SIPA S.90

The SIPA S.90 was a French two‑seat light aircraft developed in the early 1950s by Société Industrielle Pour l’Aéronautique (SIPA). Conceived as a primary trainer for aero clubs and military flight schools, the prototype first flew on 5 July 1951 and quickly entered production. Its simple yet robust construction used a wooden frame covered with fabric, while the fuselage employed a welded steel tube structure, giving the aircraft a low weight of about 500 kg empty. Powered originally by a 65 hp Continental A65 flat‑four engine, later versions received the more powerful 90 hp Mathis G‑4R, improving climb rate and cruise speed to roughly 180 km/h. The S.90 featured a modest wingspan of 9.5 m, fixed tailwheel undercarriage and dual controls, making it ideal for student pilots. Over 300 units were built, serving not only in France but also in Africa and South America, where their ease of maintenance and forgiving handling earned high praise. Though it never achieved the fame of larger trainers, the SIPA S.90 played a crucial role in post‑war pilot training, helping to revitalize general aviation in Europe and providing a reliable stepping stone for countless aviators.