The FAA has granted Czech Aircraft Works an exemption for certification of the amphibious Mermaid Light Sport. The exemption means that the Mermaid now has full S-LSA approval, including permission for operation of its retractable gear, in flight, by a properly trained sport pilot. The FAA exemption covers only the Mermaid and no other amphibious LSA designs.
The first conforming Mermaid to receive certification has the upgraded 120 hp Jabiru engine. Company officials say mass production of the Mermaid now will begin.