Liberty Aerospace Looking at possibly purchase the XL2 to continue my VFR and IFR training. Can get a VFR-only brand new plane for US$168k and a fully-equipped IFR edition for $188K. Positive Points: > Single, high-visibility canopy > Cessna 152-equivalent (ie, a forgiving trainer), but with updated avionics and state-of-the-art engine management control (FADEC) > Low operating costs > 2,800 TBO (800 more than most single-engine piston aircraft) > Full-IFR equipped option so I can "grow" with the plane as I currently have not gotten my VFR PPL > Delivery to Singapore possible in 2 months (versus 6-12 months for other mfgr's) > Attractive price point for a brand-new aircraft, relative to other mfgr's Negative Points: > Short range / distance > Hand-braking (no brakes on the pedals) - unclear how I will like this > Unproven track record (although Govt of Kuwait has taken a stake in Liberty so chances of failure are low) I'm scheduling to take a test-ride in an XL2 based in Kuala Lampur, M'sia next week, but would love to hear any opinions from board members who own or have flown one. Here is a link to an article on the Liberty in Plane & Pilot Mag: Plane & Pilot Magazine - Liberty XL2 | PlaneAndPilotMag.com Thanks in advance.
