The Rans S-20 Raven Light Sport Aircraft Has Now Been Approved As A Factory-Built S-LSA

We at ANN first had a good look at the rans S-20 Raven in 2014 while at the light sport Expo in Sebring, FL. It struck us right away as being a great-looking airplane, with lots of good features, and with good flying characteristics. At that time, it was being offered in a kit-built format with S-LSA certification to come in the future. The future is now here.

When ANN CEO and Editor-In-Chief, Jim Campbell, interviewed the founder of RANS Aircraft, Randy Schlitter, at the 2014 Light Sport Expo we found that the S-20 Raven started out as a combination of features from both their model S-6 and S-7 aircraft. Schlitter said at that time of concept they figured it would only be about a 15 percent change to achieve the overall outcome they wanted in the S-20. However, Schlitter said it turned out to be 100 percent of the work involved.

Special light sport certification (S-LSA) means that the aircraft is being produced in accordance with industry establish standards as approved by the FAA. According to RANS, the standard aircraft with the Rotax 912 100- horsepower engine and basic VFR instruments will start in the price range of $119,000. Schlitter pointed out in Jim’s interview that the price could vary because, “Some people go nuts with the instrument panel.”

Certified as an S-LSA, the aircraft is limited to a maximum gross weight of 1320 pounds. As a kit-built aircraft more engine options are available, and the airplane can operate at a higher gross weight. As an LSA, is reported to have a payload of about 580 pounds, a cruise speed of 112 miles per hour, and a range of about 580 miles.

We have no doubt that this taildragger is going to be popular with those who like backcountry flying.

(Image from File)

FMI: www.rans.com     ANN S-20 Video on You Tube