The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted Icon Aircraft’s A5 amphibious airframe type certification in the primary category, opening avenues for global sales and registrations outside the USA. Icon Aircraft is now among a select group of light sport aircraft manufacturers meeting FAA certification standards, enabling the A5 to be sold and registered internationally.
With this designation, Icon Aircraft can leverage reciprocal agreements between the FAA and aviation authorities worldwide, including those in Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America. The California-based company sees this achievement as an opportunity to expand its market potential globally, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and design excellence.
Jerry Meyer, CEO of Icon Aircraft, expressed confidence that the A5’s unique blend of performance, safety, and versatility will capture the interest of new customers and enthusiasts as the company extends its sales and marketing presence beyond the US. Meyer had previously indicated expectations that a significant portion of sales, around 25-30%, would come from international markets once the certification was secured.
The A5, often dubbed a “sports car with wings,” falls under the light sport aircraft category in the USA. However, some countries, including Canada, lack this specific category. The FAA defines a light sport aircraft as a single-engine aircraft with a maximum airspeed of 120 knots, no more than two seats, and, for water operation, a maximum take-off weight of 650 kg. The Icon A5 meets these criteria but slightly exceeds the weight restriction with a maximum take-off weight of 685 kg, for which the company secured a weight waiver from the FAA.
Obtaining full certification in the FAA’s primary category, a three-year effort, will facilitate certification processes in other jurisdictions. Icon Aircraft has reported sales of 210 airframes, and over the past year, it has established distribution partnerships in 13 countries, including South Korea, Japan, the Dominican Republic, and Montenegro.
