by Gary Wollenhaupt

Created on: February 14, 2009

The new Icon A5 amphibious airplane will revolutionize sport aviation in the United States.

The A5 takes advantage of new rules from the Federal Aviation Administration,creating a new breed of small, simple airplanes and a simplified route to a pilot's license to fly them.

In 2004, the (FAA), working closely with the Experimental Aircraft Association created an entirely new category of aircraft (Light Sport Aircraft) as well as a new category of pilot license (Sport Pilot), both aimed specifically at consumer recreational flying.

Simplified rules include flying during daylight hours in good weather from small airfields, with no need to file a flight plan.

Icon Aircraft, founded by Kirk Hawkins, an Air Force fighter pilot who flew missions over Iraq, borrows from Apple's design approach. The cockpit's curvy shapes and high-back seats look like they were snatched from a sports cars. Gauges are kept to a minimum, and a GPS unit replaces complicated navigation gear.

With its world-class team of engineers, designers, advisors, and investors, ICON is located in Southern California - home of the world's largest concentration of both aerospace and automobile design resources.

Hawkins expects the A5 to appeal to experienced pilots looking to return to the fun of flying, as well as thrill-seekers looking for a new high. It's at home on land and water, perfect for quick getaways and fishing trips.

The 100-hp engine runs on 91-octane auto gas. The wings fold back allowing owners to trailer the A5 home to keep in the garage. The plane will have a top speed of 120 mph. The landing gear can be deleted to end up with a pure seaplane.

Useful load is 430 pounds to 530 pounds, depending on optional equipment, such as manual or automatic wing folding, instruments and interior options. There's not much room for baggage with full fuel load, maybe 60 pounds or so. It's not a long-distance craft, more of a sport-bike for the sky.

A parachute is an optional safety feature to lower the plane safely to earth in case of engine failure or other problem. The airframe is made of lightweight, high-strength carbon fiber.

The Icon A5 can land and take off in about 750 feet, making it an ideal craft for hunting fishing, sight seeing, and back country exploration.

Undergoing flight trials now, the builders of the $139,000, two-seat aircraft expect it to be available in late 2010. A spot in the production sequence can be secured with a deposit.

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