Entry-Level Kit Aircraft Will Be Simpler, More Economical Version of Existing Legacy

Kit aircraft builders looking for the performance and style of a Lancair at a lower cost and even shorter build time need look no farther than the new fixed gear Lancair Legacy FG introduced this week at Lakeland. The prototype aircraft (shown here, during testing, without fairings or wheelpants) is on display at Lancair's show stand near the flight line.

Other than the wheels being permanently down and locked, the fixed gear aircraft is quite similar to its retractable gear counterpart. The overall configuration of the airframe is basically the same for both aircraft, but the fixed gear version is constructed primarily of fiberglass rather than carbon fiber. Additionally, Lancair designed the kit to accept four-cylinder Lycoming engines as well as simplified panels and interior appointments to lower costs and speed up building times.

"Our aircraft line has pushed the outer limits of what's possible in a homebuilt airplane in terms of performance and sophistication and we'll continue to push those limits," said Lancair President Joe Bartels. "However, we get a lot of requests from potential customers for an airplane that delivers what people expect of a Lancair kit aircraft, but at a lower price. The fixed gear Legacy is our response to those requests."

Lancair didn't sacrifice performance to hit a price point, however. Fitted with a 200 horsepower Lycoming IO 360 A1B6 powerplant, the Legacy FG upholds Lancair's performance reputation with a cruise of over 200 mph and a range of more than 1,300 statute miles.

"People who fly the fixed gear Legacy will immediately realize that we've preserved the flying characteristics that have made the retractable gear airplane so popular," said Lancair Sales Manager Kim Lorentzen. "We've specified the four cylinder Lycoming powerplant to reduce costs and maximize the builders options, but it still provides plenty of performance."

Legacy FG builders will have the option of taking advantage of Lancair's highly regarded builder assist program as well as all of the other technical assist programs that the company has in place. The builder assist program, the inherently simpler nature of the kit (no gear doors or hydraulics) and special instrument panel packages will reduce build time significantly relative to the retractable gear Legacy.

Those wishing to reduce the cost as well may take advantage of Lancair's introductory kit price of $32,900.

"The Legacy FG represents a lot of value to the builder," Bartels continued. Its performance is extremely good, it looks wonderful and yet it can be built quickly and relatively inexpensively. I think we'll see a lot of these flying around in the near future."

FMI: www.lancair.com