I have spent many years studying past, present and future concept to reduce the cost of light aircraft. Materials, labor, instruments, avionics, equipment, certification, insurance, fuel, maintenance, hangarage and overhead are all part of the equations. I am talking about factory-built aircraft here, but the rationale applies to kits as well.
One sticking point, however, is always powerplant cost. I am only talking about new engines certified under any recognized standard: FAR 33, JAR 22, LSA ASTM, etc. As far as I can tell, the least expensive certified aircraft engine available are the 80hp Rotax 912 A/F. The Continental O-200-D is attractive and becoming more common thanks to the Cessna C162 Skycatcher. The Lycoming IO-233-LSA is also attractive but seems rarer than hen's teeth. Both appear be more expensive in purchase/operating/maintenance/overhaul costs than the Rotax, though I would love to see a detailed breakdown if anyone has that information.
Am I missing something? Are there any other certified aircraft engines currently available that are significantly less expensive than the Rotax 912?
Cheers,
Matthew
One sticking point, however, is always powerplant cost. I am only talking about new engines certified under any recognized standard: FAR 33, JAR 22, LSA ASTM, etc. As far as I can tell, the least expensive certified aircraft engine available are the 80hp Rotax 912 A/F. The Continental O-200-D is attractive and becoming more common thanks to the Cessna C162 Skycatcher. The Lycoming IO-233-LSA is also attractive but seems rarer than hen's teeth. Both appear be more expensive in purchase/operating/maintenance/overhaul costs than the Rotax, though I would love to see a detailed breakdown if anyone has that information.
Am I missing something? Are there any other certified aircraft engines currently available that are significantly less expensive than the Rotax 912?
Cheers,
Matthew
