All that performance and room for four? Van’s new RV-10 reportedly showed the same spirit as its two-place predecessors (albeit with a larger engine) as it leapt off the runway in 450 feet on its maiden flight Friday. The family-sized version of the world’s most popular kitplane — 3,261 of Van’s Aircraft have been completed and flown, so far — took off with “Van” himself at the controls and spent about half an hour doing basic control input checks and monitoring engine temperatures. The successful first flight was completed on schedule and that means kits may be available by the end of the year. Quick-build versions will be available and partial quick builds are being considered. According to the Van’s Web site, the boss was happy with his company’s newest creation: “Van described the RV-10 as a very pleasant airplane to fly.” With a six-cylinder IO-540 (260 hp) up front, the RV-10 is designed to give the same type of performance as a 180-hp RV-7A, which is a 200 mph cruise and 1,600 fpm climb. Engine options might range as low as 200 hp. The RV-10 has a useful load of about 1,100 pounds and carries 60 gallons of fuel.
Four-Place RV-10 Flies
Key Takeaways:
- Van's new four-seat RV-10 kitplane successfully completed its maiden flight, demonstrating strong performance with its 260 hp engine and described as "very pleasant to fly."
- Designed for family use, the RV-10 aims for a 200 mph cruise and 1,600 fpm climb, with a useful load of 1,100 pounds.
- Kits for the RV-10 are anticipated to be available by the end of the year, with quick-build versions also planned.
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