The original single seater was light enough when fitted with the 28 hp (21 kW) Rotax 277 engine to qualify for the US FAR 103 Ultralight Vehicles category, with an empty weight of 240 lb (109 kg).

[2][7] After Maxair went out of business, the design was picked up in 1997 by Lockwood Aircraft who produced kits for a number of single and two-seat versions, mostly differing by installed engine.

[6] From the 1983, Austflight ULA originally based at Ballina, New South Wales began licence production of the Drifter.

Further improvements led to the Strut Braced (SB) version built to CAO 101.55 class certification in December 1993.

Austflight suffered financial losses due to the costs associated with certification and the joint venture agreement.

Its forgiving handling, mechanical simplicity, ease of maintenance and solid airframe all contributed to the Drifter’s good reputation.

[2] Bayerl et al. describe the aircraft as "light in weight, but aerodynamically handicapped", due to its high-drag cable bracing.