Bearhawk
Bearhawk Aircraft · USA · first flew 1996 · light aircraft
The Bearhawk is a four-seat, tube-and-fabric STOL homebuilt designed for serious backcountry operations, offering Cessna 182-class utility from a plans-built or kit aircraft. Its large wing and powerful engine give it genuine short-field and high-altitude performance.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.01 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- large high-wing tube-and-fabric STOL aircraft with long-span wing
- wide four-seat cabin with generous side windows
- robust fixed undercarriage with large wheel fairings or tundra tyres
The large, long-span high wing, wide four-seat cabin, and robust tube-and-fabric construction set the Bearhawk apart from lighter homebuilts.
Specifications
- The Bearhawk has a length of 7.01 m (23 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.67 m (35 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 253 km/h (157 mph).
- Typical crew: 1-4.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Bob Barrows designed the Bearhawk in the early 1990s, with first flight in 1996, aiming to create a four-seat homebuilt with the capabilities of a PA-18 Super Cub. The welded steel tube fuselage with aluminium wing spars and fabric covering is conventional but effective. Plans and partial kits are available from Bearhawk Aircraft of Virginia.
Variants
The Bearhawk LSA is a two-seat light sport variant; the Bearhawk Patrol is a two-seat taildragger; the Bearhawk 5 is a five-seat development.
Where you'll see it
Bearhawks are uncommon in the UK but a few hold LAA permits; they find more natural habitat in the North American bush flying scene.
Related aircraft
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