Aircraft overview

The Atec Zephyr is a Czech built, two seat light sport and ultralight aircraft produced by ATEC, a manufacturer based at Libice nad Cidlinou. The design appeared in the 1990s and established ATEC in the composite recreational aircraft market before later models such as the Faeta. It is a low wing, single engine aircraft intended for private touring, training in suitable regulatory categories and economical cross country flying. Its importance for used buyers is its combination of composite construction, efficient Rotax power and a relatively mature service history within the European ultralight fleet.

Performance & specifications

The Atec Zephyr is normally found with a Rotax 912 series engine, most commonly the 80 hp Rotax 912 UL or the 100 hp Rotax 912 ULS, driving a fixed or ground adjustable propeller. Published performance depends on weight category, propeller and landing gear configuration, but typical cruise figures are in the region of 100 to 115 knots. Range is commonly quoted at roughly 400 to 500 nautical miles when fitted with standard fuel capacity and operated at economical cruise settings. Maximum operating weights are usually aligned with European ultralight limits, including 450 kg or 472.5 kg with a ballistic parachute where applicable, so useful load must be checked aircraft by aircraft. Service ceiling figures are typically published around the mid teens in feet.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin has side by side seating under a clear canopy, with dual controls on most examples. It is compact by certified touring aircraft standards, but offers good visibility and simple systems access typical of the class. Early aircraft often have conventional analog flight instruments, engine monitoring for the Rotax installation, VHF radio and transponder. Many used examples have been modernized with light sport EFIS equipment from suppliers such as Dynon, MGL, Kanardia or Garmin portable and panel mounted units. Buyers should not expect factory integrated suites such as Garmin Perspective or G1000, which are associated with larger certified aircraft.

Buying & value

On the used market, the Atec Zephyr is positioned as an economical European composite ultralight rather than a high end certified aircraft. Inspection should focus on composite condition, canopy fit, control system play, landing gear attachments, fuel system condition, propeller history and full Rotax maintenance records, including gearbox, carburetor and rubber component intervals. Confirm the exact national registration category, maximum permitted weight, installed parachute status and any avionics or engine upgrades. Later Zephyr 2000 examples, 100 hp engines, documented ballistic recovery systems and modern EFIS panels generally support stronger values.