The RV-12 is a two-seat all-metal side-by-side airplane with a large cabin that seats the occupants ahead of the wing spar for maximum room and superb visibility. The RV-12 meets the certification standards of the Light Sport Aircraft category.

The wings are quickly and easily removable. Two people can have the wings off an RV-12 in less than five minutes, making the airplane easy to transport on a trailer and keep off-airport. Pull a pair of pins behind the seats and the wings come off in a few seconds. All control and wiring connections are automatic and an ignition interlock prevents the engine from starting if the wings are not properly installed.

It is powered by a Rotax 912ULS 100 hp engine, equipped with a Sensenich wood/composite propeller. The empty weight allows a useful load of two 210 lb people, 20 gallons of fuel and 50 lbs of baggage.

Vans Aircraft produced the RV-12 as an E-LSA kit and later as an S-LSA. The first 12 Signature Edition versions sold well with 60 more buyers lined up at US$115,000.

Gallery

Engine: Rotax 912ULS
Propeller: Sensenich f/p
Span: 26’ 9”
Length: 19’ 11”
Height: 8′ 4″
Wing Area: 127 sq. ft.
Empty Weight: 740 lbs
Gross Weight: 1320 lbs
Wing Loading: 10.4 lbs/sq. ft.
Power Loading: 13.2 lbs/hp
Fuel Capacity: 20 US gallons
Cabin Width: 43”
Baggage: 50 lbs
Top Speed: 135 mph
Cruise 7500’ @ 5500 rpm: 131 mph
Cruise 7500’ @ 5000 rpm: 114 mph
Stall Speed: 47 mph
Takeoff Distance: 600 ft.
Landing Distance: 420 ft.
Rate of Climb: 906 fpm
Ceiling: 13,000 ft.
Range 7500’ @ 5500 rpm: 555 miles
Range 7500’ @ 5000 rpm: 620 miles

The RV-9/9A wing is longer and narrower than the wings of the RV-4/6/8 series, and uses a new Roncz airfoil. The increased span allows it to climb well on low power and glide a long way. The flaps are a long span, slotted, high lift design that allows the airplane to land slower than many primary trainers. A simplified constant-chord horizontal tail and large vertical tail are proportioned to work with the longer wing. The fuselage and cabin are identical to the RV-7/7A and there are the same sliding/tip-up canopy and trigear/tailwheel landing gear options.

The RV-9/9A uses a 118 hp Lycoming (taken from a Cessna 152) to power the prototype. The result was an efficient airplane with respectable short field capability, excellent cruise speed (165 mph). The airframe is engineered to accept the 160 hp Lycoming O-320.

The RV-9 first flew on 15 June 2000, piloted by VanGrunsven. The RV-9A, a tail wheel version of the RV-9, made its maiden flight on 4 March 2002, also piloted by VanGrunsven.

RV-9
Engine: 118 hp
Span: 28 ft
Length: 20 ft 5 in
Height: 6 ft
Wing Area: 124 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1015 – 1057 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 – 1750 lbs
Wing Loading: 12.9 – 14.1lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 13.6 – 10.9 lb/hp
Engine: 118 -160 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 36 US gal
Baggage: 75 lbs
Top Speed: 172 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 166 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 150 mph
Stall Speed: 48 mph
Takeoff Distance: 525 ft
Landing Distance: 355 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,000 fpm
Ceiling: 14,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 875 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 1,035 sm

RV-9
Engine: 135 hp
Span: 28 ft
Length: 20 ft 5 in
Height: 6 ft
Wing Area: 124 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1015 – 1057 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 – 1750 lbs
Wing Loading: 12.9 – 14.1lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 13.6 – 10.9 lb/hp
Engine: 118 -160 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 36 US gal
Baggage: 75 lbs
Top Speed: 178 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 174 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 157 mph
Stall Speed: 49 mph
Takeoff Distance: 500 ft
Landing Distance: 410 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,150 fpm
Ceiling: 16,000 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 745 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 910 sm

RV-9
Engine: 160 hp
Span: 28 ft
Length: 20 ft 5 in
Height: 6 ft
Wing Area: 124 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1015 – 1057 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 – 1750 lbs
Wing Loading: 12.9 – 14.1lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 13.6 – 10.9 lb/hp
Engine: 118 -160 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 36 US gal
Baggage: 75 lbs
Top Speed: 196 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 188 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 168 mph
Stall Speed: 50 mph
Takeoff Distance: 475 ft
Landing Distance: 450 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,400 fpm
Ceiling: 19,000 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 710 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 860 sm

RV-9A
Engine: 118 hp
Span: 28 ft
Length: 20 ft 5 in
Height: 7 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 124 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1028 – 1075 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 – 1750 lbs
Wing Loading: 12.9 – 14.1 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 13.6 -10.9 lb/hp
Engine: 118 -160 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 36 US gal
Baggage: 75 lbs
Top Speed: 170 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 164 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 148 mph
Stall Speed: 48 mph
Takeoff Distance: 525 ft
Landing Distance: 375 ft
Rate of Climb: 950 fpm
Ceiling: 14,000 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 865 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 1025 sm

RV-9A
Engine: 135 hp
Span: 28 ft
Length: 20 ft 5 in
Height: 7 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 124 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1028 – 1075 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 – 1750 lbs
Wing Loading: 12.9 – 14.1 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 13.6 -10.9 lb/hp
Engine: 118 -160 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 36 US gal
Baggage: 75 lbs
Top Speed: 176 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 172 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 155 mph
Stall Speed: 49 mph
Takeoff Distance: 500 ft
Landing Distance: 410 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,100 fpm
Ceiling: 15,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 735 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 900 sm

RV-9A
Engine: 160 hp
Span: 28 ft
Length: 20 ft 5 in
Height: 7 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 124 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1028 – 1075 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 – 1750 lbs
Wing Loading: 12.9 – 14.1 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 13.6 -10.9 lb/hp
Engine: 118 -160 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 36 US gal
Baggage: 75 lbs
Top Speed: 194 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 186 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 166 mph
Stall Speed: 50 mph
Takeoff Distance: 475 ft
Landing Distance: 450 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,400 fpm
Ceiling: 18,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 700 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 850 sm

In 1995, Van’s decided to re-visit the tandem seating concept. Even though the side-by-side RV-6/6A had become the most popular homebuilt design ever, there was still a significant percentage of pilots who really wanted centerline seating. The consensus seemed to be that a roomier tandem airplane with better cross-country capability would be popular.
A one-of-a-kind demonstrator was built and introduced at Oshkosh in 1995. The response left no doubt about the desire for an airplane like the RV-8. The RV-8 went on the market in 1996 and complete kits were available by the end of 1998. In short order, it was followed by the kit for the tricycle gear RV-8A.
The RV-8/8A retains the fighter-like feel of centerline seating, but the wider fuselage contains cockpits that accommodate large people in comfort. Two baggage compartments, one forward and one aft, keep even large amounts of luggage well within the weight and balance envelope. Pilots up to 6’7″ fit in the front. A Tall Pilot option is available. (It was used by one successful builder who describes himself as 6’ 10″, although we think he might be taller). Factory demo pilots have flown demo rides with passengers up to 6’9″ and 260 lbs in the back.
The large 42 gallon fuel capacity long range and high cruise speeds. At the aerobatic gross weight of 1600 lbs., the RV-8/8A complies with the +6/-3G standards of the FAA’s Aerobatic Category and can still carry two people, making it possible for a new pilot to get aerobatic instruction before he or she starts rolling and looping.
The sliding canopy is built around a sturdy steel roll bar and fixed windshield. It must remain closed in flight, but the standard fresh air ducts provide plenty of fresh air to both seats. The RV-8/8A is designed to be flown from the front seat, although a rear stick is provided and a rear throttle and rudder pedals are optional.
The RV-8/8A was designed to accept the 200 horsepower IO-360 Lycoming. The prototype with this engine demonstrated really remarkable performance. With a single occupant, it would take off in 250’ and climb out at 2600 fpm. The fact that the RV-8 can accept a large engine doesn’t mean that it needs it. The traditional engine options – 150-180 hp Lycomings – have been retained (probably the majority of flying RV-8/8As are powered by a 180 hp engine) and with these lighter engines, performance is still exciting – and the handling even better.

Kits sold for $14,770-14,995, and a quick-build for $21,750-21,995.

The change that allowed the change in aerobatic gross weight is the use of longer and heavier spar caps and heavier carry-through bulkhead bars. Other parts also needed to be changed to accommodate the larger pieces. The kit serial numbers are issued when a customer gets their tail kit. This means that a low serial number may have the 1600 lb aerobatic gross wing and centre section, while a higher serial number may have the 1550 lb aerobatic gross wing and centre section. Check the packing list for the wing kit and if it says “1” after the spar and centre section, then it’s the 1600 lb gross version. If no ‘1’ then it’s the 1550 lb gross.

Gallery

RV-8
Engine: 160 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 24 ft
Length: 21 ft
Height: 5 ft 7 in
Wing Area: 116 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1067 – 1120 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 15.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12 – 9 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 125 lbs
Top Speed: 205 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 195 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 173 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 650 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,400 fpm
Ceiling: 18,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 855 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 1,030 sm

RV-8
Engine: 180 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 24 ft
Length: 21 ft
Height: 5 ft 7 in
Wing Area: 116 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1067 – 1120 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 15.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12 – 9 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 125 lbs
Top Speed: 213 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 203 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 180 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 575 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,650 fpm
Ceiling: 20,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 790 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 955 sm

RV-8
Engine: 200 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 24 ft
Length: 21 ft
Height: 5 ft 7 in
Wing Area: 116 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1067 – 1120 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 15.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12 – 9 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 125 lbs
Top Speed: 221 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 210 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 187 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 500 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,900 fpm
Ceiling: 22,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 780 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 940 sm

RV-8A
Engine: 160 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 24 ft
Length: 20 ft 10 in
Height: 7 ft 4 in
Wing Area: 116 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1067 – 1120 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 15.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12 – 9 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 125 lbs
Top Speed: 203 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 193 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 171 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 650 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,350 fpm
Ceiling: 17,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 845 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 1020 sm

RV-8A
Engine: 180 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 24 ft
Length: 20 ft 10 in
Height: 7 ft 4 in
Wing Area: 116 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1067 – 1120 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 15.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12 – 9 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 125 lbs
Top Speed: 211 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 201 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 178 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 575 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,600 fpm
Ceiling: 19,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 780 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 945 sm

RV-8A
Engine: 200 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 24 ft
Length: 20 ft 10 in
Height: 7 ft 4 in
Wing Area: 116 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1067 – 1120 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 15.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12 – 9 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 125 lbs
Top Speed: 219 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 208 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 184 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 500 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,800 fpm
Ceiling: 21,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 770 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 930 sm

Engine: Lycoming O-360, 200 hp
Wing span: 7 m
Wing area: 10.1 sq.m
MAUW: 1080 kg
Empty weight: 484 kg
Fuel capacity: 166 lt
Max speed: 357 kph
Cruise speed: 341 kph
Minimum speed: 82 kph
Climb rate: 9.5 m/s
Seats: 2
Fuel consumption: 40 lt/hr
Kit price (1998): $13,000

The RV-7 is the pre-punched fuselage of the RV-9 and the pre-punched wings and tail of the RV-8 married together. It comes in tail wheel or nosewheel, and sliding or tilt up canopy. The RV-7/7A replaced the RV-6/6A.
About 70% of our customers prefer side by side seating and the RV-7/7A has a roomy cockpit that will easily accept two 6’ + adults with sufficient leg, head and elbow room to stay comfortable for three to four hours at a time. The seating arrangement puts both occupants on an equal footing – standard dual controls and optional dual brakes give either occupant full control with equal visibility.
The RV-7/7A retains all the traditional RV virtues. It is an all-around sport airplane, with excellent cross-country capability, fine aerobatic qualities and superior handling. A typical RV-7 can hold two FAA standard pilots, 100 lbs. of baggage and full tanks: 42 gallons. At the aerobatic gross weight of 1600 lbs., the RV-7/7A complies with the +6/-3G standards of the FAA’s Aerobatic Category and can still carry two people, making it possible for a new pilot to get aerobatic instruction before he or she starts rolling and looping.
Both sliding and tip-up canopies are available. Both may be opened for taxi ventilation.

All RVs are capable of very short take-offs and landings and the RV-7/7A is no exception. Equipped with any Lycoming engine between 150 and 200 hp, and either a fixed-pitch or constant-speed propeller, it will leave the ground quickly and climb at impressive rates. The rugged fixed steel landing gear (tailwheel or tri-gear) makes it possible to operate from almost any airstrip, including grass or dirt.

RV-7
Engine: 160 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 25 ft 0in.
Length: 20 ft 4 in.
Height: 5 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 121 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1061 – 1114 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.8 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12.0 – 9.0 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 100 lbs
Top Speed: 201 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 191 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 172 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 650 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,400 fpm
Ceiling: 18,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 835 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 1,025 sm

RV-7
Engine: 180 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 25 ft 0in.
Length: 20 ft 4 in.
Height: 5 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 121 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1061 – 1114 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.8 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12.0 – 9.0 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 100 lbs
Top Speed: 209 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 199 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 179 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 575 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,650 fpm
Ceiling: 20,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 775 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 950 sm

RV-7
Engine: 200 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 25 ft 0in.
Length: 20 ft 4 in.
Height: 5 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 121 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1061 – 1114 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.8 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12.0 – 9.0 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 100 lbs
Top Speed: 216 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 206 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 186 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 500 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,900 fpm
Ceiling: 22,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 765 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 935 sm

RV-7A
Engine: 160 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 25 ft 0 in
Length: 20 ft 4 in
Height: 7 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 121 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1077 – 1130 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.8 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12.0 – 9.0 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 100 lbs
Top Speed: 199 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 189 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 170 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 650 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,350 fpm
Ceiling: 17,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 825 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 1015 sm

RV-7A
Engine: 180 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 25 ft 0 in
Length: 20 ft 4 in
Height: 7 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 121 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1077 – 1130 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.8 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12.0 – 9.0 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 100 lbs
Top Speed: 207 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 197 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 177 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 575 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,600 fpm
Ceiling: 19,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 765 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 940 sm

RV-7A
Engine: 200 hp
Prop: Hartzell 2 Blade C/S
Span: 25 ft 0 in
Length: 20 ft 4 in
Height: 7 ft 10 in
Wing Area: 121 sq ft
Empty Weight: 1077 – 1130 lbs
Gross Weight: 1800 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.8 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 12.0 – 9.0 lb/hp
Engine: 150-200 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 42 US gal
Baggage: 100 lbs
Top Speed: 213 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 204 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 183 mph
Stall Speed: 58 mph
Takeoff Distance: 500 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,850 fpm
Ceiling: 21,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 755 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 925 sm

Soon after the RV-4 proved that a two seat RV was practical, prospective customers began asking for a side-by-side RV.
When the demand became too big to ignore, Van went back to the drafting board. Using what he’d learned from the RV-3 and RV-4, he designed the RV-6.
He made it 43 inches wide and gave it a baggage compartment behind the seats. The wing on the RV-4 worked so well that there was no point in changing it, so he didn’t. The canopy was a forward opening bubble that closed almost seamlessly and the fuel capacity was increased.
The RV-6 made its first flight in 1985. When all the flight testing was done, it was only three miles per hour slower than the RV-4.
One limit to RV sales had always been the fact that they were all tailwheel airplanes. Installing a nose wheel solved the problem. The RV-6A featured a very simple tricycle gear, with steel rod main gear legs and a free castoring nosewheel. The nosegear leg was supported by the steel engine mount and required no complicated steering mechanisms or shock absorbers. The modification resulted in very little weight gain and almost negligible performance loss.
After the RV-6A was flying, Van’s designed a sliding canopy option on both the RV-6 and RV-6A.

Kits were priced at $11,810-12,565, and a quick-build kit at $19,320-19,995.

Eustace Bowhay, of Salmon Arm, BC, is a pilot with vast experience in both land and water aircraft. He carefully researched the matter and decided that the RV-6 had the potential to be an excellent floatplane. After consulting engineers, he designed a float installation and submitted it to the Canadian authorities for engineering approval. The Canadian Ministry of Transport determined that the RV-6 was strong enough, without modification, to handle the added stresses and loads imposed by flying off water. Cruise speeds, with the 180 hp Lycoming and constant speed prop, were 150 statue miles per hour. The water handling characteristics were excellent and the airplane was easy to land and taxi on land or water.
After flying the airplane on both wheels and straight floats for two years, Eustace and Jim decided they could have the best of both worlds, and installed amphibious floats. These worked just as well.
In 2005, Eustace, then over 80, decided that it was time to step out of the cockpit. C-GHAY was converted back to wheels and sold. Eustace died in 2006

Aeronautical Industrial Engineering And Project Management Company Ltd. / AIEP, in Nigeria was established 1979 to assemble kits of the Van’s RV-6A, known locally as Air Beetle and used by the Nigerian Air Force as the T18 trainer.

The RV 6s normal limit of plus or minus 6g, fully aerobatic in the sports category. The carburetted 160 hp Lycoming 0 320H2AD. Empty weight is 1010 lbs and the 1600 lb MAUW and full fuel of 144 litres.
Climb speed of 90 kts brings only about 2350 rpm, with around 1200 fpm indicated. This RV 6 will climb at 1600 fpm at MAUW at its best angle speed of 65 kts. Cruise at 75 percent power is slightly better than 150 kts, not much slower than full power.

Gallery

Variation:
Aviation Industries of Iran AVA-202

RV-6
Engine: Lycoming O-320, 150 hp
Span: 23 ft
Length: 20 ft 2 in
Height: 5 ft 3 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 965 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 38 US gal
Baggage: 60 lbs
Top Speed: 197 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 186 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 168 mph
Stall Speed: 55 mph
Takeoff Distance: 550 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,355 fpm
Ceiling: 15,800 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 775 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 950 sm

RV-6
Engine: Lycoming O-320, 160 hp
Span: 23 ft
Length: 20 ft 2 in
Height: 5 ft 3 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 965 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 38 US gal
Baggage: 60 lbs
Top Speed: 201 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 190 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 171 mph
Stall Speed: 55 mph
Takeoff Distance: 535 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,500 fpm
Ceiling: 17,400 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 775 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 950 sm

RV-6
Engine: 180 hp
Span: 23 ft
Length: 20 ft 2 in
Height: 5 ft 3 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 965 lbs
Gross Weight: 1600 lbs
Wing Loading: 14.5 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 38 US gal
Baggage: 60 lbs
Top Speed: 209 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 198 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 178 mph
Stall Speed: 55 mph
Takeoff Distance: 475 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,790 fpm
Ceiling: 20,800 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 720 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 880 sm

RV-6A
Engine: 150 hp
Span: 23 ft
Length: 19 ft 9 in
Height: 6 ft 8 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 985 lbs
Gross Weight: 1650 lbs
Wing Loading: 15 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10.3 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 38 US gal
Baggage: 60 lbs
Top Speed: 195 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 184 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 166 mph
Stall Speed: 55 mph
Takeoff Distance: 560 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,305 fpm
Ceiling: 14,750 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 760 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 875 sm

RV-6A
Engine: 160 hp
Span: 23 ft
Length: 19 ft 9 in
Height: 6 ft 8 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 985 lbs
Gross Weight: 1650 lbs
Wing Loading: 15 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10.3 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 38 US gal
Baggage: 60 lbs
Top Speed: 199 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 188 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 169 mph
Stall Speed: 55 mph
Takeoff Distance: 535 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,450 fpm
Ceiling: 16,300 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 760 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 875 sm

RV-6A
Engine: 180 hp
Span: 23 ft
Length: 19 ft 9 in
Height: 6 ft 8 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 985 lbs
Gross Weight: 1650 lbs
Wing Loading: 15 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10.3 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 38 US gal
Baggage: 60 lbs
Top Speed: 207 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 196 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 176 mph
Stall Speed: 55 mph
Takeoff Distance: 485 ft
Landing Distance: 500 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,740 fpm
Ceiling: 19,700 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 705 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 810 sm

Of the Van’s RV series, the RV-4 was by far the most popular. The two-seat RV-4 was developed from the company’s single-seat RV-3 and the philosophy behind the design of the RV-4 was to have a two-seat aircraft that handled as close as possible to the single-seat RV-3. When the RV-4 first flew in August, 1979, the result was a tandem seating arrangement, which allowed the frontal area to be kept to a minimum, and gave it a top speed of only about 8 knots less than the RV-3. Further, its handling characteristics are said to be “virtually identical” a result that surprised even the Oregon-based kit manufacturer.

The RV-4 is an aerobatic, two-place tandem, low wing monoplane of aluminum monocoque (stressed skin) construction. The propeller is a Cassidy Pacesetter 200 wood prop, which experience with the RV-3 has proven to have excellent overall performance. The engine used was a new Lycoming 0-320. Fuel is carried in two integral wing leading edge tanks. The standard canopy is a single-piece bubble which opens to the side.
It is flown from the front seat only, but the kit includes a stick for the rear-seater. It is designed for engines of 150-160 horsepower, although engines as small as 125 hp and as large as 180 work well and are commonly installed.

The RV-4 is capable of “sport” aerobatics. It was reported that around 600 were flying worldwide and the kit price was $10,905.

Engine: Lycoming 150 hp
Prop: fixed pitch wood
Span: 23 ft
Length: 20 ft 4 in
Height: 5 ft 5 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 905 – 913 lbs
Gross Weight: 1500 lbs
Wing Loading: 13.64 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10.0 – 8.33 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 32 US gal
Baggage: 50 lbs
Top Speed: 201 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 189 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 171 mph
Stall Speed: 48 mph
Top Speed: 200 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 188 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 170 mph
Stall Speed: 54 mph
Takeoff Distance: 475 ft
Landing Distance: 425 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,500 fpm
Ceiling: 18,000 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 640 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 790 sm

Engine: Lycoming 160 hp
Prop: fixed pitch wood
Span: 23 ft
Length: 20 ft 4 in
Height: 5 ft 5 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 905 – 913 lbs
Gross Weight: 1500 lbs
Wing Loading: 13.64 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10.0 – 8.33 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 32 US gal
Baggage: 50 lbs
Top Speed: 205 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 193 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 174 mph
Stall Speed: 48 mph
Top Speed: 204 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 192 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 173 mph
Stall Speed: 54 mph
Takeoff Distance: 450 ft
Landing Distance: 425 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,650 fpm
Ceiling: 19,500 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 640 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 790 sm

Engine: Lycoming 180 hp
Prop: fixed pitch wood
Span: 23 ft
Length: 20 ft 4 in
Height: 5 ft 5 in
Wing Area: 110 sq ft
Empty Weight: 905 – 913 lbs
Gross Weight: 1500 lbs
Wing Loading: 13.64 lb/sq ft
Power Loading: 10.0 – 8.33 lb/hp
Engine: 150-180 hp
Propeller: Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity: 32 US gal
Baggage: 50 lbs
Top Speed: 213 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 201 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 182 mph
Stall Speed: 48 mph
Top Speed: 212 mph
Cruise 75% @ 8000 ft: 200 mph
Cruise 55% @ 8000 ft: 180 mph
Stall Speed: 54 mph
Takeoff Distance: 400 ft
Landing Distance: 425 ft
Rate of Climb: 1,950 fpm
Ceiling: 23,000 ft
Range 75% @ 8000 ft: 590 sm
Range 55% @ 8000 ft: 725 sm