Leading Edge Gear: Weekend Warrior Fold-Up Plane

Move over Ski-Doos, the ultimate toy for weekend warriors is about to hit garages and driveways across the country. It’s the Icon A5 amphibious light sport aircraft ($139,000; iconaircraft.com). Created by a former F-16 pilot, this carbon-hulled, 22-foot-long plane reaches airspeeds of 120 miles an hour, its wings fold back so you can tow it on a trailer, and its 20-gallon fuel tank takes unleaded. FAA rules on this new aircraft category say that, in general, you can’t fly at night or near an airport with a control tower, but getting your license takes only 20 hours of in-flight training.  

Preview our October issue's Leading Edge story, featuring 21 ideas, bold explorers, and cool stuff to dream about, here.