All The Fun Of The Spiffy Classic With Brand New Parts!

Luscombe-Silvaire Aircraft Company debuted their brand new LSA-8 at AOPA Expo 2006 in Palm Springs, CA this week.

The company completed work on the prototype close to three weeks ago -- company pilots are flying it and it's for sale. Luscombe-Silvaire intends to produce 15-20 aircraft within the next year, with plans to ramp up production to 150 per year within 18 months.

Against the going trend for upstart manufacturers, the company has not accepted any deposits from prospective buyers, but they do maintain a list of around 1000 “very interested” potential customers.

Company president John Dearden says, “We didn't want to start taking orders and deposits from people until we had aircraft coming off the line. We actually turned down deposits, because we felt it was the right thing to do. All too often over the years, people have made deposits and not received an aircraft, and they have became cautious... with good reason.”

Powered by new production Continental O-200 engines, the LSA-8 cruises at 120 mph at sea level, climbs at 900 feet per minute and stalls at 44 mph with full flaps.

As owner of the 8 Series type-certificate, Luscombe-Silvaire will also provide support and parts for older Luscombes.

With a storied 60-year history in aviation, the newly manufactured LSA-8 should appeal to fans of classic aircraft who want to avoid the pitfalls of owning an antique. “We think it will appeal to folks who want something made in America -- that’s built and supported in the USA” says Dearden.

Pricing for the LSA-8 starts at $90,000.

FMI: www.luscombe-silvaire.com