Van's Aircraft has flown an improved version of its best-selling RV-6 two-seat aerobatic kitplane. The new RV-7 will make its public debut at the Sun 'n' Fun show later this month.
Aurora, Oregon-based Van's has shipped over 6,000 RV-6 kits since 1986, and more than 1,000 aircraft have been completed. The RV-7 incorporates advances that improve performance and make the all-metal aircraft easier to build.
The RV-7 accommodates Textron Lycoming engines up to 150kW (200hp), compared with 135kW for the RV-6. Never-exceed speed is raised to 200kt (370km/h) and wing-span and fuel capacity are increased. Legroom, headroom, visibility and useful load have also been improved.
Deliveries of the $16,500 RV-7 kit have begun, and completion will be 30% quicker than for the $13,700 RV-6 kit. A quick-build kit will be available later this year. Van's will support RV-6 builders "for the foreseeable future", but may stop selling new kits. Recent buyers may be able to complete their aircraft as an RV-7, Van's says.
Source: Flight International
