Van's Aircraft Rv-9/Rv-9a

Single Piston

The Van's RV-9 is a two-seat homebuilt aircraft that has become one of the most popular kit planes in general aviation since its introduction in 1997. Designed by Richard VanGrunsven, the RV-9 was created as a more docile, touring-oriented alternative to Van's aerobatic RV series, emphasizing cross-country efficiency and ease of construction over raw performance. The type is available in two variants: the RV-9 with conventional tricycle landing gear and the RV-9A with tailwheel configuration, both sharing the same wing and fuselage. Powered typically by a Lycoming O-320 or O-360 engine producing 150 to 180 horsepower, the RV-9 cruises comfortably at 170 knots while delivering exceptional fuel economy of around 6 gallons per hour. Its docile handling characteristics, including a relatively high stall speed of 51 knots clean and 45 knots in landing configuration, make it accessible to pilots transitioning from certified trainers. The aircraft's construction uses matched-hole technology that significantly reduces build time compared to earlier kit designs, with most builders completing their RV-9 in 1,200 to 1,800 hours. The type's popularity stems from its blend of cross-country capability, reasonable operating costs, and the satisfaction of flying an aircraft you built yourself. SkyMeter has tracked 477 flights across 207 airframes and 185 operators, with KINCHELOE ED, KINCHELOE DONNA the largest observed operator.