The first Jabiru took flight in 1991 as part of founder Rodney Stiff’s vision to develop and promote affordable flying. From the humble lone J160 prototype, the company has gone on to become one of the stalwarts of what has become the Light Sports Aircraft (LSA) category.

Today over 1600 flying airframes and 6500 engines spread over 30 countries bear the Jabiru name. The J230/430 are the fastest selling members of the Jabiru bloodline as customers seek a little more space and performance from this ever popular type. Given the professional approach of the Bundaberg based company, this trend looks set to continue.

While the origins of the Jabiru 430 can be tracked directly back to the first Jabiru LSA 55/2K, the family has evolved substantially through its smaller members,the J120, -160 and -170. Though sharing similar lines to the smaller models, the J430 immediately catches the eye by its longer fuselage, additional mid window and rear entry door on the port side.

The sleek lines conceal the space within the cabin to some degree and not until you are seated and strapped in can you appreciate the cabin height and width. The comfort factor is far greater than many traditional trainer/tourers, and when compounded with the large windscreen and low-cut side windows, offers a definitely airy feel.

The Jabiru company was a pioneer of the LSA scene in Australia. As such, it has endured the rigorous processes of certification time and again. Rodney Stiff ’s vision was to make flying affordable and the Jabiru range has undoubtedly done that on a global basis.