Vans Aircraft Rv-10

Single Piston

The Vans RV-10 is a four-seat, single-engine kit aircraft that has become one of general aviation's most successful homebuilt designs since its introduction in 2003. Built by Vans Aircraft of Aurora, Oregon, the RV-10 was the company's first four-place model, expanding the legendary RV series beyond its two-seat sport aircraft roots. The design emphasizes cross-country capability, offering true four-adult seating, a roomy cabin, and a 60-gallon fuel capacity that enables 700-nautical-mile range at cruise speeds around 170 knots. Powered typically by a Lycoming IO-540 producing 260 horsepower, the RV-10 delivers performance that rivals or exceeds many certified four-seat singles while maintaining the efficiency and handling characteristics that made the RV line famous among builders and pilots. The aircraft's all-metal construction uses matched-hole technology that simplifies the build process, with most builders completing their projects in 1,800 to 2,500 hours. The RV-10's operating envelope includes a never-exceed speed of 200 knots, a max structural cruising speed of 180 knots, and gentle stall characteristics with full-flap stall speed around 45 knots. Its 2,700-pound maximum takeoff weight and relatively low wing loading contribute to docile handling and short-field capability, while the constant-speed propeller and retractable landing gear option allow builders to optimize for either simplicity or maximum performance. Over 3,000 RV-10 kits have been delivered worldwide, with hundreds flying and more completing construction each year, making it the dominant four-seat homebuilt in its class. SkyMeter has tracked flights across airframes and operators, with the largest observed operator.