FAA Approval Allows Full Combo-Plate Of Mods For PA-18

The news Piper PA-18 Super Cub ownerss have been waiting for has finally arrived: CubCrafters announced the availability of an FAA-approved Supplemental Type Certificate, or STC, that increases the gross weight of the legendary aircraft to 2,300 lbs, more than 30% higher than the original specifications.

The news comes after CubCrafters has been working on the down-low for years with industry partners including Lycoming, Hartzell, and Garmin to make the Super Cub even better. And now, owners interested in a full overhaul of the iconic aircraft can access a modernization that increases its speed, range, and payload as well as modern avionics to make the aircraft’s utility and safety more in line with newer modern designs. All with full FAA approval.

This is the only STC that allows the 2,300 lb gross weight for a certified PA-18. It was made possible through the professional engineering work of CubCrafters to ensure that the package of STC modifications are complimentary to each other. That is, they do not conflict, interfere, or create any safety issues when installed together.

Normally, shops or technicians are responsible for ensuring that the installation of multiple STCs are compatible with each other. This STC allows CubCrafters to combine six core mods into a single package. The mods include: a 180 hp engine, vortex generators, extended landing gear, heavy-duty tailwheel, stronger wings, and a reinforced fuselage.

These are all combined into a single STC that enables the GW increase. And for third-party installers, it eliminates the uncertainty and risk that typically comes with stacking multiple STCs from different providers.

The PA-18 SuperCub has been the light aircraft workhorse in the backcountry for more than 70 years, and this represents the first real program to modernize the aircraft in decades.

FMI:  cubcrafters.com/