Van's Aircraft
RV-6
The Van’s RV‑6 is a two‑seat, low‑wing, kit‑built aircraft that has become one of the most popular designs in the home‑building community. Developed in the early 1970s by aircraft designer Ray VanGrunsven, the RV‑6 was introduced in 1975 as a tandem‑seated evolution of the successful RV‑4, offering improved performance, greater comfort, and a more versatile cockpit layout. Builders assemble the aircraft from supplied plans and kits, allowing a wide range of engine choices; the most common powerplant is the Lycoming O‑235 or O‑320, delivering 115–160 horsepower and enabling cruise speeds near 180 knots with excellent climb rates.
Key features include an all‑metal airframe with a semi‑monocoque structure, fully faired retractable landing gear on the later RV‑6A variant, and a responsive, aerobatic‑capable handling envelope. The aircraft’s simple construction, low operating costs, and impressive glide ratio have made it a favorite for sport pilots, cross‑country flyers, and aerobatic enthusiasts alike. Its significance lies in democratizing high‑performance flight; the RV‑6 demonstrated that a kit aircraft could rival factory‑built trainers in speed, agility, and safety, inspiring decades of innovation in the experimental aviation sector. Today, thousands of RV‑6s continue to fly worldwide, showcasing the enduring appeal of Van’s design philosophy.
Key features include an all‑metal airframe with a semi‑monocoque structure, fully faired retractable landing gear on the later RV‑6A variant, and a responsive, aerobatic‑capable handling envelope. The aircraft’s simple construction, low operating costs, and impressive glide ratio have made it a favorite for sport pilots, cross‑country flyers, and aerobatic enthusiasts alike. Its significance lies in democratizing high‑performance flight; the RV‑6 demonstrated that a kit aircraft could rival factory‑built trainers in speed, agility, and safety, inspiring decades of innovation in the experimental aviation sector. Today, thousands of RV‑6s continue to fly worldwide, showcasing the enduring appeal of Van’s design philosophy.
Classification
Production & History
- First Flight
- 1986
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Manufacturer
- Van's Aircraft
- Wikidata ID
- Q3554378