The Industry Continues to be Rocked By Some Questionable Operations

Recent investigations and a great deal of data has resulted in ANN’s SportPlane Resource Guide’s report card system having to deal with new and worrisome reports on a number of companies.  

Evidence and data received from customers of the Czech-based Orlican SportPlane operation has resulted in a ‘Not Recommended’ rating for the convoluted troubles documented by at least one owner who has been trying to get his aircraft for nearly two years. This, while also dealing with excuses, an absentee dealer that was highly recommended by the factory, some bizarre post-agreement pricing escalation for the aircraft he did not get (and reportedly won't get until he agrees to pay more than originally agreed), and then... there is another report of pricing escalation issues, as well as bad business dealings and such, from an owner who brought his bird to SnF in an attempt to sell it and “be done with it.” Our own communications with Orlican have been difficult, and often confusing, since many statements conflict with others they've made previously... And then, they started to get harassing... sigh. 

We continue to see no progress with the despicable Rotor X debacle and despite promises that things will get better... nothing has happened... as usual... This program carries a “Not Recommended” Rating and we see little possibility of a resolution at this point, and recommend all affected parties reach out to law enforcement ASAP. 

The Brazillian-based SeaMax amphibian operation owes a lot of money to people (as well as airplanes) and is not responding to inquiries... also earning an extended “Not Recommended” rating. 

TL Sport Aircraft, despite repping some decent airplanes, has worried us about some of their business  practices, and earned an “Advise Caution” for the moment. 

The otherwise outstanding SeaRey amphib (really great airplane) operation has shut its doors, and despite rumors of an impending second wind, owners are still without proper support... earning an “Advise Caution” rating. 

We have reported on the Van's Aircraft situation at length and the topic certainly deserves more examination... and while this is a case where no one seems to have been trying to screw anyone, per se... an "Advise Caution" warning seems proper. 

Rainbow SkyReach pulled the rug out from under their customers in announcing that they would be ceasing production of the aircraft at the start of SUN n FUN, but supposedly will still be supplying parts. However; the US distributor is unusually dedicated to supporting their clients and seems able to fill in where we would otherwise be concerned about the South African manufacturer. We can't recommend a new aircraft purchase (if there are any to be had), per se, but we do have high regards for the US operator, AeroSport LLC, and trust them to do what must be done to support the fleet -- to the best of their ability. Still...be aware of the forgoing. 

We are documenting reported issues with Sport Copter International, an Oregon gyroplane manufacturer, and will have an extensive report shortly... but the news is undoubtedly troublesome, complex, and substantial. We are unable to recommend this company for the moment. 

There are more to be added to the list and the situation worries us all greatly here at ANN and the SportPlane Resource Guide... but we'll have more data on that in an upcoming 'Barnstorming' planned for later this week. 

Yes... More to come... because you all deserve honest, albeit somewhat difficult, information. 

FMI: www.sportplane.com