I have gotten a "10%" number from Lancair on my ES.  I'm sure that was unofficial.

 

Correct me if I'm wrong, but with an experimental, you can set your weight, test at that weight and you're fine.  Do DARs have the authority to tell you your weight is too high?  My DAR approved my increase of 400 lbs. over the Lancair number without even mentioning it to me.  Even if the DAR sets the weight lower that you like, you can put the plane back into testing after the phase 1 testing, add the weight, and re-certify at the higher weight without involving a DAR.  Modifications don't require the DAR signoff.

 

I'm not saying it's necessarily safe, but it's legal!

 

Mike Easley

Colorado Springs

ES