About the SNYDER EDWARD A RANS S-6ES COYOTE II
The RANS S-6ES Coyote II, produced by RANS Designs, is a highly regarded aircraft within the Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) and homebuilt aircraft communities. The development of the RANS S-6ES traces back to the mid-1980s when the need for a lightweight, easy-to-build, and economical aircraft was apparent, primarily catering to recreational pilots and aviation enthusiasts who desired an efficient and versatile flying experience without the high costs associated with certified aircraft.
RANS Designs, founded by Randy Schlitter in 1983, had already established a reputation for innovative and user-friendly aircraft designs. The S-6ES Coyote II built upon the success of its predecessor, the S-6 Coyote I, by providing several improvements in performance, comfort, and versatility. One of the key motivations for the production of the S-6ES was to offer pilots a more refined aircraft that could serve various purposes, including flight training, leisure flying, and even light utility roles.
Key Features and Capabilities
First introduced in 1989, the S-6ES Coyote II features a fabric-covered airframe with a combination of aluminum and steel in its construction, making it both lightweight and robust. The aircraft's design ensures ease of assembly, complying with the U.S. Experimental Amateur-Built aircraft regulations, which further expands its appeal among homebuilders. Additionally, the S-6ES was designed with affordability in mind, providing an economical option without compromising on safety and performance.
Powered by engines such as the Rotax 912, the S-6ES offers respectable performance with a maximum cruise speed of around 110 mph and a range of approximately 400 miles. The versatile design allows for both tricycle and conventional landing gear configurations, catering to pilot preferences and operational requirements.
Market Position and Use Cases
The RANS S-6ES Coyote II remains popular due to its excellent flying characteristics, ease of maintenance, and the thriving support community surrounding RANS Designs products. Its blend of reliability, efficiency, and affordability makes it an enduring favorite in the world of general aviation and light-sport flying.