For the third year running the UK has celebrated the de-regulated flying sector under the SSDR (Single Seat DeRegulated) rules of the CAA. Compared to the FAA 103 rules, the aircraft have a bit more flexibility, with MTOW set at 300kg (660lbs), and a stall of less than 35kts. There are no fuel nor speed restrictions but you do need a licence to fly one.
Several SSDR aircraft have managed to fit the Rotax 582 as an option, such as the Merlin ‘Cessna on a diet’ on show. However, many engine are filling the gap left by Rotax in the 50hp and less range, such as the Hirth, Polini, Radne Raket (being used on a twin engine concept aircraft), Rotron Wankel engine, and a range of modified and re-drive engines including VW and Briggs and Stratton. Many folks continue to wish for another Rotax 503 as a power plant, and one wonders if Rotax will revisit this power-range with SSDR and related categories experiencing renewed growth at this time. Skydrive UK continues to hold stock of new Rotax 447 engines from the last production run at Rotax a few years ago.
It was particularly interesting to watch a classic aircraft fly under the power of an old Robin engine on a Pterodactyl ultralight machine. Also at the event, the Belite range of aircraft were introduced to the market in the UK for the first time by Patricia Mawuli Porter of Metal Seagulls. She hinted that they may consider trying the Rotax 582 as an option on a Belite SkyDock in the future.
When it comes to innovation, the lighter end of the aviation market is always surprising!
