French start-up manufacturer Lisa Airplanes has flown its amphibious ultra-light Akoya for the first time from its base in Chambéry in the east of the country. The two-seat aircraft is powered by a single tail-mounted 100hp (0.745kW) Rotax piston engine is said to be the first aircraft designed to "operate from land, water and snow". Priced at between €200,000 ($280,000) and €300,000, the Akoya has a removable folding wing, integral safety parachute, range of 1,500km (810nm), maximum cruise speed of 160kt (300km/h) and maximum take-off weight of 495kg (1,090lb). Certification and first deliveries are scheduled in around 16 months.
Source: Flight International
