Rans has begun flight testing its S-18 Stinger II ultralight kitplane. The aircraft is a two-seat version of the S-17 Stinger, a 250kg (550lb) gross-weight aircraft powered by a Bombardier Rotax.
The tandem-seat, dual-control S-18 is intended as a training aircraft, but is suitable for sport flying. Powered by a 35kW (47hp) Rotax 503, the tube-and-fabric Stinger II has a cruise speed of 61kt (113km/h).
The kit costs $14,500, including engine, tundra tyres and nose pod, which acts as a fairing for the otherwise open cockpit. Kit deliveries are to begin next March, says Rans.
The company has improved the Stinger's handling and increased durability. The fuselage cage comes already welded and painted.
Source: Flight International
