ICON 100: A5 Limited Edition Recreational Aircraft

I’ve written several times on various aircraft that have caught my attention. Each time, I say it’s my favorite aircraft of all time. The ICON 100 – A5 Limited may not be my favorite but it is still unique and worthy enough to briefly write about.

Besides its sexy and sleek design, the recreational aircraft stands out because it is capable of taking off and landing on both land and water. ICON first introduced the aircraft back in 2008 and was to be in production mode later that year. However, various modifications set the launch back by several years and it is now finally ready to be produced next year (2012).

143 orders alone for the aircraft were taken over the week-long 2011 EAA AirVenture show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin in August 2011. The aircraft has been classified as a Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) by the FAA and is specifically designed for recreational purposes. The ICON 100 A5 is capable of speeds of up to 105 knots (120 mph) and offers room for a pilot and one passenger. The ICON 100 A5 will be powered by a 100 horsepower Rotax 912 ULS engine and features folding wings. All the ICON 100 A5’s will feature retractable landing gear for flying off land and water. The airframe of the aircraft is constructed out of carbon fiber for strength and saves on weight.

For those who are in an extreme rush to get their hands on this aircraft will have an opportunity to purchase a limited edition ICON 100 A5. ICON requires standard customers to deposit an initial $5,000 but the first 100 customers who are willing to deposit $100,000 will get an aircraft that will feature a custom pearl white paint job with high-gloss accents in metallic silver, black, and red. The limited ICON A5 will also feature a custom interior with marine-grade materials that are resistant to heat, water, and salt.

The ICON 100 A5 will set you back a cool $139,000 which is actually not too bad. Not that I can afford it but I’m just saying. Seems like a pretty good deal for a personal aircraft which has safety in mind and is low maintenance. For more details, check out ICON Aircraft.