It’s rare you hear “affordable” and “aircraft” in the same sentence, but the Icon Aircraft A5 sport seaplane really is a steal at only $250,000. With 1,250 orders and its first delivery at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh aviation event last month, the two-seat plane might be entering airspace near you.
Operational from land or water, the A5 is all about convenience, with folding wings for easy transport on a trailer or storage. Although built for ease of use, the jet doesn’t skimp on design with its lavish cockpit reminiscent of a luxury vehicle.
Developed by CEO and founder Kirk Hawkins, the seaplane can fly 345 miles at up to 120 mph. Pilots only need an FAA Sport Pilot Certificate to operate the plane, and it comes with an emergency aircraft parachute.
Serial production of the A5 begins in Vacaville, California, this September.