Top 5 Cheapest Light Sport & Light Aircraft 2022-2023 | Price & Specs

In this episode, I’m sharing my top 5 list of the cheapest light-sport and light aircraft models (brand new, used, or without piston engines), focusing on less popular companies and brands. I’ll also include their current price and technical specifications. Check out my choice for the top aircraft near the end of the video!
A light-sport aircraft is defined by the FAA as a small, low-power airplane with lower operational demands. In the US, they're often called LSAs. LSAs are a special class of ultralight aircraft built from kits or plans and can be flown by anyone with a sport pilot certificate.
🛩️ If you enjoyed this episode, give us a LIKE, write a COMMENT, and SHARE the video!
🛩️ SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell to get up-to-date with new uploads!
FOLLOW US:
/ aviationfederation
DONATE HERE:
www.buymeacoffee.com/AviationTV
OUR PLAYLIST:
• Top 5 Cheapest Private...
MORE VIDEOS:
Top 5 Tecnam Aircraft Comparison 2021-2022 | Price & Specs
• Top 5 Tecnam Aircraft ...
Top 5 4-Seater Single-Engine Piston Airplanes 2021-2022 | Price & Specs
• Top 5 4-Seater Single-...
Top 5 Ultralight & Kit Helicopters Over $100K 2021-2022 | Price & Specs
• Top 5 Most Expensive U...
EXTRA INFO:
Van’s Aircraft RV-6
© Van’s Aircraft / Jeferson Costa
Max Speed: 180 kn (340 km/h)
Max Range: 630 nmi (1,160 km)
Gross Weight: 1,600 lb (726 kg)
Passenger Capacity: up to 2 passengers
Price: US $75,500
Carbon Design FM250
© Carbon Design / Flying Machines
Max Speed: 130 kn (250 km/h)
Max Range: 650 nmi (1,200 km)
Gross Weight: 1,042 lb (472.5 kg)
Passenger Capacity: up to 2 passengers
Price: US $82,600
Direct Fly Alto
© Direct Fly
Max Speed: 132 kn (245 km/h)
Max Range: 600 nmi (1,111 km)
Gross Weight: 633 lb (287 kg)
Passenger Capacity: up to 2 people
Price: US $88,400
Dova Aircraft Skylark
© Dova Aircraft
Max Speed: 130 kn (250 km/h)
Max Range: 540 nmi (1,000 km)
Gross Weight: 1,042 lb (472.5 kg)
Passenger Capacity: up to 2 people
Price: US $95,000
TL-ULTRALIGHT Stream
© TL-ULTRALIGHT
Max Speed: 175 kn (325 km/h)
Max Range: 760 nmi (1,400 km)
Gross Weight: 1,042 lb (472.5 kg)
Passenger Capacity: up to 2 people
Price: US $98,900
OTHER VIDEOS:
10 Cheapest Light Sport Aircraft You Can Buy
• 10 Cheapest Light Spor...
10 Best Two Seat Airplanes
• 10 Best Two Seat Airpl...
5 Sport Airplanes You Can Buy For Less Than $200,000
• 5 Sport Airplanes You ...
DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed in our videos are our opinions and may not necessarily reflect those of the companies we feature.
Our content abides by the terms of Fair Use for education and commentary and the clips we feature in our editorials are owned by their respective copyright holders. The clips presented are for informational and non-commercial purposes only. For any business, media, or partnership inquiries, comment below or email: [e-mail]
#LightSportAircraft #SportAircraft #AircraftComparison #AviationFederation

[@AviationFederation]

*I hope you’re all doing fine out there! What do you think of these light sport aircraft under $100K? Which one is your top choice? Share your comments and suggestions down below! To see more informative aircraft videos, check these out:* Top 5 Tecnam Aircraft Comparison 2021-2022 | Price & Specs kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2ikaXuNaJmZnLs Top 5 4-Seater Single-Engine Piston Airplanes 2021-2022 | Price & Specs kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6jQmoxmhtyrp7s Top 5 Ultralight & Kit Helicopters Over $100K 2021-2022 | Price & Specs kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5eaeoJmeNxgnMk

[@edaycock3505]

While I've been following the TL Ultralight Stream for a while now, I have to say the Alto was very interesting. Their website shows the Alto NG which can be fitted with the Rotax 912iS engine. That would be a very appealing airplane! Love you channel! 🙂

[@jeffz2111]

The RV 6 has been replaced with the RV 7. Neither would meet the current LSA specs. The RV 12 is Vans LSA kit.

[@mikeryan6277]

In the U.S. max speed for Light Sport is 120 knots and max weight is 1320 lbs so given the specs you stated none of these planes qualify under Light Sport Rules, at least in the U.S.

[@electricaviationchannelvid7863]

If you put a placard with the max allowed speed of 120 then its good to go...

[@mikeryan6277]

@@electricaviationchannelvid7863 interesting, I’m not up on all the regs but I thought that would only be the case if you were the builder, but if it had a POH with a posted TAS then that was gospel.

[@tCCZebra70]

@@electricaviationchannelvid7863 You can placard the weight in most cases, but you cannot simply placard the airspeed. Airspeed is maximum cruise performance at standard atmosphere in level flight (maximum speed or VNE has no actual bearing on the category). There are a few aircraft (Jabiru J230SP, J250, J230D)that get away with putting a climb pitch in the prop to keep the cruise speed at or below 120 knots which is legal. Adjusting the pitch of the prop easily puts them out of the LSA category if it were ever re-checked which really doesn't happen. So, #1 (TL-Ultralight) and #5 (RV-6) are not in the LSA category in the US (but might be next year as the rules are being updated). Interestingly, the RV-12 (red and white low wing carrying the camera) which is prominently shown on your intro/outro is the LSA that I fly and it is under $100,000 USD as a kit. Well over $100,000 if factory built as an SLSA.

[@jasonkoiter9555]

Also, all Light Sport aircraft in the US have to have fixed gear, so the TL doesn’t qualify for LSA.

[@mikeryan6277]

True but if that posted TAS is higher then 120 Kts the not LSA

[@720spinna]

They're all awesome! Thank you for opening up a whole new list of amazing plane ideas for me!!!

[@woody4041]

Thank you for the information. Did not know there were new aircraft under $100K.

[@johnnawrocki6534]

I believe you did a very good job laying out the information I enjoyed it

[@kirkjones9639]

Nice list! Although I am more inclined towards the STOL aircraft in the LSA category. The Highlander (currently own) and the Chinook2 are a couple of good examples. I'm a bit surprised those type of aircraft, aren't on your list. Nothing wrong with a preference for low wing aircraft. It just seemed curious.

[@youthfulambitionya]

Awesome compilation of Sport Aircraft.

[@coolheeling]

Awesome compilation and useful on aircraft never heard of Enjoyed the video as well 👍

[@AviationFederation]

We're glad you enjoyed the video and found the information useful! Do you have any specific aircraft or topics you'd like us to cover in future videos? Feel free to let us know!

[@survivalhealthandhealingtv5651]

LOVE YOUR CHANNEL!

[@wavewaker2]

Thanks, helpful in picking up plane, hoping more in depth info or reviews on each plane.

[@albertlanglois168]

Enjoyed...quite thorough and interesting

[@AviationFederation]

Glad you think so!

[@sandyshoals7565]

Loved them ALL!!!

[@bwuepper439]

I would think efficiency would include fuel efficiency. So, perhaps include the usable fuel total and some indication of fuel burn at max speed. Thanks for the video.

[@johnk4145]

I like the list however; based on your commentary / performance specifications, I don't think all of these qualify as LSA.

[@ericsordillon2716]

Super vidéo....! Thanks you for posting......!

[@AviationFederation]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@chrispetty6871]

I like the TL due to the trailing link landing gear. Which you neglected to mention. I think that would be a good selling point. They provide smoother landings.

[@aldohattonduran5227]

Excelente video 👌 ty

[@AviationFederation]

We're glad you found the video enjoyable. Is there a specific aspect of aviation or an aircraft you'd like to learn more about in future videos, or any questions you have about the content we create?

[@erl2nd]

Thank you for the inspiration! I am interested in Cub, Kodiak, Zenith short take off landing 31" bush LG, Can't help my Champaign Tast and hopps and barley budget though...

[@MrDKPro]

#1 is great 👍 Great to have one🤘

Thank you for this great summary. Is there a specific school you would recommend for these devices?

[@AviationFederation]

You're welcome! As for schools, it depends on your location. Local flight schools often provide training for light sport aircraft. For affordable options, checking with local flying clubs might be a good start. Do you have a specific region in mind for training, or any other preferences?

[@itinensanzen]

Love your aircaft list. The TL Stream would be my choice here. The JMB VL-3 is a very efficient plane. But i love the Shark Aero UL and the Black Shape Prime. The Zenith CH650, Risen Ultralight are also good ones. If money was no subject, a Pipistrel Sinus Flex max woul fit the bill with greater advantage: it can glide and soar for hours without engines, just by using thermals, waves and ridge soaring.

[@AviationFederation]

Those are interesting choices! Great suggestions for future content too. The Pipistrel, of course, is in a league of its own. Thanks for watching!

[@Fatamorgana7ifly]

JMB VL-3 unfortunately have had several crashes and fatalities due to design issues that have caused to plan to fall out of the sky in stalls where the doomed pilot have had no chance to do effective anti stall manouvers. I still have not seen any changes from the factory that has made this know issue less dangerous.

[@itinensanzen]

@@Fatamorgana7ifly Oh Mikael, thats so sad cuz it was a beautiful airplane. I think i will have to stay with the long proven Pipistrel Sinus...

[@jaimechavez2573]

You know aircrafts about!!! I flew a VL3 was amazing!!!

[@stevestevens9046]

I like the zenith ch650..a good plane with a decent price and they are located in Missouri witch is where I live

[@dragansarafiloski5744]

Very nice video!

[@AviationFederation]

Thank you!

[@philippayn588]

Great choice, thanks.

[@AviationFederation]

Thanks for watching!

[@rufusmclean9770]

really nice...are they all available in the USA?

[@randulajayaneththi6309]

Why the shark Ero model hasn't added?

[@harryciehma419]

nice content...do you a collection of LSA under 50 grand USD. and share also the maintenanca cost imformation.

[@pilotrobroy]

Watching the RV-6 aerobatics, what are the parachute requirements?

[@unkameatgoodbar2315]

Please do more vids on lsa aircraft….enjoyed it he videos

[@AviationFederation]

Thank you for watching!

[@vinnybillisi3267]

Great article- 👍

[@AviationFederation]

Thanks!

[@robertjackson1407]

Thank you 😊

[@Shadow0fd3ath24]

you can get enclosed cabin ultralight style of builds that are LSA and get them NICE for sub $20k all day long used. $85k to start in this video is nuts!

[@j.c.almazan1006]

What is you opinion on the Bristell

[@gs9826]

a very interesting video, although prices are a bit hight

[@user-qe4hj7pe5x]

Pretty planes are they delivered assembled to southern ma. Plymouth airport?

[@fatihgul77]

Last one is looks beautiful

[@michaelmitchell2526]

makes me waant to learn to fly even more

[@ammarbarazi3890]

You need to inform us where each and every plane is made suchas usa Germany,Czech and so on ill be waiting for updates happy landings and blue skies

[@BlackPantherStudios]

Beautiful ❤️ aircraft

[@user-qe4hj7pe5x]

Does the price include the delivery and assembly?

[@harryagrotis326]

Are these homebuilt or ready factory produced airplanes ??? Other than the RV6 I have never heard of any of them. Are they available in the us???

[@AlessioColantonio]

I’m the owner of a Skylark. And yes it can be exported to the US. Get in touch if you want to know more about the plane.

[@willwagner7222]

awsome I want one

[@MSPhysicsForFun]

very nice light airplane.

[@brucehoffmann2126]

Is there a 2-seat ultralight aircraft that sells for $10,000 or less? Any videos on cheap 2 seat ultras would definitely peak my interest?

[@bladi-senpai9398]

I haven’t seen a 2 seater but a couple one seater under 10k yes.

[@homeairplane]

Very nice Aircraft

[@marchollywood]

I would like to have them for sale in South America, just in case you have some good connections on the providers. Thank you.

[@wernerweitz2429]

Hi I like number 1 aircraft and thanks you

[@wernerweitz2429]

Did is nice

[@jernejrihar1873]

Ver Nice planes

[@rodneyskennedy3163]

The TL is my pick.

[@mwcar416]

Are you sure RV-6 is an LSA aircraft I thought the only LSA Van's had was the RV 12.

[@spikekavalench]

The Stream sure looks like the Shark UL.

[@produitsforestiergrison4704]

What did we have in canada ?

[@rodneyskennedy3163]

It’s the Dova skylark for me.

[@masoodkabir174]

Good commentary,and good planes.But some people say that these small planes are less safer than bigger planes.Although balastic parachute system is working,but the question rises of life safety,please guide,thanks and best wishes.

[@AviationFederation]

Good points raised. Thank you for watching and the nice comments!

[@scotttoomey7347]

Number 2 is my fav.

[@kenmarchbanks4301]

Maybe if you find one someone screwed up during the build it will be under 100k. Right now I don’t think you can buy the parts for 100k.

[@michaelwiggins3663]

I was really interested in this video but as far as I can tell most if not all of these fail to meet US LSA requirements and I can't find any of them ready to fly for under $100k. Kit price without engine maybe.

[@rudolphrichardson7607]

Are all the prices for just kits ?

[@jblee344]

They have to be, no way in heaven, earth, or hell that any of these come assembled ready to fly for under 100k.

[@goofnoff2672]

Have you done an evaluation on canard aircraft. The cozy, the long easy, and so on? They are faster and cheaper and more efficient, and cheaper than your video states. Check it out.

[@kennethheisejr.8659]

I don't think any of these fit the ultralight aircraft regulations in the US which have a weight limit of 254 lbs and a max. speed of 55 knots. However, a light sport aircraft can be up to 1320 lbs. i was a little confused by your wording...

[@prasetyo-edi]

Thanks for the valuable information 👍

[@AviationFederation]

Thank you for watching!

[@johnpavone]

The US distributor of the TL-Ultralight Stream quoted me a price of $220k! Not close to $100k

[@s4logisticsinc425]

Not even close!

[@DanFrederiksen]

yeah much of this video is pure fiction :)

[@dmpyron2]

The RV6 is far from a LSA. The other aircraft are so attractive but not readily available in the US

[@AviationFederation]

You're absolutely right, the RV-6 doesn't fall under the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) category due to its characteristics. Availability can be a factor, and certain attractive aircraft may have limited presence in the US. Do you have a favorite among these aircraft that you wish were more accessible in the US, or do you have any aviation plans beyond the RV-6?

[@defaviator2769]

Viper SD4! 💪✈️

[@ronjennings6251]

The creators of this video should understand that under US law, that the maximum speed that a Light Sport Aircraft is capable of is not to exceed 120 knots ( 138 mph ) Most on your list is ineligible to be considered that.

[@electricaviationchannelvid7863]

If you put a placard with the max allowed speed of 120 then its good to go...

[@rooseveltdumornay4954]

They look awesome. Great for recreational flying

[@iambob7484]

Does the faa have air cops with radar guns to check your speed?👮‍♀

[@paulom7849]

Any of them are full IFR?

[@retailmsc]

category is Sport plans, although most do not fit. and no sport plane needs IFR because it is illegal to fly in anything but VFR conditions.

[@jjjww975]

Sonex-B is $42,000 2 place all metal LSA

[@musoseven8218]

Some lovely aircraft - I'd better start selling off body parts though🤔😳😳😲😄😄👍✌️

[@itsjavaman]

Why are they converting knots to km if they are using USD?

[@gusrodriguez6102]

Quisiera tener un BF109E

[@kahhowong3417]

The eclipsing of Western Europe Trophy Automobile Industry by the upcoming Eurasian Asiatic People Carrier automobile industry.

[@fieeedahusssain8407]

Dova Skylark 😍😍😍

[@ramonmedina1974]

The TL-Ultralight Stream looks sexy!

[@AeroSportLLC]

Unfortunately this video doesn’t provide accurate information. It’s a shame because it’s well produced. It would have been great to actually show aircraft that are truly considered Light Sport in the United States. Pricing is also inaccurate. The Stream is nowhere near under US$100,000 although as a Dealer of the TL Stream in the U.S. we love that it made #1 spot, but it’s not a Light Sport Aircraft. One of the only Light Sport Aircraft that is either SLSA or available as a Kit is the #BushCat Light Sport Aircraft. That one actually is affordable at US$87,500 ready-to-fly with standard basic configuration. It’s about one of the only LSA’s still considered affordable anymore.

[@AviationFederation]

Thank you so much for the kind corrections. This video is due for an update/correction. We are fans of TL-ULTRALIGHT in this channel. We'll feature more of it soon.

[@djdavino111]

correct, i always disappointed when i look the real prices. Otherwise i already buy one

[@Youngmessi01]

I enjoyed it 😂😂😂 even the lightest planes are really expensive

[@AviationFederation]

Yes, the cost of an aircraft is influenced by various factors such as its size, capabilities, technology, and brand reputation. These factors contribute to the overall price tag of owning an aircraft. However, many aviation enthusiasts and professionals find the experience of flying and owning an aircraft to be worth the investment!

[@Youngmessi01]

@@AviationFederation yes that's true and of course it's worth the money

[@gerryellis3847]

You do not seem to list the engines

[@nikiimala]

I am looking aircraft within 30 to 40000 dollar is it possible

[@DanFrederiksen]

LSA and kit build should not be confused. Most LSAs are factory built. Essentially all the European ones are factory built afaik. Also maybe write the specs on the screen. And the UL price was quite wrong.

[@lawrencekleyn3914]

from US dollars to other currencies a bit expensive for microlight

[@FlyingtheBigTireCruzer]

The Vans RV-6 is NOT an LSA

[@joaocavalcanti7721]

Good job

[@stevenstyles7602]

It’s a pity no1 is a tandem.

[@ginocbottinomd8822]

What, no high wing planes?

[@Beibash86]

It's only a kit prices. + Add engine 35k + Build assist 60-80k + Paint 5-10k + Electronics and avionics 50k + Shipping 3-5k Sum this all up)))😩😩😩

[@renebrandt3834]

The TL Stream isn’t under 100K

[@fngonzo]

I love the VL-3 Evolution, but it would not make this list. That FM250 Vampire looks like a nice aircraft.

[@AviationFederation]

Interesting aircraft!

[@fight2flyphoto]

Wow, so much inaccuracy...

[@LittleManFlying]

"...with a composite design achieving sleek curves while retaining excellent dynamic features. This makes it perfectly maneuverable and energy efficient..." Sorry, commercial pilot and licensed aircraft mechanic here. You all understand that this is jiberish, right? 😂

[@hordi1ful]

It also makes it 2x more expensive )))))))))))))))))

[@rolandhayet5457]

Bonjour

[@thehillbillyengineer3795]

VL3 915 turbo

[@thehillbillyengineer3795]

Uh, nvm... went immediately to channel vidy's... Ty : ) O7

[@survivalhealthandhealingtv5651]

Are you on Telegram? I just finished Ground School!

[@lynnkramer1211]

180 knots is not LSA. LSA is quite different in Europe than the USA. This plane would not qualify because they are too fast. Many limits apply to what airframes are considered “light sport.” Primarily, they can only have two seats, cannot weigh more than about 1,300 pounds at takeoff, and cannot fly more than 120 knots.

[@dadbain]

A lot misinformation in this presentation. In the USofA an ultralight aircraft has a maximum empty weight of 254 lbs, anyone out there, you may correct me if I'm wrong.

[@stanislawfaron7810]

👍

[@SM-nm1oc]

Here is my opinion of the best 5 aeroplanes. 1- RV7 2- RV 6 3- RV12 4- RV 8 5 RV14 Don’t argue with me. Proof of the pudding is the number of RV’s roaming the skies.

[@retailmsc]

Vans total plans 10,000 Cessna 150+152 = over 30,000

[@philipritson8821]

No love for the RV9?

[@toose70]

RV6 doesn’t fit in the light sport category

[@arthurrobey7177]

It depends. If the planet-wide die off from the clot shot is successful, that will be deflationary as the wealth of the planet is transferred into fewer and fewer hands. In such a scenario av-gas will be easily available and such offerings ubiquitous. Towards the other end of the scale solar powered gliders will the playthings of wealthy playboys. And then we must not forget the implications of the SAFIRE experiment, of cause.

[@customerservicegroup2817]

Why isn't the name of this video "Top 5 light sport aircraft under $100K"? The cheapest aircraft on this list is not attainable for most people. I actually clicked on this video to learn about the most affordable aircraft available.

[@davidpierce9330]

Given half these aircraft don't fit in the LSA category and can't be flown by sport pilots, you should really do a bit more research before posting videos.....the stream also is way over the price you suggest FYI

[@robertgantry2118]

Of course the Risen isn't under $100,000 dollars. But for $150,000 you can have a really nice airplane which has a range of over 1,000 miles on 22 US gallons of regular automotive gasoline.

[@hordi1ful]

It fly slow, so for the same distance you have to overhaul an Engine 2-3 times more than other which consumes 2x of the fuel. So...

[@robertgantry2118]

@@hordi1ful - It cruises at 150 kts. Top speed 185 kts. Not that your argument actually makes any sense....