Sportavia RS 180 Sportsman
Sportavia-Pützer · Germany · first flew 1978 · light aircraft
The Sportavia RS 180 Sportsman is a lightweight two-seat single-engine touring aircraft from the West German manufacturer Sportavia-Pützer, designed for economical cross-country flying and club use.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.15 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- German low-wing single-engine touring aircraft from the 1970s
- Side-by-side two-seat with a bubble canopy
- Related to the Sportavia Fournier RF series motorgliders
A conventionally configured low-wing two-seater with a somewhat long, slender wing for its class, reflecting the motorglider heritage of the manufacturer. The bubble canopy and clean lines are distinguishing features.
Specifications
- The Sportavia RS 180 Sportsman has a length of 7.15 m (23 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.5 m (34 ft).
- Typical crew: 1 pilot + 1 passenger.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Sportavia-Pützer, a company known for its Fournier RF motorglider licence production, developed the RS 180 in the late 1970s as a practical touring aircraft. First flown in 1978, it was produced in modest numbers for European general aviation operators before production ceased. The company also produced the Rheinland RS 180 under a slightly different marketing name.
Variants
Only one main production variant is documented for the RS 180 Sportsman.
Where you'll see it
Operated by private owners and aero-clubs primarily in West Germany and neighbouring European countries; a rare type with limited international distribution.
Related aircraft
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