The Zenith CH 650 - Zodiac Photo Gallery #125

Video Clip:
Flying the Zenith CH 650

• More Videos of the new CH 650
• Zenith Videos and excerpts from the Zenith Aircraft Demo Video

Photos of the lighter European Zenair CH 650E powered by the 100-hp Rotax 912 ULS engine.

Flying the CH 650

A great photo of a Zenith CH 650 in flight (notice the bubble canopy shade).

"I initially considered the AMD Zodiac because I wanted a special light-sport aircraft (S-LSA) that was approved for night flight and instrument flight rules (IFR).  I like the idea of working with a U.S.-based company, and it turned out to be a good decision. For use in training, the simplicity if the Zodiac's airframe, use of conventional materials, and the Part 33-certified Continental O-200 were appealing.
"...N117FA is equipped rather uniquely for a light-sport aircraft; my goal was to have one aircraft to provide sport, private and instrument training.  The Garmin GNS530W's traffic displays are a safety benefit, and the canopy is perfect for clearing turns. Aspen PFD features, such as map details and navigation data, can be turned off at the touch of a button to prevent the aspiring sport pilot from becoming overwhelmed.  With all functions enabled, the situational awareness for actual IFR far surpasses what was formerly available only for the big iron.  As an instrument trainer, the Zodiac is economical, stable and provides and approach speed that gives the student time to react without getting behind the plane.  At a fuel burn of approximately 6 gph, the Zodiac saves about $20 an hour at today's fuel prices over the typical IFR trainer.
"...Once inside the cockpit of the Zodiac, it is comfortable, so rushing the fligh would only shorten the fun..."

• Y. Forsyth, Gaithersburg, MD (Excerpted from EAA Sport Pilot magazine, December 2008 issue, page 48).