About the aircraft

RV-9A and kitThe two-seat RV-9A is one model in a series of kitplanes designed by Van’s Aircraft in Oregon. All of the RV series are low-wing aircraft of traditional metal construction. Most come in two varieties: tailwheel, and nosewheel (known as the “A” model). The other major choice is tip-up or sliding canopy, but the variations in each plane’s configuration are limited only by the builder’s imagination.

The RV-9(A) is different from its predecessors in that it is not designed for aerobatics. Some see it as a particularly well-rounded RV, as the longer wings reportedly contribute to greater stability, but the handling “feel” of the RV series is still present. The RV-9(A) sacrifices a few knots of top speed compared to the other models, but also stalls slower-which can mean easier to land and less energy on impact in the event of a crash. The long wing is reportedly quite happy at high cruising altitudes. One local builder often reports his “fun flights” around the area at fuel flows in the 3-4GPH range, at a speed which still beats most training/rental airplanes.

RV series aircraft are the most popular kitplane produced, with over 6,000 aircraft completed and flying around the world (the total experimental fleet is around 30,000 in the USA). There is also a strong support network through local builder groups, such as the Minnesota Wing, and online sites like RivetBangers and Van’s Air Force. This network of people with experience is part of what drew me to this series of aircraft; knowing that other people had been able to finish the project, and were willing to help those working on their own.

RV-9A Specifications (based on 160hp engine):

Exterior Dimensions
Wingspan 28 ft
Length 20 ft 5 in
Height 7 ft 10 in
Wing Area 124 sq ft
Weights
Empty Weight 1028 – 1075 lbs
Gross Weight 1600 – 1750 lbs
Loadings (160hp)
Wing Loading 14.1 lb/sq ft
Power Loading 10.9 lb/hp
Powerplant/Systems
Engine
118 -160 hp
Propeller Fixed or C/S
Fuel Capacity 36 US gal
Other
Baggage Capacity
75 lbs
Speed – Solo Weight / Gross Weight
Top Speed 195 mph / 194 mph
Cruise [75% @ 8000 ft] 187 mph / 186 mph
Cruise [55% @ 8000 ft] 167 mph / 166 mph
Stall Speed 44 mph / 50 mph
Ground Performance – Solo Weight / Gross Weight
Takeoff Distance 300 ft / 475 ft
Landing Distance 300 ft / 450 ft
Climb/Ceiling – Solo Weight / Gross Weight
Rate of Climb 1,900 fpm / 1,400 fpm
Ceiling 24,500 ft / 18,500 ft
Range
Range [75% @ 8000 ft] 700 sm
Range [55% @ 8000 ft] 850 sm

There are currently 2 responses to “About the aircraft”

Why not let us know what you think by adding your own comment! Your opinion is as valid as anyone elses, so come on... let us know what you think.

  1. 1 On October 1st, 2009, Jamie Bergen said:

    I am just starting an RV9a, located in Apple Valley, MN. I would like to discuss your project and some of the things you have run into if possible.

    Regards,
    Jamie
    952 484 0811

  2. 2 On September 8th, 2021, AntonioDug said:

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