Here’s a fun little plane with a good design heritage. Something of a sleeper till now, new builder Wings of Freedom is starting to promote the Flitplane. This interesting aircraft is an Ultralight in the best tradition; she comes in well under the 254 pound weight.
True 103 aircraft are more popular than ever as federal regulations remain aviation’s lightest load. The Flitplane joins a welded steel fuselage to aluminum wings covered with dope and fabric. A cleverly laid out cockpit shows marvelously good use of triangulation for strength with the least structure. Her rounded tail preserves some style in the simplicity.
With such a light airframe, Flitplane has enough weight allowance to accommodate a beefy 35 horse engine from 2si that will push the plane enthusiastically into the air. However, this is an ultralight in which to enjoy slow flight. Using a big wing loaded lightly to only 3.4 pounds per square foot, the Flitplane can stall at only 26, cruise at 45, and not exceed 63 mph. Still I found the plane to be full of energy and enjoyable to fly.
You sit close under the wing in the style of Weedhopper. Flitplane’s full span ailerons offer great roll authority that never leave you in doubt.
Best of all, the Flitplane is modestly priced at only $8,000. You can obtain the aircraft ready-to-fly from Wings of Freedom for only $10,500. Fully built planes are quite legal under Part 103. If you choose to build, it should take only 75 hours of assembly.
Aidan says
Are the wings able to be removed and put back on easily for transport?
Julia says
So you don’t need any type of [pilot] license at all? Not even a driver’s license? My son is really into aviation and is 14 years old and has over 2,000 hours in flight simulators regarding airliners. I can just buy one and let him fly it? Nothing else is needed?
Dan Johnson says
It may sound incredulous, but no, a pilot license is not required to fly a machine that complies with Part 103 regulations. Wings Of Freedom‘s Flitplane is only one of many choices. Please see our Part 103 List for dozens more.
Dave Dulaigh says
I want to build the Flitplane. Please send purchase options.
Dan Johnson says
You can find contact information on the Part 103 List. Check the company column for Wings of Freedom. Unknown if they are still pursuing the Fliplane.