Why I Fell in Love with the Sling TSi

For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved flying. But as I spent more time in the cockpit, a new idea started taking shape—what if I didn’t just fly a plane, but actually built one? That’s how I found myself on the path to building a Sling TSi, a decision driven by a mix of passion, curiosity, and practicality.

The Mission

To build a truly modern single-engine experimental plane and use it to chase horizons, share stories, and inspire adventure.

The Value of Experimental Amateur-Built (E-AB) Aircraft

General Aviation has been stagnant for decades, with certified aircraft manufacturers selling designs from the 1950s at sky-high prices. The FAA’s outdated regulations make even minor modifications difficult and costly, leaving pilots with limited choices and high operating expenses.

This is where E-AB aircraft change the game. By choosing an Experimental aircraft like the Sling TSi, I get:

Modern Technology & Innovation – The latest materials, avionics, and aerodynamics, unrestricted by decades-old certification requirements.

Lower Cost of Ownership – A new, high-performance E-AB aircraft costs far less than a comparable certified model, both in acquisition and maintenance.

Freedom to Modify & Upgrade – Unlike certified aircraft, I can upgrade avionics, engine components, and other systems without excessive FAA red tape.

Hands-On Knowledge – Since I’m involved in the build, I’ll understand my aircraft inside and out, allowing for smarter maintenance decisions.

For a pilot focused on long cross-country flights, this means getting a faster, more efficient, and fully customizable aircraft at a fraction of the cost of a factory-built alternative.

Built for Cross-Country Flying

The Sling TSi is designed for long-haul travel, making it the perfect aircraft for my mission.

Cruise Speed: 155+ knots, reducing flight time on long legs.

Fuel Efficiency: ~6-8 gph, offering one of the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO) in its category.

IFR-Ready Avionics: Modern touchscreen displays and autopilot for safer, more efficient flying in all weather conditions.

800+ NM Range: Extended fuel tanks allow for fewer stops and more flexibility.

Comfortable Cabin: Spacious and well-designed for long hours in the air.

Flying long distances isn’t just about speed—it’s about efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The TSi checks all those boxes, making it a superior choice for cross-country flying.

The Sling Aircraft Story – A Company of Innovators & Adventurers

Beyond the specs, another reason I chose the Sling TSi is because of Sling Aircraft’s unique story.

Founded by entrepreneurs, engineers, and adventurers, Sling isn’t just another aircraft manufacturer—it’s a company driven by a passion for innovation and real-world flying.

Proven Through Adventure – Instead of just testing their designs in labs, Sling’s founders flew their aircraft around the world to prove their performance.

Modern Yet Proven – The Sling TSi was introduced just over a decade ago, offering a perfect balance between new innovation and real-world reliability.

Hundreds of Sling TSis Built – With thousands of hours flown, it has become a trusted and tested aircraft for pilots worldwide.

The result? A company that pushes the boundaries of GA while delivering real-world, pilot-friendly aircraft.

Rotax – The Future of GA Engines

Unlike traditional aircraft engines that have barely evolved in 50+ years, Rotax is leading the way in aviation innovation. The Sling TSi was designed specifically around the Rotax engine, optimizing performance and efficiency.

• Rotax 916iS – Turbocharged Power – 160 hp with excellent high-altitude performance.

• FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) – A computerized system that optimizes fuel burn and reduces pilot workload.

• Incredible Efficiency – Burns as little as 6 gph while providing performance comparable to larger, fuel-hungry engines.

• Dual Ignition System – Built-in redundancy for increased safety.

• Mogas & Avgas Compatibility – Expands fuel options and significantly reduces operating costs.

By pairing the Rotax 916iS with a modern airframe, the Sling TSi achieves a perfect balance of power, efficiency, and reliability—something certified aircraft struggle to match.

Modern Garmin Avionics – IFR Ready & Smart Automation

Unlike many older GA aircraft that still rely on outdated analog gauges, the Sling TSi is equipped with a state-of-the-art Garmin avionics suite, making it one of the most capable IFR aircraft in its class. The integration and customization of this system are just as important as the technology itself, which is why I’m working with Midwest Panel Builders to ensure a clean, professional-grade installation tailored to my specific needs.

Garmin G3X Touch – Glass Cockpit – A fully integrated, high-resolution touchscreen display that provides real-time flight data, synthetic vision, and full IFR capability.

Garmin GTN 650Xi – IFR GPS/NAV/COM – A certified WAAS GPS that allows for precision approaches, giving me the flexibility to fly in more weather conditions.

Garmin GFC 507 Autopilot – A powerful autopilot system that reduces pilot workload, making cross-country and IFR flying much safer and easier.

ADS-B In & Out (Garmin GTX 45R Transponder) – Provides real-time traffic and weather, improving situational awareness.

Customizable & Future-Proof – Unlike certified aircraft, I can upgrade and modify my avionics as technology evolves, keeping my cockpit up to date.

Midwest Panel Builders is instrumental in wiring, integrating, and customizing the avionics setup, ensuring that every switch, screen, and component is optimized for ease of use and IFR operations. Their expert wiring, pre-testing, and layout design mean that my panel will not only be functional but also reliable and future-proof. Having a professionally wired, pre-tested, and ready-to-install panel reduces build time and guarantees a seamless and intuitive flying experience—critical for cross-country IFR operations.

Safety in IMC & Night Flying – The Parachute Advantage

One of the biggest safety enhancements of the Sling TSi—especially for flying in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) or at night—is the Ballistic Recovery System (BRS) parachute.

IMC Emergency Protection – If an emergency occurs in poor visibility, a full-airframe parachute provides a last-resort safety option.

Night Flying Security – Off-field landings at night are inherently risky. A BRS system dramatically increases survival chances.

Added Peace of Mind – Knowing I have this option makes every flight safer, especially over remote areas, mountains, or open water.

While pilot training and good decision-making are the best safety tools, having an extra layer of security that most GA aircraft don’t offer is a game-changer.

The Factory Build Program

Airplane Factory, Torrance CA

One of the biggest advantages of choosing the Sling TSi is the Factory Build Assist Program. While many Experimental aircraft require builders to spend years assembling their planes alone, Sling Aircraft offers a structured program that allows me to build my plane quickly and with expert guidance.

Fast-Track the Build – Instead of a multi-year solo project, I’ll complete my plane in about five months, with one month of hands-on work at the factory.

Expert Supervision – Working alongside experienced technicians ensures the plane is assembled correctly and efficiently.

Learn While Building – I’ll gain valuable hands-on experience in sheet metal work, avionics installation, and systems integration, making future maintenance easier.