Yup, These Guys Are All Wet...

The aviation world's fascination with amphibious aircraft knows no bounds... so it's always news when a cool new amphib shows up. The first amphibian to be designed especially to comply with the FAA's new Light Sport Aircraft rules has debuted this week. Designed and produced by CZECH AIRCRAFT WORKS (CZAW), the Lake Sport Amphibian is also the first new certified single-engine amphibian to reach production in decades.

The design parameters were challenging: make a certifiable, roomy amphibian that will fit the LSA, and will be affordable, reliable, and fun to fly; then give it the speed and range to be practical as a transportation device; and give it dual controls, for training and peace of mind. The Lake Sport does it all, and more.

Prototype #1 first flew on March 11th, 2004. Several flights were made to test basic flight characteristics and aerodynamics. Tufting was done on the center section and empennage to analyze airflows. The flight test program was then interrupted so they could bring the bird to the US. The flight test and water test program will continue immediately after the SNF airshow. Prototype #2 is now under construction.

Everything about the Lake Sport indicates long and reliable service: full zinc chromate coating, AN and MS-series fasteners, US-sourced aircraft aluminum and tubing; and its all-metal, conventional design promises not only outstanding longevity – it is repairable anywhere, without relying on "special" production and inspection techniques.

This all-new amphibian is built by European craftsmen, with US-sourced materials. Its five watertight compartments are built with EDO-style pump-outs. The slipper-clutch Rotax 912ULS (914 also available) puts out 100 reliable horsepower while burning under 5 gph. The useful load is over 500 pounds, and the large baggage area is located nearly on the CG, to make its capacity truly usable. The wide cockpit is comfortable; and it presents a large panel area. The stable, quick-planning hull allows water takeoffs, at gross, in just 700 feet. The Lake Sport features a modem-design airfoil that provides very high lift and low drag, throughout its speed range. This wing, with its fowler flaps, permits landings on land or water in a mere 400 feet.

CZAW president Chip Erwin noted, "The Lake Sport makes it possible to cruise high above more than four hundred miles of land and water, at an easy 100 knots, in great comfort -- and still carry the things you and your friend need for the trip. Today, you can have a true amphibian, with its great comfort and capabilities — it's fast enough, and has enough range, that it competes well with other LSA landplanes – and it simply leaves floatplanes in its wake."

CZAW designed the Lake Sport after its experience in building over 500 all-metal aircraft and hundreds of aluminum floats. In fact, the company's airplanes and floats have taken home the modern Piccola Schneider Cup three times: CZAW is becoming recognized throughout Europe as a premier design, engineering, and manufacturing center for seaplane technology.

CZAW is a principal supplier of structural components to certified aircraft builder OMF, and is a recognized rebuilder of older Lake Amphibians; CZAW was recently named exclusive European and Russian marketer of the Lake Renegade line of US-built, certified amphibians.

Note: The Lake Sport is under eight feet wide with wings removed or folded; it is designed to fit on a standard-width trailer, or in a standard container. The wings are easily removed for storage and shipment.

FMI: www.airplane.cz