Czech manufacturers are the leading producers of ultralight aircraft in Europe, according to the Association of Sports Aircraft Producers. Last year, the 25 Czech manufacturers built nearly 600 aircraft between them, with a value of over CZK1 billion ($46 million).
The Czech Republic, Germany, France and Italy are Europe's biggest producers of ultralights - aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 450kg (990lb) under European regulations, and 600kg under US rules. Association secretary Jaroslav Potmešil says the industry tally could rise by 50% in the next five years if Europe implements light sport aircraft (LSA) and light sport pilot regulations similar to the USA.
"The industry is working with the European Aviation Safety Agency to influence and develop an equivalent to the LSA rules for Europe, which will give a boost to the general aviation market here," says Potmešil.
Source: Flight International
