Van's Aircraft RV-9
Van's Aircraft · United States · first flew 1997 · light aircraft
The Van's Aircraft RV-9 is a two-seat side-by-side low-wing homebuilt monoplane designed specifically for cross-country touring efficiency rather than aerobatic performance, using a higher-aspect-ratio wing than other RV models.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 6.22 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- High-aspect-ratio wing optimised for cross-country efficiency, not aerobatics
- Two-seat side-by-side low-wing homebuilt; available in RV-9 (tailwheel) and RV-9A (nosewheel)
- Lycoming O-235 or O-320 engine gives gentle handling and long range
Very similar in appearance to the RV-7 but with a slightly longer, more slender wing visible in the higher aspect ratio; distinguishable from the RV-10 by its narrower two-seat cockpit; the RV-9A's nosewheel is an immediate differentiator from the tailwheel RV-9.
Specifications
- The Van's Aircraft RV-9 has a length of 6.22 m (20 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 8.53 m (28 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 315 km/h (196 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First flown in 1997, the RV-9 was designed to fill the gap between the more sporty RV-6/7 and a true touring aircraft, offering greater range and more economical cruise with a modest engine. The RV-9A nosewheel variant followed to provide easier ground handling for pilots transitioning from tricycle-gear training aircraft.
Variants
The RV-9 (tailwheel) and RV-9A (nosewheel) are the two standard variants; powerplant options range from the Lycoming O-235 to the O-320.
Where you'll see it
Operated by private owners in the experimental amateur-built category worldwide; not in military or commercial service.
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- Van's RV-8
- Van's RV-7
- Van's Aircraft RV-10
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