Rutan Aircraft Factory Long-Ez

Single Piston

The Rutan Long-EZ is a tandem two-seat homebuilt aircraft designed by Burt Rutan in the late 1970s, representing one of the most successful and influential kit aircraft ever created. With its distinctive canard configuration, pusher propeller, and sleek composite construction, the Long-EZ became the template for an entire generation of experimental aircraft and demonstrated that amateur builders could achieve performance rivaling certified production planes. More than 700 were completed worldwide between its 1979 introduction and the end of kit sales in 1985, and many remain active today. Powered typically by a Lycoming O-235 or Continental O-200 engine of 100-118 horsepower, the Long-EZ achieves remarkable efficiency through its clean aerodynamics and lightweight composite airframe. Cruise speeds of 160-180 knots on just 4-5 gallons per hour give it a range exceeding 1,500 nautical miles—performance that embarrassed many certified aircraft of its era. The canard layout provides natural stall resistance and docile handling, while the retractable nose gear and fixed main gear keep complexity manageable for homebuilders. Its 200-knot never-exceed speed and 170-knot max structural cruise speed reflect the robust engineering behind Rutan's design. The Long-EZ's legacy extends far beyond its own production run. It proved that composite construction was practical for homebuilders, inspired countless derivative designs, and launched Burt Rutan's career toward projects like Voyager (the first aircraft to fly around the world without refueling) and SpaceShipOne. Today, the type remains popular in the experimental community for its blend of speed, efficiency, and flying qualities. SkyMeter has tracked 2 flights across 1 airframes and 1 operators, with GAMES, GAMES AND NOTHING BUT...HOLDINGS INC. the largest observed operator.