JMB Aircraft Jmb Vl-3

Single Piston

The JMB Aircraft VL3 is a Czech-designed light sport aircraft that has become one of Europe's most popular high-performance LSA models since its introduction in 2007. Built by JMB Aircraft in the Czech Republic, the VL3 is a low-wing, side-by-side two-seater known for its sleek composite construction and impressive speed-to-efficiency ratio. It qualifies as both an ultralight in Europe and a Special Light-Sport Aircraft (S-LSA) in the United States, making it accessible to sport pilots while delivering performance that rivals certified aircraft costing significantly more. The VL3 is powered by a Rotax 912 series engine (typically the 100-hp 912 ULS or 115-hp 912 iS fuel-injected variant), driving a three-blade composite propeller. What sets the VL3 apart in the LSA category is its cruise speed, capable of 140 knots true airspeed at altitude while burning only 4-5 gallons per hour, combined with docile handling characteristics and a roomy cockpit with excellent visibility. The aircraft's carbon-fiber airframe keeps empty weight around 650 pounds, leaving useful load for two adults and baggage even within the 1,320-pound LSA limit. Its long, tapered wings and streamlined fuselage give it a distinctly modern appearance compared to tube-and-fabric ultralights. The VL3 has found particular favor among European private pilots, where the D-M registration prefix (German ultralight category) is common, though it's also flown in the U.S. and other markets. Optional features include retractable landing gear on some variants, further boosting cruise performance. SkyMeter has tracked 282 flights across 95 airframes and 17 operators, with JONES MATHEW the largest observed operator.