It's interesting that Larry Hayes's Legacy FG cruised through certification.  His aircraft never left the build shop.  Mike DeHate was the DAR.  We all know Mike has a long-standing relationship with Lancair.  Larry said the MIDO representative toured the Lancair build shop.  The MIDO representative was satisfied with the aircraft, Mike's DAR inspection, and the work done at the build shop.  That should be the same MIDO office that put the hammer down on the Epic certification.

 

Granted a Legacy FG is a much simpler aircraft than other Lancairs or the Epic.  Maybe that was a factor.  So is the real issue complexity or "major portion"?

 

Lancair's kits are on the approved list, no doubt that helps.  But, to me, that confirms that Lancair is working with the FAA and Lancair is conducting business in a way that's acceptable to the local FAA officials.  Is Lancair crossing the line?  We have opinions on both sides of the issue.  But the one that really matters is the FAA's opinion and they seem to be satisfied that Lancair is within the spirit and letter of the rules.

 

Mike Easley