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Nope - "Cheap" in this instance simply means inexpensive. "Good, Fast, Cheap" rolls off the tongue better than "Exceptional, Expeditious, Inexpensive".

The builders of this aircraft were obviously aiming for a low price point and have succeeded. My question is what did they leave out to satisfy the "Cheap" prerogative?

From my point-of-view, and judging strictly by the video I saw on-line, it's no Cessna 150.

Can "It be done?" Well, that depends upon the definition of "It". If "It" is a Cessna 150 then the answer is "No". The economics are such that a brand-new Cessna 150 cannot be built for less than $100k.

But if "It" is a two-place enclosed-cockpit airplane that meets the same basic performance numbers of a Cessna 150, then the answer is barely a "Yes."

Speaking for myself, a fabric covered aircraft would not work for me (no hangar available). And loose-fitting fabric doors and vinyl side-windows imply a level of cost-cutting that doesn't inspire confidence in its strength, durability or longevity. Plus, the less adventurous of my passengers would simply balk at getting in such a seemingly flimsy aircraft. The X-Air appears to be something that would fit in along with it's price - somewhere between an ultralight and a Cessna 162.

I could be all wrong about this - I'd be very curious to hear of a club-member's first-hand impression, both of the build- and flying-qualities.

I just slapped together a little performance chart comparing the Cessna 150, 162 and X-Air LS using manufacturer numbers. The 'better numbers" being highlighted.

Bill
Grants Pass, Oregon

I saw one of those at the Madras fly-in last summer. Not being in the market for an airplane, I didn't look it over very carefully, but nothing jumped out as being schlocky. I thought the use of sail fabric for the covering was clever. The guy I talked to was personable and straightforward, and said he'd be more than glad to give a demonstration flight, even if I'm not currently in the market for a new plane. If I have some time to kill the next time I'm over at Bend I just might take him up on it.

Roy