Aircraft overview

The Blackshape Prime BS100 is a two seat, tandem, low wing light sport aircraft from Blackshape Aircraft of Monopoli, Italy. Unveiled in the early 2010s, with customer aircraft appearing from around 2012, it was developed as a high performance composite trainer and private touring aircraft within the European ultralight and light sport segment. Its relevance in the used market comes from an unusual mix for the category: carbon fiber construction, retractable landing gear on many examples, fighter style tandem seating and efficient Rotax power.

Performance & specifications

The Prime BS100 is typically powered by the 100 hp Rotax 912 ULS four cylinder engine, driving a constant speed or ground adjustable propeller depending on configuration and national approval. Published performance for the type commonly places maximum cruise in the region of 140 to 150 knots, with economical cruise lower than that. Range is often quoted at roughly 600 to 700 nautical miles, depending on fuel fit, power setting, payload and reserves. Maximum operating altitude is commonly listed around 15,000 feet. In European ultralight form, maximum takeoff weight is usually 600 kg, giving useful load that is sensitive to equipment, parachute installation, paint and avionics choices.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin uses tandem seating under a clear canopy, with the pilot normally seated in front and a passenger or instructor behind. Visibility is a defining feature, but buyers should assess canopy condition, ventilation, seat fit and baggage practicality, as the aircraft is compact. Instrument panels vary substantially across production years and owner upgrades. Many aircraft use modern glass avionics such as Dynon SkyView or Garmin units, often combined with VHF radio, transponder, engine monitoring and GPS navigation. Garmin Perspective and G1000 suites are not typical factory fits for the Blackshape Prime BS100.

Buying & value

Used Blackshape Prime BS100 aircraft tend to sit above basic ultralights and light sport aircraft, but below certified touring aircraft with comparable cruise speeds. Condition and paperwork matter more than headline speed. Buyers should review national registration category, maintenance history, Rotax service compliance, propeller logs, landing gear rigging, brake condition and composite structure inspections. Check for parachute system age if installed, avionics software status and any operating limitations tied to local approval. Variations include fixed or retractable gear configurations in some markets, different propeller installations, ballistic parachute options and substantial avionics upgrades. The strongest examples are those with complete records, conservative operating history and clear conformity to the rules of the country where they will be flown.