Van's Aircraft RV-12

{{Short description|American kit aircraft}} {{Use mdy dates|date=November 2022}} {{Use American English|date=November 2022}} {{Infobox aircraft |name = RV-12 |image = File:G-RVIZ Vans RV-12 (9681711962).jpg |caption = |type = Light-sport aircraft<ref name="Vans Certification">{{cite web|url = http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12.htm|title = How can an RV-12 be licensed?|access-date = 17 April 2015|last = Vans Aircraft|date = 4 May 2012|archive-date = August 5, 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150805055627/http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12.htm|url-status = dead}}</ref> |national_origin = United States |manufacturer = Van's Aircraft |designer = Richard VanGrunsven |first_flight = November 9, 2006<ref name="Van's RV-12 first flight">{{cite web| url = http://www.aero-news.net/index.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=73a983ee-60b6-4079-bfc1-b3ca575119f0| title = Van's RV-12 Flies!| access-date = 13 April 2019| last = Vans Aircraft | date = 13 April 2019}}</ref> |introduction = 2008 |retired =  |status = Kits and complete aircraft both in production (2021) |primary_user =  |more_users =  |produced = 2008–present (kits)<br/>2012–present (complete aircraft) |number_built = 792 (July 2023)<ref name="VansFirstFlights">{{cite web|url = https://www.vansaircraft.com/public/first-flights.htm|title = First Flights|access-date = 17 July 2023|last = Vans Aircraft|date = July 2023|archive-date = December 9, 2018|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181209165228/https://www.vansaircraft.com/public/first-flights.htm|url-status = dead}}</ref> |developed_from =  |variants =  }}

The '''Van's RV-12''' is an American two-seat, single-engine, low-wing homebuilt airplane eligible for the U.S. E-LSA category, sold in kit form and as a complete ready-to-fly aircraft by Van's Aircraft of Aurora, Oregon.<ref name="KitplanesDec2011">Vandermeullen, Richard: ''2011 Kit Aircraft Buyer's Guide'', Kitplanes, Volume 28, Number 12, December 2011, page 75. Belvoir Publications. {{ISSN|0891-1851}}</ref><ref name="WDLA15">Tacke, Willi; Marino Boric; et al: ''World Directory of Light Aviation 2015–16'', page 86. Flying Pages Europe SARL, 2015. {{ISSN|1368-485X}}</ref> thumb|right|The first RV-12, built by Richard VanGrunsven, at Oshkosh 2008.

The RV-12 had its first flight on November 9, 2006.<ref name="Van's RV-12 first flight" /> Deliveries of partial kits commenced in April 2008 and, as of July 2023, 792 aircraft have been completed and flown.<ref name="VansFirstFlights" /><ref name="AvWeb11Apr08">{{cite web|url = http://www.avweb.com/eletter/archives/avflash/1088-full.html|title = Vans RV-12 Light Sport Aircraft|access-date = 2008-04-11|last = AvWeb Staff|date = April 2000|archive-date = November 26, 2014|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141126083629/http://www.avweb.com/eletter/archives/avflash/1088-full.html|url-status = dead}}</ref>

==Design and development== thumb|right|Two RV-12 wings under construction in a garage. thumb|right|The completed detachable wings stored in a wing stand. thumb|right|RV-12 with Jabiru engine The architect of the line of Van's aircraft, Richard VanGrunsven, designed the RV-12 with several specific goals in mind. These include:<ref name="goals">{{cite web|url = http://www.vansaircraft.com/pdf/12.pdf|title = The RV-12 A New Design From Van’s Aircraft, Inc.|access-date = 13 November 2014|last = Van's Aircraft|date = July 2007|archive-date = October 15, 2006|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061015192244/http://www.vansaircraft.com/pdf/12.pdf|url-status = dead}}</ref> * Flying qualities equal to or better than the standard set by the RV-9A * {{convert|550|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} payload – to carry a projected load of two {{convert|190|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} people, {{convert|120|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} of fuel ({{convert|20|u.s.gal}}) and {{convert|50|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} of baggage or cargo. * {{convert|750|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} aircraft empty weight * Cabin width of {{convert|43|in|cm|0|abbr=on}} * A low parts count, with an aim of reducing kit cost and construction time * Minimal use of composites and maximum use of aluminum * Maximum use of simple hand tools only for construction

The LSA class limits aircraft to a maximum takeoff weight of 1,320 lb (599 kg), a maximum clean, stall speed with no flaps of 51 mph (45 knots) and a maximum level speed of 138 mph (120 knots) and the production RV-12 falls within those maximum limits.<ref name="WDLA15"/><ref name="WDLA11">Bayerl, Robby; Martin Berkemeier; et al: ''World Directory of Leisure Aviation 2011–12'', page 83. WDLA UK, Lancaster UK, 2011. {{ISSN|1368-485X}}</ref>

The prototype incorporated several new features for an RV-series aircraft including: removable wings, full-span flaperons and an all-moving stabilator. It is intended that the RV-12 will be powered by a Rotax 912ULS engine of 100 hp and equipped with a Sensenich composite ground-adjustable propeller, although as a kit aircraft the builder can complete it as they choose.<ref name="WDLA11" />

Originally, the RV-12 was equipped with the Dynon FlightDEK-D180, the Garmin GPS 496, Garmin SL-40, Garmin GTX-327 Transponder, and the Flightcom 403 intercom. The RV-12 avionics kit now comes with the choice of either the 10" Dynon SkyView D-1000 or the Garmin G3X Touch avionics packages. Either package includes synthetic vision, Mode-S transponder, and mapping to replace the Garmin GPS Map 496, and a Garmin GTR 200 to replace the SL-40 transceiver and FliteCom intercom.<ref name="VansAvionics">{{cite web|url = http://www.vansaircraft.com/pdf/order_forms/RV-12/RV-12-avionics.pdf|title = Avionics Order Form|access-date = 27 Jan 2014|last = Vans Aircraft|date = 27 Jan 2014|archive-date = May 12, 2012|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120512035916/http://vansaircraft.com/pdf/order_forms/RV-12/RV-12-avionics.pdf|url-status = dead}}</ref>

Van's aircraft has many optional packages for the RV-12. These options do not change the E-LSA licensing. A lighting package is available, two-axis autopilot, interior package (sidewall covers, carpet, different colors), and wheel fairings to protect the wheels and increase the speed a few knots.<ref name="VansAccessories">{{cite web|url = http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv-12int.htm|title = Can Accessories like lights, or Wheel Fairing be installed?|access-date = 4 May 2012|last = Vans Aircraft|date = 4 May 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120504023022/http://vansaircraft.com/public/rv-12int.htm|archive-date = 4 May 2012}}</ref>

The aircraft received S-LSA approval in July, 2009 making it possible for home builders to license it in either the E-LSA category, simplifying certification requirements, or the experimental, amateur-built category.<ref name="VansRV12">{{cite web|url = http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12.htm|title = RV-12|access-date = 17 April 2015|last = Van's Aircraft|year = 2009|archive-date = August 5, 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150805055627/http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12.htm|url-status = dead}}</ref>

The RV-12 is the first production kit from Van's that is predominantly constructed using blind rivets, which allows the majority of the construction to be done without an assistant. The use of computerized punch machines to punch out most of the rivet holes to final size simplifies construction by minimizing the need to deburr or final size most of the rivet holes.<ref>Kolano, Ed, ''Van's RV-12,'' KitPlanes magazine, Oct. 2008, p. 100</ref> Since the wings are designed to be detached, the majority of the airplane can be constructed in most standard residential garages.

The RV-12 is sold as six sub-kits: wings, fuselage, empennage & tailcone, finishing (cowling, wiring, canopy, etc.), powerplant, and avionics.<ref name="Specs">{{cite web|url = http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12specs.htm|title = RV-12 Specifications|access-date = 2015-04-17|last = Van's Aircraft|year = 2008|archive-date = April 22, 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150422043137/http://vansaircraft.com/public/rv12specs.htm|url-status = dead}}</ref> Van's indicates that they cannot "provide assistance or advice on any deviations from the supplied parts and assembly instructions".<ref name="VansRV12" />

Partial RV-12 kits became available to customers in April 2008, with complete kits made available in the fall of 2008.<ref name="AvWeb11Apr08"/><ref name="RV12">{{cite web|url = http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12.htm|title = RV-12|access-date = 2015-04-17|last = Van's Aircraft|year = 2008|archive-date = August 5, 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150805055627/http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12.htm|url-status = dead}}</ref>

In November 2014 Van's Aircraft and Dynon announced that a two-screen glass cockpit option was available for the RV-12. This can be installed on new-build aircraft and also retro-fitted to aircraft already in service with a single screen.<ref name="AVweb13Nov14">{{cite news|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/newthisweek/New-This-Week223098-1.html|title = New This Week|access-date = 14 November 2014|last = AVweb Staff|date = 13 November 2014|work = AVweb|archive-date = November 13, 2014|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141113183515/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/newthisweek/New-This-Week223098-1.html|url-status = dead}}</ref>

A new variant, the RV-12iS, was introduced in 2017. The RV-12iS is an incremental improvement over the RV-12 which allows the installation of the Rotax 912ULS (carbureted) or the Rotax 912iS (fuel-injected) engines. It also incorporates a new cowling and throttle quadrant design, quick-retracting flaps, a quick-adjusting seat, redesigned landing gear attachments and fuel tank, among other improvements.<ref name="rv12is">{{cite web|url = http://vansaircraft.com/public/rv12iS.htm|title = RV–12iS General Information|access-date = 8 June 2018|author = Van's Aircraft|work = vansaircraft.com|archive-date = June 4, 2018|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180604205244/http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12iS.htm|url-status = dead}}</ref><ref name="rv12isnew">{{cite web|url = http://vansaircraft.com/public/rv12iS_whats-new.htm|title = RV–12iS Whats New|access-date = 8 June 2018|author = Van's Aircraft|work = vansaircraft.com|archive-date = June 10, 2018|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180610141302/http://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12iS_whats-new.htm|url-status = dead}}</ref>

At AirVenture in July 2025, multiple design updates were revealed for the 2026 models. In anticipation of ASTM LSA rule updates to allow flight into IMC, a heated pitot was added in a more traditional under-wing mount, replacing the plastic pitot tube which passed through the spinner. In order to cope with the increased electrical requirements, a 30A BLDC generator was added to the vacuum pump pad on the back of the engine gearbox. A parking brake was added as an option, replacing the previous method of using the towbar to press against the brake pedals when parked. Fuel pumps were updated to the latest design from Rotax to avoid vapor lock in hot/high conditions. The interior features seats with more comfortable foam, a new central armrest features a dedicated emergency hammer holder, and a tray was added to beneath the instrument panel for stowing the POH.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anglisano |first=Larry |date=2025-08-14 |title=Van's RV-12iS: Subtle Changes, MOSAIC Ready - AvBrief.com |url=https://avbrief.com/vans-rv-12is-subtle-changes-better-trainer/ |access-date=2025-11-13 |website=AvBrief |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9BADGQWAC4 |title=AirVenture 2025: Van's RV-12iS Update |date=2025-07-22 |last=AVweb |access-date=2025-11-13 |via=YouTube}}</ref>

===Production=== In October 2012, Van's announced that the company would produce a limited run of twelve fully assembled RV-12s, sold as Special Light-sport Aircraft (SLSAs). The aircraft were assembled from production kits by Synergy Air, with the "Signature Edition" RV-12s costing US$115,000. The run of 12 aircraft was sold out within hours of the announcement and the first one was delivered on 31 May 2013.<ref name="WDLA15"/><ref name="Niles12Oct12">{{cite news|url = http://www.avweb.com/news/aopa/Fly_Away_RV12_207494-1.html|title = Van's To Build 'Fly-Away' RV-12s|access-date = 13 October 2012|last = Niles|first = Russ|date = 12 October 2012|work = AVweb|archive-date = June 10, 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150610200547/http://www.avweb.com/news/aopa/Fly_Away_RV12_207494-1.html|url-status = dead}}</ref><ref name="Niles04Jun13">{{cite news|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Vans_Delivery_RV12_208813-1.html|title = Van's Delivers First Factory-Built RV-12|access-date = 6 June 2013|last = Niles|first = Russ|date = 4 June 2013|work = AVweb|archive-date = June 9, 2013|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130609151647/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Vans_Delivery_RV12_208813-1.html|url-status = dead}}</ref>

In November 2013, the company announced that a follow-up batch of twelve RV-12s, again to be assembled by Synergy Air, would be sold fully equipped for US$123,000 or US$115,000 for the base model. Synergy Air indicated that they expect to produce about 50 aircraft per year on an ongoing basis.<ref name="Grady13Nov13">{{cite news|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/More-Ready-To-Fly-RV-12s-From-Vans220965-1.html|title = More Ready-To-Fly RV-12s From Van's|access-date = 14 November 2013|last = Grady|first = Mary|date = 13 November 2013|work = AVweb}}{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

In August 2018, Van's announced that they would move production of the SLSA RV-12 from Synergy to the Van's factory, with Synergy continuing as a builder assist center.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Vans-Takes-RV-12-Assembly-In-House-231474-1.html|title = Van's Takes RV-12 Assembly In-House|access-date = 15 August 2018|last = Niles|first = Russ|work = AVweb|date = 2 September 2018}}{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

==Operational history== An RV-12 was built by students of Emirates airline to enhance their knowledge and hands-on technical experience, and is used to promote the airline training programmes. The airplane, painted in livery of the Emirates airline, is exhibited in the Emirates Engineering Centre at the Dubai International Airport and was displayed at the 2013 Dubai Airshow.<ref name=emirates_built>{{cite web|url = http://arabiangazette.com/emirates-airline-builds-aircraft-20131109/|title = Emirates Airline builds its own aircraft|publisher = Arabian Gazette|access-date = 13 November 2013|last = AG Reporter|date = 9 November 2013|archive-date = November 15, 2013|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131115073500/http://arabiangazette.com/emirates-airline-builds-aircraft-20131109/|url-status = dead}}</ref>

==Specifications (RV-12is)== ''Data from:'' Van's Aircraft website<ref name="Specs" />

{{Aircraft specs | prime units? = imp| | crew = one pilot | capacity = one passenger | length ft = 19 | length in = 11 | length m = | span ft = 26 | span in = 9 | span m = | height ft = 8 | height in = 4 | height m = | wing area sqft = 127 | wing area sqm = | empty weight lb = 755 | empty weight kg = | gross weight lb = 1,320 | gross weight kg = | max takeoff weight lb = 1,320 | max takeoff weight kg = | eng1 name = Rotax 912iS | eng1 type = with a Sensenich composite ground-adjustable propeller | eng1 number = 1 | eng1 hp = 100 | eng1 kw = 74 | max speed mph = 135 | max speed kts = | max speed kmh = | max speed note = at sea level | cruise speed mph = | cruise speed kts = 117 | cruise speed kmh = | cruise speed note = (7500 ft @ 5500 rpm) | stall speed mph = 47 | stall speed kts = | stall speed kmh = | never exceed speed mph = 156 | never exceed speed kts = | never exceed speed kmh = | range mi = 659 | range note = at cruise 55% power | range km = 893 | ceiling ft = 19,200 | ceiling m = | climb rate ftmin = 1000 | climb rate ms = | wing loading lb/sqft = 10.4 | wing loading kg/m2 = }}

==See also== {{aircontent  |see also=

|related= *Van's Aircraft RV-9  |similar aircraft= *CZAW SportCruiser *Europa XS *Grumman American AA-1 *Rans S-19 Venterra *The Airplane Factory Sling 2 *Thorp T-18  |lists=

|similar engines=

}}

==References== {{reflist|30em}} * [http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/12_31a/briefs/vans_rv12_lsa_192834-1.html Av Web Article about the RV-12]{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} * [http://www.vansaircraft.com/pdf/12.pdf Van's Aircraft RV-12 spec sheet and photo] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061015192244/http://www.vansaircraft.com/pdf/12.pdf |date=October 15, 2006 }} * [http://www.avweb.com/eletter/archives/avflash/739-full.html RV-12 First Flight announcement] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061127085133/http://www.avweb.com/eletter/archives/avflash/739-full.html |date=November 27, 2006 }} * [https://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv12specs.htm RV-12 aircraft information page] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150422043137/http://vansaircraft.com/public/rv12specs.htm |date=April 22, 2015 }} accessed 17 April 2015

==External links== {{Commons category}} *{{Official website|http://www.flyrv12.com/}} *[http://vansaircraft.com/ Van's Aircraft]

Category:Homebuilt aircraft Category:2000s United States civil utility aircraft Category:Light-sport aircraft RV-12 Category:Low-wing aircraft Category:Single-engined tractor aircraft Category:Aircraft first flown in 2006 Category:Aircraft with fixed tricycle landing gear Category:Single-engined piston aircraft