Kolb Aircraft Firefly

Single Piston

The Kolb Firefly is an American ultralight and light sport aircraft designed for recreational flying, built by Kolb Aircraft Company of Pennsylvania. First introduced in the early 1990s as a successor to earlier Kolb designs, the Firefly is a high-wing, strut-braced aircraft typically sold as a kit for amateur construction, featuring tube-and-fabric construction that keeps empty weight below 600 pounds. Its slow-flight characteristics and short-field performance make it popular among bush pilots and backcountry enthusiasts who value its ability to operate from unimproved strips and tight spaces. The Firefly's docile handling and stall speed below 30 knots allow it to qualify under both US ultralight regulations (Part 103) and the UK's deregulated microlight category, depending on configuration and installed equipment. With a cruise speed around 70-80 knots and a never-exceed speed of 120 knots, it occupies the lower end of the performance spectrum but offers exceptional visibility from its tandem or side-by-side cockpit and remarkably low operating costs. SkyMeter has tracked 4 flights across 1 airframes and 1 operators, with distinct routes observed.