I thought that the Extra 500 had one serious problem for an aircraft to be flown IFR in Europe: MTOW 4.696 lbs / 2.130 kg
I would strongly agree that they have missed a hugely massively obvious opportunity there....
That extra 130kg probably doubles the hourly flying cost, if you go IFR.
Surely with a bit of carbon fibre or magnesium they could save 130kg.
They may be able to get an STC for 1999kg, like was done with the Seneca. This is just some flight manual pages...
I vaguely recall that a Meridian can have the same 1999kg treatment but only on N-reg; EASA has refused to accept that STC.
I was very suprised the Diamond jet (which doesn't exist yet anyway) was coming out above 2000kg as well.