Aircraft overview

The Super Petrel LS is a two seat amphibious light sport aircraft built by Scoda Aeronáutica in Brazil and marketed in several countries, including the United States, as an SLSA. It is not a conventional floatplane. The design uses a boat hull, retractable landing gear and a compact biplane layout, with the Rotax engine mounted as a pusher above the fuselage. The LS version matters in the used market because it gives buyers water and runway capability in a factory built light sport package, with simpler operating requirements than many certified amphibians.

Performance & specifications

Typical Super Petrel LS performance is in the light sport amphibian class rather than the cross country touring class. Cruise speed is commonly reported in the high 80 knot range, depending on propeller, loading and installation. Range is generally quoted at about 400 to 450 nautical miles in favorable conditions. As an amphibious SLSA, maximum takeoff weight is normally 1,430 lb. Useful load varies with equipment and empty weight, so individual aircraft records are important. Power is typically from a 100 hp Rotax 912 ULS, with some later or upgraded aircraft using Rotax fuel injected installations. Published ceiling figures vary by configuration, but buyers should verify the specific aircraft POH and weight and balance data.

Cabin & avionics

The Super Petrel LS has enclosed side by side seating for two, with good outward visibility and a cabin intended for short recreational flights rather than business travel. Entry, canopy condition, ventilation, seat fit and baggage provisions should be inspected carefully, especially on aircraft used regularly around water. Avionics are normally light sport systems, not Garmin Perspective or G1000 suites. Used examples may have analog instruments, Dynon SkyView, Garmin G3X, portable GPS equipment, VHF communication radios, transponders and ADS-B equipment depending on year and upgrade history.

Buying & value

For used buyers, the main inspection points are the hull, landing gear retraction system, water rudder system, corrosion prevention, propeller condition, engine mount, fabric or covering condition where applicable, and complete maintenance records. Water operation history matters as much as airframe time. Confirm compliance with manufacturer service bulletins and any country specific light sport maintenance requirements. Desirable upgrades can include modern glass avionics, ADS-B, improved radios, newer Rotax engine installations and well documented amphibious gear maintenance. In the used market, the Super Petrel LS usually sits as a specialized recreational amphibian, priced above simple landplane light sport aircraft but below larger certified amphibious aircraft.