Who are we?

Jabiru LSA is the exclusive importer to the Americas for Jabiru Aircraft and Kits. At Jabiru LSA, our passion for aviation fuels everything we do. From navigating complex import regulations to offering personalized customer service, our team of experts works tirelessly to make Jabiru ownership and operation accessible and rewarding. We are proud to be the trusted bridge between the Jabiru manufacturers in Australia and the Americas.

Together, we are shaping the future of flight in the Americas.

Let’s fly higher—together.

Meet the Team

With over 40 years of experience in the aviation industry we bring our expertise to the Jabiru, one of the premier Light Sport aircraft in the industry. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a blooming flight school, or just dreaming of reaching the skies, we are dedicated to providing you with a seamless, professional experience from inquiry to delivery.

Scott Severen, President & CEO

Scott’s been an industry pillar since before the light sport world began. In the early 70’s, Scott began building and flying all sorts of ultralight aircraft and established Lone Star Airpark in North Texas a decade later. His input has been pivotal in helping the industry define regulations that make sense for aircraft owners and operators in the ultralight and light sport world. He is the President and Chairman of the board of the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association.

Michael Severen, Director of Sales & Marketing

Michael has been in and around the aviation industry his whole life and appreciates the drive that keeps us all flying. His in-depth knowledge of the light sport world and aircraft capabilities will help you find the perfect aircraft for your mission. He also makes us look pretty good too! (Do you like this website?)

Marcus Smith, Director of Maintenance

Marcus is our maintenance and avionics brain trust. He’s spent years in General Aviation becoming one of the leading mechanics in the area for light sport and avionics service. From Garmin & Dynon panel and harness fabrication to engine installation, he’s got your aircraft covered. His certifications include A&P and iRMT (independent ROTAX maintenance training).

Our History

The Aussie Beginnings

Jabiru was started in 1988 by Rodney Stiff and Phil Ainsworth to develop an affordable, reliable and efficient light aircraft to make flying possible for more people. In October of 1991, the type certificate for the first Jabiru aircraft was awarded, but only one month later, the engine manufacturer ceased aircraft engine production. Undaunted, the Jabiru team decided to design their own engine for their new aircraft. Thus, the unique dual mission of engine and aircraft manufacturer was born.

Since then, Jabiru has built thousands of aircraft and engines, with aircraft manufacturing centers in Australia and South Africa, with a growing fleet of light-sport aircraft in the U.S.  In 2009, Rodney Stiff was awarded the Dr. August Raspet Memorial Award by the Experimental Aircraft Association “for his outstanding contributions to the advancement of the design of light aircraft.”

The American Expansion

Jabiru USA Sport Aircraft was established in 2001 by the Krotjes who offered sales & service of Jabiru aircraft engines and airframe kits. In 2005, Jabiru USA began manufacturing turn-key Jabiru Special Light-Sport Aircraft. Today, Jabiru owners fly all over the USA for pleasure, traveling, and flight training, enjoying one of the best safety records in the Light-Sport industry. Over 3,500 of the 7,500+ engines produced by Jabiru are flying in the USA with over 1 million hours on the Jabiru fleet worldwide. Jabiru LSA ranks in the top 7 Light-Sport manufacturers (By DanJohnson.com) in the USA.

 

Continued Innovation

On 4 May 2023, Rod finally took a break and handed the reins over to Mick Halloran and a few months later, the FAA released its notice of proposed rulemaking for the MOSAIC program, a change which would allow all of Jabiru’s fleet to be delivered as factory built.

Around the same time, Jabiru signed a contract with the Defence Innovation Hub to develop a logistics drone capable of carrying 50kg over 150km. On a Saturday, 16 months later, the first controlled flight of the JCQ50 was achieved. A short 25 years after Jabiru’s original first flight.

In 2024, Jabiru was granted an EATP grant to develop the Jabiru Electric Motor for crewed and uncrewed vehicles. Another first flight awaits.

Jabiru has positioned itself to be a global leader in aircraft and propulsion for payloads between 50kg and 500kg, whatever technology or regulation comes our way. We are looking forward to the next 35 years.

Now that you know our story, we want to hear yours!

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