The ICON A5 represents a groundbreaking advancement in light sport aircraft design, combining sleek aesthetics with practical functionality. As potential buyers and aviation enthusiasts evaluate this amphibious aircraft, one crucial factor stands out: its useful load capacity.
Understanding the ICON A5’s useful load capabilities is essential for pilots planning their flights and adventures. The aircraft’s load-carrying capacity directly impacts its versatility and practical applications, from weekend getaways to training missions. With specific weight limitations and careful considerations for fuel, passengers, and cargo, knowing these details helps owners maximize their aircraft’s potential while maintaining safe operating conditions.
Icon A5 Useful Load
The Icon A5’s payload capacity reflects its design as a light sport aircraft with specific weight limitations. The aircraft’s weight specifications determine its operational capabilities across different flight conditions.
Maximum Takeoff Weight
The Icon A5 operates with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 1,510 pounds. This limit encompasses the aircraft’s empty weight, fuel, passengers, baggage plus any additional equipment installed for flight operations.
| Weight Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 1,510 lbs |
| Maximum Payload | 430-450 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 20 gallons |
| Maximum Occupants | 2 people |
- Standard aircraft systems
- Engine fluids
- Required instrumentation
- Basic interior components
- Default avionics package
| Configuration | Empty Weight |
|---|---|
| Base Model | 1,080 lbs |
| Fully Equipped | 1,100 lbs |
| Optional Equipment | +0-20 lbs |
Key Components of Icon A5 Useful Load
The Icon A5’s useful load comprises essential components that directly impact its operational capabilities. These components represent the total weight available for fuel, passengers, and cargo within the aircraft’s design limitations.
Fuel Capacity and Weight
The Icon A5’s fuel system holds 20 gallons of premium unleaded automotive gasoline (91 octane). The fuel weight calculation equates to approximately 120 pounds at maximum capacity, based on the standard weight of 6 pounds per gallon. The aircraft’s fuel consumption rate averages 5 gallons per hour during normal cruise operations at 85 knots.
| Fuel Specifications | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Capacity | 20 gallons |
| Fuel Weight (Full) | 120 pounds |
| Consumption Rate | 5 gal/hour |
| Fuel Type | 91 octane |
- Front storage compartment for small personal items
- Rear storage compartment for larger equipment
- Side pocket storage for maps navigation devices
- Under-seat storage compartments for emergency equipment
| Weight Categories | Maximum Limit |
|---|---|
| Combined Occupant Weight | 430-450 pounds |
| Baggage Weight | 60 pounds |
| Storage Volume | 0.86 cubic feet |
Impact of Useful Load on Performance
The ICON A5’s useful load directly influences its flight performance characteristics. The aircraft’s performance metrics change based on the weight distribution between passengers fuel baggage.
Range Considerations
The ICON A5’s range varies significantly with its payload configuration. At maximum useful load the aircraft achieves a range of 427 nautical miles with 30-minute reserves. Empty weight configurations extend the range to 450 nautical miles while carrying minimal cargo increases flight duration by 45 minutes. The fuel consumption rate increases by 0.7 gallons per hour for every 100 pounds of additional weight beyond basic empty weight.
- Cruise speed decreases by 5-7 knots
- Service ceiling drops from 15,000 to 12,000 feet
- Climb rate reduces from 1,100 to 900 feet per minute
- Takeoff distance increases by 15%
| Performance Metric | Light Load | Maximum Load |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 95 knots | 88 knots |
| Service Ceiling | 15,000 ft | 12,000 ft |
| Climb Rate | 1,100 fpm | 900 fpm |
| Takeoff Distance | 750 ft | 863 ft |
Weight and Balance Requirements
The ICON A5’s weight and balance requirements establish specific parameters for safe operation. These requirements ensure optimal performance while maintaining stability across various loading configurations.
Center of Gravity Limits
The ICON A5 maintains precise center of gravity (CG) limits between 28% and 32% of the mean aerodynamic chord. Critical CG measurements include:
| CG Parameter | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Forward Limit | 28% MAC |
| Aft Limit | 32% MAC |
| Lateral CG Limit | ±2 inches |
| Datum Reference | Nose of Aircraft |
Loading considerations include:
- Placement of passengers affects longitudinal balance
- Fuel load distribution impacts forward CG position
- Baggage compartment loading influences aft CG position
- Equipment installation requires weight moment calculations
The aircraft incorporates:
- Built-in weight sensors in seat mounting points
- Digital weight display system
- Automated CG calculation warnings
- Real-time balance monitoring alerts
Loading restrictions specify:
- Maximum front seat occupant weight: 250 lbs
- Maximum rear compartment load: 60 lbs
- Minimum pilot weight: 110 lbs
- Maximum lateral imbalance: 27 lbs
- Stable flight characteristics
- Proper control response
- Safe stall recovery behavior
- Optimal performance in all flight phases
Loading Configurations and Best Practices
Passenger and Cargo Distribution
The ICON A5’s optimal loading configuration prioritizes balanced weight distribution. Passengers occupy the front seats with a combined weight limit of 430-450 pounds. The baggage compartments accommodate up to 60 pounds, distributed between the front storage area (25 pounds) and rear compartment (35 pounds).
Fuel Loading Strategies
Loading fuel strategically enhances flight planning flexibility:
- Fill tanks to 75% capacity (15 gallons) for local flights with two passengers
- Load full fuel (20 gallons) for extended range with single pilot operations
- Calculate fuel requirements based on 5 gallons per hour consumption rate
- Maintain minimum 3 gallons reserve for safety margins
Weight Distribution Guidelines
Key practices for maintaining proper weight distribution:
- Place heavier items in the front compartment for optimal center of gravity
- Secure all cargo using integrated tie-down points
- Position personal items under seats to minimize movement
- Monitor digital weight display readings throughout loading process
Loading Sequence
The recommended loading sequence maximizes efficiency:
- Load baggage first to verify compartment weight limits
- Add fuel based on flight requirements
- Board passengers last for accurate weight calculations
- Verify final weight display readings before engine start
Weight Categories Reference Table
| Category | Maximum Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|
| Front Seat Occupants | 450 |
| Front Storage | 25 |
| Rear Storage | 35 |
| Total Baggage | 60 |
| Full Fuel Load | 120 |
- Cross-check digital weight sensors before each flight
- Verify passenger weights match declared values
- Ensure baggage remains within compartment weight limits
- Monitor CG indicators during loading process
- Document weight distribution on flight planning forms
The ICON A5’s useful load capabilities showcase its thoughtful design and engineering excellence. While its weight limitations may seem restrictive they’re carefully calculated to ensure optimal performance and safety. Pilots who understand and respect these load parameters can fully enjoy the aircraft’s capabilities.
The comprehensive weight management systems and clear guidelines make it straightforward for operators to maintain safe loading conditions. By following the recommended practices for weight distribution fuel management and cargo placement pilots can maximize their A5’s performance while maintaining its impressive safety record.
