Ipanema

The Neiva Ipanema is a Brazilian agricultural aircraft that has become a symbol of versatility and efficiency in crop‑dusting operations. Designed and built by Indústria Aeronáutica Neiva, the model first took to the skies in 1975 as a conventional low‑wing monoplane powered by a 300 hp Lycoming O‑540 engine. Over the decades it evolved through several variants, most notably the Ipanema 203 and the later Ipanema 210, which introduced a modern turboprop version equipped with a 260 hp Rotax 915 iS engine that runs on ethanol, reflecting Brazil’s commitment to renewable fuels. The aircraft’s robust steel tube fuselage, all‑metal wings, and simple fixed‑gear layout give it exceptional durability on rough, unprepared airstrips. Its wide spray booms and high payload capacity allow application of up to 1,200 kg of chemicals per flight, while a spacious cockpit provides excellent visibility for low‑altitude work. The Ipanema’s long production run—exceeding 1,300 units—has made it the workhorse of Brazilian agribusiness and a benchmark for low‑cost, environmentally conscious aerial application worldwide. Its success has also spurred export sales to several Latin American countries, cementing its legacy in regional aviation history.

Neiva

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification