Aero: Atol 650 Amphib Finds U.S. Manufacturer

An investor group based in Maine says it will manufacture the Atol 650, a Finnish-designed high-performance light sport amphibian. Atol USA is a joint venture with the Finland-based Atol Avion mother company. Because of its many lakes, amphib flying is popular in Finland and the company says Maine has similar topography so the company sees strong potential for the U.S. market.

Atol says its design is unique for its relatively high useful load of about 600 pounds in a market where many light sport aircraft struggle to deliver a little over 500 pounds. Atol says the 650 uses a material called Ortex fabric to keep the weight low and strength high. The Atol 650 is powered by the Rotax 912 iS and has quick-folding wings, plus a unique portable hangar option.Atol says it will begin delivering aircraft in Europe later this year and U.S. deliveries are expected sometime in 2019.