Aviat AircraftExperimental & kit · Fixed-wing · United States
Pitts Special
- Seats
- 1 1
- Power
- 180 hp134 kW
- Cruise
- 122 kt225 km/h
- US register
- 31 aircraft31 aircraft
About the Pitts Special
The Aviat Aircraft Pitts Special is a homebuilt fixed-wing light aerobatic biplane originating from the United States. Designed for solo pilots and enthusiasts focused on stunt flying, it features a single-seat open cockpit layout matched with a high-power piston engine. Its compact airframe, short wings, and exceptional power-to-weight ratio give it high agility and a rapid roll rate.
Created by Curtis Pitts, the prototype took its first flight in September 1944. The design evolved into various single-seat and two-seat versions, including factory-built models and plans sold to amateur builders. The Pitts Special famously dominated international stunt flying competitions during the 1960s and 1970s, setting performance standards for aerobatic aircraft that remain popular for air displays and sport flying today.
Engines fitted
29 aircraft| Engine | Power | Share of fleet | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lycoming O-360 | 180 hp | 13 | |
| Lycoming O-320 | 180 hp | 6 | |
| Lycoming O-290 | 140 hp | 5 | |
| Lycoming IO-320 | 150 hp | 4 | |
| Lycoming O-235 | 115 hp | 1 |
Pitts Special running costs
$206 an hour| Low | Typical | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel | $6,191 | $7,954 | $9,229 |
| Oil | $144 | $180 | $234 |
| Engine overhaul reserve | $2,167 | $2,667 | $4,833 |
| Annual inspection and maintenance | $2,500 | $3,500 | $4,500 |
| Hangar | $3,000 | $6,300 | $9,600 |
| Total | $14,002 | $20,601 | $28,396 |
| Per hour | $140 | $206 | $284 |
Engine
- Model
- Lycoming O-360-A1D
- Power
- 180 hp
- Overhaul
- 2,000 h / 12 yr
- Fuel burn
- 8.2 – 10.3 gal/h
- Fuel price
- $8.20 /US gal
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