Two LSAs are Better Than One

Dan Pimentel

Friday, January 21, 2022 at 03:13 PM ET

Verified

Craig Fuller's ICON A5 (left) and Tecnam Astore. [Courtesy: Craig Fuller]

Key Takeaways:

Craig Fuller found that owning two Light Sport Aircraft (LSAs), an Icon A5 for recreational flying and a Tecnam Astore for cross-country, was more economical and fulfilled diverse mission needs better than a single, more expensive general aviation aircraft.
His LSA fleet provides excellent fuel economy (e.g., $30-40 per hour for fuel) and advanced avionics, demonstrating that functionality and modern features don't require sacrificing affordability.
Beyond practical flying, Fuller discovered an unexpected benefit: two-seater LSAs offer unique opportunities for quality, distraction-free one-on-one time and adventures with family members.

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After earning his private pilot certificate and flying Cessna 172s, FLYING’s owner and CEO Craig Fuller “did the math” and discovered what many buyers also learn—that it was just not possible to find one perfect airplane to serve him for every desired mission. He wanted something fun for pure recreational flying, but also something that would be a comfortable cross-country airplane with advanced avionics and an autopilot.

After a great deal of due diligence, Fuller chose the Icon A5 amphibian as his “fun” light sport airplane, and a Tecnam Astore as his cross-country LSA.