saturday:
[See image gallery at rotaxnews.net]
ARE YOU READY FOR SUN ‘N FUN 2025?
Lakeland, FL
We are less than a week away from the unofficial start of the 2025 airshow season and I for one am so eager to get going. So much Rotax news for the new year! First, CubCrafters announces they are now in full scale production of their amazing CarbonCub UL powered by the powerful Rotax 916iS turbocharged engine. Second, quite a few SB’s were released by the factory over the Christmas holidays and into the start of the year. Rotax takes it commitment to being the best very seriously. You can read more about those at ROTAX OWNER as they have provided video guidance. Be sure to signup for their notifications.
As I mentioned (and got distracted) Sun ‘n Fun 2025 starts next Tuesday. The Rotax iService and Training Centre booth (click for map) is still in the same location in Hangar D – Booths D-059 and D-060.
Representatives from all the US independent Service Centers (iSC), Canada, Brazil and Colombia will have their technical representatives on hand to answer your questions and provide guidance on sales and training.
For those of you who want to get a little more knowledge about the Rotax engine line, or need some injected engine installation help, the iSC have information sessions in the forum building. This year will be the first time the are offering these sessions in both Spanish and Portuguese.
ROTAX Information Sessions at Sun ‘n Fun 2025
| Day | Information Session | Start Time | Speaker | Location | Language |
| Tue. April 1 | Intro To Rotax Aircraft Engines with Q&A | 9:00 AM | Lauren Burton | CFAA-05 | English |
| Tue. April 1 | Introdução aos motores Aeronáuticos Rotax com perg | 9:00 AM | Bruno Scotton | CFAA-06 | Portuguese |
| Tue. April 1 | Rotax® Injected Engines Information Session | 1:00 PM | Brett Lawton | CFAA-08 | English |
| Wed. April 2 | Intro To Rotax Aircraft Engines with Q&A | 9:00 AM | Lauren Burton | CFAA-05 | English |
| Wed. April 2 | INTRODUCCION A LOS MOTORES DE AVIACION MARCA ROTAX | 9:00 AM | Uwe Nickelsen | CFAA-06 | Spanish |
| Wed. April 2 | Rotax® Injected Engines Information Session | 1:00 PM | Dean Vogel | CFAA-10 | English |
| Thu. April 3 | Intro To Rotax Aircraft Engines with Q&A | 9:00 AM | Lauren Burton | CFAA-05 | English |
| Thu. April 3 | INTRODUCCION A LOS MOTORES DE AVIACION MARCA ROTAX | 9:00 AM | Uwe Neckelsen | CFAA-06 | Spanish |
| Thu. April 3 | Rotax® Injected Engines Information Session | 1:00 PM | Mike Burton | CFAA-08 | English |
| Fri. April 4 | Intro To Rotax Aircraft Engines with Q&A | 9:00 AM | Lauren Burton | CFAA-05 | English |
| Fri. April 4 | Introdução aos motores Aeronáuticos Rotax com perg | 9:00 AM | Bruno Scotton | CFAA-06 | Portuguese |
| Fri. April 4 | Rotax® Injected Engines Information Session | 1:00 PM | Morris Smith | CFAA-07 | English |
| Sun. April 6 | Rotax® Injected Engines Information Session | 9:00 AM | Brett Lawton | CFAA-08 | English |
We will be onsite all week long – so keep checking back for all the latest Rotax SNF news!
THE CARBON CUB UL ENTERS FULL SCALE PRODUCTION
YAKIMA, WA – March 26, 2025 – CubCrafters, the world leader in innovative backcountry aircraft design, is proud to announce that its Carbon Cub UL has officially entered production. The Carbon Cub UL, offered both as a factory built Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and as a factory builder assist Experimental Amateur Built (EAB) aircraft, combines advanced carbon-fiber construction, cutting-edge technology, and remarkable performance capabilities. Set to once again redefine the standards of recreational aviation, this newest iteration of the Carbon Cub provides both new and seasoned aviators with an unmatched backcountry flying experience.
The Carbon Cub UL is designed to deliver the ultimate in versatility, durability, and ease of use. Whether flying over remote landscapes, performing in short takeoff and landing (STOL) competitions, or navigating busy airfields, the Carbon Cub UL offers a superior balance of power, advanced technology, and fuel efficiency, all of which is ideal for a wider range of backcountry missions than ever before.
Unmatched Performance and Innovation
The Carbon Cub UL sets a new benchmark in personal adventure aviation. The Carbon Cub’s proven lightweight, high-strength chromoly steel airframe ensures both durability and performance. Powered by the new Rotax 916 iS engine, a technologically advanced turbocharged multifuel engine, the Carbon Cub UL can run on either traditional avgas or newer unleaded fuels, and is engineered for maximum performance at any density altitude. The combination of the aircraft’s aerodynamic design, incredible power, and its lightweight structure allows for exceptional short field ability, superior climb rates, along with unprecedented fuel efficiency and range.
The Carbon Cub UL is unmatched in its ability to operate in challenging backcountry and short-field scenarios, making it the ideal choice for pilots seeking to explore hard-to-reach destinations. Optional tundra tires, floats, or skis allow the Carbon Cub UL to land on primitive (or nonexistent) airports, snow, and even water, making it the perfect aircraft for adventure and exploration.
Aviation for All Pilots
CubCrafters has invested heavily in the newest prepreg composite, titanium, and other material advancements for the Carbon Cub UL, which has resulted in an astonishingly low basic empty weight of only 807 lbs, such that the aircraft has both a large useful load and can support a wide range of configurations and options.
In current LSA category the aircraft can carry two adults and full fuel, while in the EAB category it has a useful load that is larger than the empty weight of the aircraft. The UL has been designed to take advantage the FAA’s new Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) rules, and can be easily upgraded to take advantage of the increased performance that the new rules are expected to allow for LSA aircraft when implemented.
The aircraft’s simplicity and user-friendly design make it a great choice for both beginner and experienced pilots. Featuring single lever throttle and propeller operation, intuitive flight controls and easy-to-operate avionics, the Carbon Cub UL allows pilots to quickly gain confidence, whether they are just starting their aviation journey or adding a versatile new aircraft to their fleet.
“The Carbon Cub UL is the culmination of years of research, engineering, and pilot feedback,” said Patrick Horgan, President and CEO of CubCrafters. “We are thrilled to introduce this incredible aircraft to the aviation community, as it combines the best elements of traditional tailwheel flying with modern materials and technology. Our goal was to create yet another best of class backcountry aircraft that is both extremely fun to fly and incorporates the latest in advanced technologies, and we believe we’ve achieved that with the Carbon Cub UL.”
Manufacturing and Availability
CubCrafters is committed to high-quality craftsmanship and precision manufacturing, ensuring that each Carbon Cub UL meets the highest standards of safety and performance. The company’s state-of-the-art production facilities, based in Yakima, Washington, are equipped with the latest technologies to streamline the assembly process while maintaining rigorous quality control.
The first production Carbon Cub ULs will be delivered to customers in Q2 of 2025, and the company is accepting deposits into 2026. CubCrafters authorized dealers provide personalized customer service and support for all owners. Customers can choose a range of customization options, including fabric and paint schemes, one or two seat interior configurations, and avionics packages designed to tailor the aircraft to their unique flying needs.
Looking Toward the Future
The Carbon Cub UL is very quickly becoming a favorite among backcountry aviation enthusiasts and recreational pilots around the world. As the aircraft enters full scale production, CubCrafters remains dedicated to delivering exceptional aircraft to pilots everywhere.
“The Carbon Cub UL is an aircraft that has truly exceeded all of our expectations” adds Brad Damm, CubCrafters’ Vice President. “Our team engineers and designers amazingly came in almost 50 lbs. below our target weight, while at the same time the collaboration with Rotax on developing the turbocharged 916 iS for backcountry applications has been game changing for the entire industry. When a Carbon Cub UL arrives at your home airport take a close look, talk to the owner, get a ride if you can. You won’t be disappointed!”
ABOUT CUBCRAFTERS
Founded in 1980 by Jim Richmond, CubCrafters’ roots are in the 80+ year history of classic grassroots aviation, but the company’s products and services are innovative and completely modern. CubCrafters designs and manufactures Experimental, LSA, and Certified aircraft. The Carbon Cub family of aircraft has redefined expectations for the backcountry flying experience with innovative design, modern materials, powerful engines, and breathtaking performance. The company’s flagship XCub aircraft substantially expands the mission profile of backcountry aircraft with better speed, range, and payload than other aircraft in its class. The newest UL class of aircraft brings the most modern engine and airframe technology to the backcountry, reducing its environmental footprint without compromising performance. The key to our success is our ability to create unique value in the experience of personal adventure aviation!
Super Petrel 4th Annual Trifecta!
Ormond Beach, Fl.
Under Promise and Over Deliver. It is refreshing in this day and age to see an aircraft manufacturer very quietly introduce a new product. No major fanfare or huge display at Oshkosh.
Yet, the Super Petrel XP is a major player in the amphibian market. They sent us this link to their annual training day – held in Ormond Beach Florida. If you are in the amphib market, we encourage you to stop by the Super Petrel USA website, or even go visit them in sunny Florida!
DAY ONE – ROTAX FLY IN – WELS, AUSTRIA
240823 – Wels, Austria
We are blessed to be at Rotax’s 3rd Annual FlyIn! Here are some quick pics from Day 1! Stay tuned for more!
[See image gallery at rotaxnews.net]
2024 KITFOX FLY-IN
HOMEDALE, IDAHO – S66
Kitfox Aircraft hosted once again host another amazing annual fly-in. Have a look at the photos below.
If you are looking for more information about these strong, versatile and very agile aircraft, go to https://kitfoxaircraft.com/
John and his team will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Enjoy the pics the crew sent in ….
[See image gallery at rotaxnews.net]
Advanced Powerplant Solutions, LLC Acquires Leading Edge Air Foils
May 1, 2024
Advanced Powerplant Solutions, LLC Acquires Leading Edge Air Foils; Named New ROTAX independent Service Centre for Central USA
Delavan, WI — Advanced Powerplant Solutions, LLC (APS), under the new ownership of Jeremy and Daniela Knoll of AeroSport fame, is proud to announce its acquisition of Leading Edge Air Foils, LLC (LEAF). Effective immediately, APS will serve as the ROTAX independent Service Centre for the Central United States, continuing and expanding the esteemed services previously offered by LEAF.
Located at the scenic Lake Lawn Airport (C59) in Delavan, Wisconsin, opposite the beautiful Lake Lawn Resort, APS is strategically positioned to support the Rotax powered aircraft community with unmatched expertise and enthusiasm. The acquisition by Jeremy and Daniela Knoll, who have been key players in the light sport industry through AeroSport since 2012, marks a significant step in their commitment to enhancing aircraft sales, maintenance, and flight training.
Under the leadership of CEO Jeremy Knoll, COO Daniela Knoll, and newly appointed Technical Director Brett Lawton, APS is dedicated to maintaining the legacy of LEAF while integrating innovative solutions and expanded service offerings. Customers can look forward to a comprehensive range of ROTAX engines, parts, technical support, repair, and maintenance services.
Furthermore, APS plans to launch ROTAX technician training courses, providing invaluable educational opportunities to industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.
“We are excited to build on the foundation that LEAF established and propel the business into a new era with Advanced Powerplant Solutions,” said Jeremy Knoll. “Our goal is to be the central hub for ROTAX services in the USA, ensuring reliability, expertise, and the highest standards of customer service.”
For more information about Advanced Powerplant Solutions and its services, please contact:
Advanced Powerplant Solutions
(800) 532-3462
About APS
Advanced Powerplant Solutions, LLC (APS), located in Delavan, Wisconsin, is the Central USA ROTAX independent Service Centre. Owned by light sport industry veterans Jeremy and Daniela Knoll of AeroSport, APS specializes in ROTAX engines, parts, technical support, and maintenance. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, APS aims to provide top-tier maintenance solutions and training for ROTAX powered aircraft enthusiasts.
Contact: Name: Jeremy Knoll/Daniela Knoll Title: CEO/COO Phone: (800) 532-3462 Email: info@advancedpowerplant.com Website: www.advancedpowerplant.com
Advanced Powerplant Solutions
Lake Lawn Airport (C59)
2375 Geneva Street
Delavan, WI 53115
Breaking News from Super Petrel USA!
Ormand Beach, FL
Thursday, March 14th, 2024, the first two Super Petrel XP aircraft in the U.S. receive Airworthiness Certification from the FAA. The Airworthiness Certificates for these brand-new Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) marks a major milestone for the teams at Scoda Aeronautica in Brazil and Super Petrel USA in Ormond Beach.
This completes the long journey of these aircraft that arrived at the Super Petrel USA Ormond Beach facility on Thursday March 7th, 2024. They arrived in a single shipping container with two complete aircraft inside. Once safely unloaded, the ready to re-assemble aircraft were placed in the hangar where final assembly was completed.
The teams have worked tirelessly since 2017 to perfect the new XP design and have delivered these production aircraft that are now ready to fly !
With the Rotax 915iS fuel injected turbo-charged engine producing 141 hp combined with the new composite 5 blade e-prop propeller system, the performance and design of the all-new LSA from Super Petrel is simply extraordinary.
BRAZIL WELCOMES YOU!
| Goiânia, Brazil A few years ago, Rotax started something new – they did their first fly-in! Rotax powered aircraft from all around the world were invited to come to their home base in Austria for a day of events and camaraderie. It was a huge success. One of the majour requests from that event was “why not in my country”. This challenge was taken up but their marketing and the ROTAX® WORLD TOUR was created. This November, the 25th to be precise, the folks from Cruzerio Do Sul (the Rotax iSC for Brazil) are inviting YOU to be a part of the second stop of 2024! If you are looking for an adventure, sign up by clicking here. EVENT ACTIVITIES:
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS:10-15 Minute presentations from multiple vendors about their aircraft/products.
Info sections:
HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS:
TAXI:Uber & 99cab |