About the JAMES PHILLIPS RV-10
The Van's Aircraft RV-10 is a four-seat, single-engine, low-wing homebuilt aircraft developed and produced by Van’s Aircraft, an American company known for its popular line of kit-built airplanes. The RV-10 marked Van’s first foray into the four-seat aircraft market, building on the company’s reputation for two-seat designs that began with the RV-3 in the early 1970s.
First announced in 2000 and with its prototype making its first flight in 2003, the RV-10 was created to meet the demand for a high-performance, four-seat aircraft that retained the efficiency, ease of handling, and affordability that Van’s Aircraft designs are renowned for. This model filled a niche in the general aviation market for a kit-built aircraft that could comfortably accommodate a family or small group of passengers while delivering excellent performance and utility.
Key Features and Capabilities
The RV-10 is powered by a Lycoming IO-540 engine, offering a balance of power and reliability. It features a cruise speed of around 200 mph (322 km/h) and a range of approximately 1,000 miles (1,609 km), making it suitable for cross-country flights. The aircraft’s design emphasizes ease of construction and maintenance, essential features for the homebuilt market. This included detailed building instructions and ample customer support.
One of the key benefits of the RV-10 is its versatility. It can handle a variety of flying conditions, from short local trips to longer cross-country flights, often with impressive performance metrics and fuel efficiency. Moreover, the aircraft has a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for four adults, ample baggage space, and an ergonomic design for reduced pilot fatigue on long flights.
Market Position and Use Cases
Since its introduction, the RV-10 has enjoyed significant popularity among the general aviation community, with many units flown worldwide. Its success underscores Van’s Aircraft’s ability to innovate and meet the evolving needs of aviation enthusiasts. In summary, the RV-10 stands out as an embodiment of Van’s Aircraft’s commitment to delivering high-performance, user-friendly, and cost-effective aircraft solutions.