Zlin Savage Cub
Zlin Aviation · Czech Republic · first flew 2003 · light aircraft
The Zlin Savage Cub is a Czech ultralight and light sport aircraft deliberately styled after the classic Piper J-3 Cub, marketed for bush flying, float operations, and recreational flying under light-sport aircraft regulations.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 6.6 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Tandem two-seat fabric-covered high-wing ultralight with deliberate Cub-style appearance
- Tundra balloon tyres or floats common on bush-configured examples
- Rotax engine in a streamlined cowling replacing the original flat-four engine profile
Virtually indistinguishable from a Piper J-3 Cub at a distance — fabric-covered high-wing tandem two-seater. Closer inspection reveals a more modern cowling with a Rotax engine and aluminium-framed doors rather than steel tube. Tundra tyres or floats are common on bush-equipped examples.
Specifications
- The Zlin Savage Cub has a length of 6.6 m (22 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.5 m (34 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 165 km/h (103 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Produced by Zlin Aviation of Prostejov, Czech Republic (distinct from the historic Zlin aircraft company), the Savage Cub was introduced in the early 2000s and gained popularity in Europe and North America as light-sport aircraft rules opened new markets for modern Cub-style designs. It is constructed from metal tube and fabric and approved under ASTM light sport standards.
Variants
The Savage Cub is one of a family including the Savage Classic, Savage Cruiser, and Savage Bobber; all share a common lineage but differ in engine options, with the Rotax 912 and 914 most common. Float and ski versions are offered.
Where you'll see it
Sold globally as a light sport and ultralight aircraft; popular among bush pilots in Scandinavia, Canada, and the United States who want a modern certification-compliant Cub-style aircraft capable of operating from water and rough terrain.
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