Rotax Engine Guru Active In ASTM Committee on LSA

Awards abound at Oshkosh. But only one honors outstanding leaders in the light aircraft community.  

Monday the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association (LAMA) honored Rotax’ Eric Tucker with its 16th President’s Award that recognizes outstanding leaders in the light aircraft community.

"Eric Tucker exemplifies the highest level of integrity when it comes to aviation safety," said LAMA President Tom Gunnarson. "For over 25 years, Eric has quietly built a legacy of quality product support and service in the industry, educating mechanics and operators on the safe operation, maintenance, and repair of what is now the most popular modern light aviation engine in the world."

Tucker began his affiliation with the light aviation industry in the early ’80s when he became an engine consultant for Ron Shetler, who convinced Rotax to produce ultralight engines.

Tucker produced the first aircraft Rotax operator’s manual under his own company, Engine Tech in British Columbia, where he also trained technicians from the ultralight companies using Rotax engines.

Working with the North American Rotax distributor, Tucker proposed a service center network that still exists. He also set up training and maintenance for Rotax’ new four-stroke 912 and 914 models, and in 1991, established the Rotax Flying and Safety Club.

More recently, Tucker has been very active in the ASTM Committee on Light Sport Aircraft, serving as vice chair and chairman of the cross-cutting subcommittee that deals with common LSA concerns, including LSA engines for this new aircraft category. He also travels the world as the preeminent expert on Rotax aviation engine operation, maintenance, and training.

The LAMA’s President’s Award was established in 1991 by LAMA co-founder Larry Burke, who both conceived the award and supplied the permanent trophy, which is displayed in EAA’s Oshkosh museum.

FMI: www.lama.bz, www.rotax-aircraft-engines.com