Pitts Special S-2A (Modified)

  • Period: 1970-1979
  • Uses: Aerobatics
  • First Flight: 1973
  • Display Status: In Reserve Hangar.

Pitts Specials carry a high profile in the world of sport aviation as they are acknowledged to be one of the world’s leading aerobatic aircraft, winning more competitions than any other type in history. These nimble aircraft incorporate different upper and lower wing sections that provide inverted performance equal to conventional “right side up” flight. This wing design also facilitates outside loops. The original Pitts design dates from the early 1940s and over the years more powerful engines and various aerodynamic modifications have led to several models that are capable of unlimited aerobatics carrying two persons.

Museum Example

  • Registration #: C-FAMR
  • Manufacturer: Pitts Aviation Enterprises Incorporated, United States
  • Manufacture Date: 1973
  • Serial #: 2059
  • Acquisition Date: 2002
  • Provenance: Donation with cultural property certification

The Museum’s example is the last surviving aircraft from the famous Carling Red Cap civilian aerobatic team of the 1970s. It has been flown on a regular basis since and over the years has been modified to incorporate changes made to later models. It flew as a member of successor aerobatic teams such as the Canadian Reds and the Ray-Ban Golds. Throughout its operational career, its spectacular performances have inspired many young Canadians to become involved in aviation. Its present finish and markings reflect its last years as a member of the Ray-Ban Golds.

Specifications

Wing Span (upper):
6.1 m (20 ft)
Length:
5.7 m (18 ft 9 in)
Height:
2 m (6 ft 7 in)
Weight, Empty:
522 kg (1,150 lb)
Weight, Gross:
737 kg (1,625 lb)
Cruising Speed:
280 km/h (175 mph)
Max Speed:
340 km/h (210 mph)
Rate of Climb:
820 m (2,700 ft) /min
Service Ceiling:
6,400 m (21,000 ft)
Range:
515 km (320 mi)
Power Plant:
Lycoming IO-540-D4A5, 260 hp