About the A M HERDENER/D L KIMBALL VANS RV7A
The Van's RV-8A is a popular two-seat, single-engine, low-wing, homebuilt aircraft developed by Van's Aircraft. The company, founded by Richard VanGrunsven in 1972, is renowned in the world of homebuilt aviation for its robust, high-performance aircraft. The RV-8A is a tricycle gear version of the RV-8, and it first flew in the late 1990s. The “A” designation in RV-8A indicates that it features a nosewheel rather than the conventional tailwheel gear found on the RV-8. This configuration appeals to pilots who prefer the handling characteristics and ground stability of a tricycle gear aircraft, often making it easier to handle on the ground compared to taildraggers. The RV-8A, much like the RV-8, was designed with performance and versatility in mind. It offers impressive aerobatic capabilities, with many builders choosing it for sport and recreational flying. The aircraft is known for its speed, agility, and relatively easy construction process, a hallmark of Van's Aircraft designs. One of the key motivations behind the development of the RV-8A was to provide a high-performance aircraft that could be built by amateur constructors while still offering excellent handling and aerobatic qualities. The RV-8A fits into a niche market of sport aviators and those looking for an aircraft that can perform well in cross-country flights and aerobatic maneuvers. Its tandem seating arrangement gives the pilot and passenger better visibility and an authentic military trainer feel, which is part of the allure for many aviation enthusiasts. Benefits of the RV-8A include its excellent performance-to-cost ratio, relatively low building difficulty for a homebuilt aircraft, and strong community support through Van's Aircraft builder networks and fly-in events. The aircraft is a testament to VanGrunsven’s commitment to enabling aviators to construct and enjoy high-performance, versatile aircraft.