The ICON A5 is an amphibious light-sport aircraft designed for recreational pilots, allowing for water landings with full 30-degree flaps. First flown in 2008, production of the aircraft began in December 2012. The plane reaches a maximum speed of 95 knots and features an angle of attack indicator along with a T-tail to ensure effective steering even when the shark fin water rudder is retracted.
This aircraft measures 23 feet in length and has folding wings, making it convenient for transportation and storage as they can fit into garages when folded. It carries a 20-gallon tank that supports both high-octane automotive gas and aviation fuel. Its instrument panel is designed for simplicity, targeting casual and novice pilots.
ICON Aircraft emphasizes the low operating costs of the A5, powered by a reliable Rotax 912 iS engine suitable for both air and water cooling. The folding wings take two minutes to unfold, offering pilots more flexibility in operations. For 2024, new features include a four-blade propeller and increased gross weight capacity.
“The ICON A5 is granted a lightweight FAA exception to operate under sport aircraft,” states the company about its carbon fiber construction that reduces overall weight while enhancing strength and heat resistance.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has given an exemption to increase the A5’s takeoff weight to accommodate its Spin-Resistant Airframe (SRA). This innovation makes it the first conventional production aircraft meeting FAA Part 23 standards for spin resistance.
The A5 is categorized as a light-sport aircraft (LSA), which generally includes small, easy-to-fly planes heavier than ultralight models but lighter than traditional general aviation aircraft. The FAA defines LSA as having a maximum gross takeoff weight of up to 1,430 lbs for seaplanes among other specifications.
ICON Aircraft highlights the STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) capabilities of the A5, making it operable from short runways or water surfaces without needing an airport. The A5 Inflatable Dock expands possibilities by enabling on-water operations.
With retractable landing gear and improved hydrodynamic performance, this amphibious plane transitions smoothly between land and water. “With the engine in the back and a low instrument panel, the A5’s panoramic canopy allows for unparalleled visibility,” according to ICON Aircraft.
Garmin’s G3X Touch flight display enhances operation ease with customizable modes including moving maps and flight planning systems. An optional two-axis autopilot adds situational awareness through advanced features like GPS navigation.
Safety remains paramount with features such as “the world’s first spin-resistant light sport aircraft,” according to Joanna McPherson from ICON Authorized Flight Instructor team. The Ballistic Recovery Systems-designed ICON Parachute System provides additional security by stabilizing the aircraft at controlled angles upon deployment during emergencies.
Overall, these elements combine to make the ICON A5 appealing to both sport enthusiasts and private pilots looking for versatile flying options without requiring traditional infrastructure.
