NEWSLETTER MAY 2026
Over the years, Marc has gained experience flying a wide variety of aircraft: the Morane Rallye 100 hp, the Piper PA-28, numerous Robin DR400s, not to mention several microlights, including Weedhoopers, Buse Airs and Skyrangers. For the past fifteen years or so, he has also owned a Land-Africa. But when he talks about the aircraft that has left the deepest impression on him, it is always his MCR that he mentions…
Built in just 10 days!
Back when he was president of the Saverne-Steinbourg Flying Club (LFQY), Marc was already familiar with the MCRs by reputation. Fast, modern, carbon-fibre-built, they represent a new generation of particularly appealing light aircraft. But he was still far from imagining that he would one day become the owner of one of the most unique planes ever produced, one with an unusual history…
Restoration of a one-of-a-kind MCRIn late 2015, Marc learnt that the owner of F-JBAD had passed away, and that the aircraft—which had since been converted into an MCR ULC—had been sitting unused in a hangar for several months, left to fall into disrepair. Convinced that this MCR deserved a second lease of life, he decided to buy it from the owner’s heirs. The aircraft had flown a total of around 1,600 hours. And so began a real restoration adventure.
Back at his home workshop, Marc completely dismantles the aircraft. Mechanics, paintwork, overhaul of the engine, equipment: everything is thoroughly checked. For nearly a year, he breathes new life into this machine with the care and attention to detail that characterise enthusiasts of vintage mechanics like himself. The final reassembly is carried out at the airfield where the microlight is now based: Saverne-Steinbourg (LFQY). Finally, in early 2017, the F-JBAD takes to the skies once more.
Since then, Marc has flown nearly 400 hours with it, and the aircraft is now approaching 2,000 flight hours. True to his love of authentic mechanics, Marc has deliberately preserved the original spirit of his MCR. The cockpit remains remarkably simple: analogue instruments, no unnecessary electronics, no screens. There is just a mount to hold an iPad for GPS navigation.
In terms of safety, however, the aircraft benefited in 2022 from the installation of the new flap control system developed by SE Aviation Aircraft. More recently, Marc also replaced the original engine with an 80 hp Rotax 912 UL, which had clocked up fewer than 300 hours of use. The work was carried out from start to finish in his hangar, in keeping with his philosophy of technical self-reliance.
Because, yes, Marc loves to understand, maintain and repair his machines himself. Passionate about mechanics and classic cars, he appreciates simple things when they are well designed. His MCR perfectly reflects this philosophy. On the outside, the F-JBAD remains, in fact, utterly understated: a white paint job, simply accented by a discreet red trim. And that suits him perfectly!
Flying for pleasure and nothing but pleasure…
The way he uses his MCR is just like him: pleasure above all! Local flights make up the bulk of his flying. With friends or family, he regularly enjoys the magnificent landscapes of Alsace, particularly at sunset. These twilight flights are among his favourite moments…
He also sometimes flies a little further. He heads to French Brittany to visit a friend, or to Friedrichshafen to attend the AERO airshow, a unmissable event for the European general aviation sector. He also enjoys the unique atmosphere of the ‘Le Temps des Hélices’ airshow at La Ferté-Alais, where enthusiasts of heritage aviation gather every year.
Among all his memories, a trip to the Isle of Ouessant in 2022 holds a special place. The seascapes, the rugged coastline, the unusual grassy landscapes and the distinctive light of the Atlantic left him with an unforgettable experience.
At SE Aviation Aircraft, we always take great pleasure in supporting owners like Marc Dossmann. Passionate, meticulous and deeply attached to his aircraft, he carries on, in his own way, the history of a truly unique MCR. An aircraft born under the spotlights of the Champs-Élysées and which, nearly 30 years later, continues to write new chapters in its history, in all discretion!
When Marc talks about his MCR…
It’s a very special machine. You can’t walk past it without feeling the urge to touch it. When I fly my MCR, I really become one with it. Of all the aircraft I’ve flown, it’s certainly the one that offers the most thrills and the greatest flying pleasure.
It is agile, responsive and precise, yet remains easy to handle. Even with a modest 80 hp Rotax engine and a wooden propeller, it maintains remarkable performance and very reasonable operating costs.
For a while, I considered fitting an autopilot, but then I realised I enjoyed piloting too much to do that. What I’m looking for above all else are those moments of escape at the controls. That’s priceless!
I also appreciate the availability and professionalism of the whole team at SE Aviation Aircraft. Whether it’s Lydie or Éric, I’ve always found them to be knowledgeable, responsive and genuinely caring. That’s another reason why I’m such a happy customer.
