Some flights remind you why aviation is so much fun.
My first flight in a VL3 was one of them.
Until recently, I didn’t know much about the VL3. Then my friend and fellow YouTuber Pilot Steve introduced me to his and I quickly realized this is not your typical light sport airplane.
The VL3 is factory-built and certified in Europe. However, in the U.S., this one operates as an Experimental Exhibition aircraft. With MOSAIC coming, that may change soon.
Big Performance. Small Airplane.
This aircraft is powered by a Rotax 916iS putting out 160 horsepower. The numbers are impressive:
- Climb rate: 2,600 feet per minute
- Cruise: nearly 200 knots true
- Short-field capability
- Surprisingly low fuel burn
On takeoff, it jumps off the runway. In cruise, we were seeing 150 knots indicated while burning roughly 7 gallons per hour. That kind of efficiency gets your attention.
Inside, the cockpit feels modern and clean. This Rotax is FADEC-controlled with no mixture knob. Just throttle, prop, and trim.
The avionics? The latest Garmin glass:
- Dual G3X touchscreens
- GTN 750 NXi
- GFC 700 autopilot
It’s a lightweight sport aircraft with a seriously capable panel.
And yes the parachute system comes standard.
The Rotax “Burp”
One thing I had never done before? “Burping” the engine.
Before checking oil, you slowly rotate the prop until you hear a distinct burp sound. That confirms oil circulation before reading the level. It’s different and a little funny the first time. If you’re curious what high speed and low fuel burn feels like in a sleek European sport aircraft, you’ll want to see this one.
Watch the full flight and come along for the ride.