Pipistrel Virus

Pipistrel · Slovenia · first flew 1999 · light aircraft

The Pipistrel Virus is a Slovenian two-seat composite light aircraft renowned for its exceptional fuel efficiency and speed, produced by Pipistrel from 1999 onwards in multiple variants. It is one of the most aerodynamically refined light aircraft in the LSA and ULM categories.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Low-mounted, tapered
E — Engines	1 × piston, nose-mounted
F — Fuselage	6.5 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Slovenian side-by-side two-seat composite light aircraft with outstanding fuel efficiency
Low-wing monoplane with a T-tail and a bubble-type canopy
Holds multiple efficiency and speed records for its engine class

A very clean low-wing composite two-seater with a distinctive high T-tail, a large wraparound canopy, smooth fuselage blending, and an unusually slim profile for a side-by-side aircraft.

Specifications

The Pipistrel Virus has a length of 6.5 m (21 ft).
It has a wingspan of 10.71 m (35 ft).
Its maximum speed is 283 km/h (176 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Pipistrel developed the Virus as a high-efficiency touring aircraft, and it quickly established a reputation by winning the 2007 and 2008 NASA Green Flight Challenges and numerous efficiency competitions. The design has been continuously refined over two decades.

Variants

The Virus SW 121 is the standard wing version; the Virus SW 80 uses an 80hp engine; the Virus SW 128 has a larger engine. A 914-powered turbocharged variant (Virus 912 iS) is also produced.

Where you'll see it

Used worldwide by private owners and flying clubs for touring; not used militarily. Popular in Europe, Australia, and North America.

Related aircraft

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