In March of 1990 the S-12 Airaile took to the air. It was our first pusher, and soon became an icon of modern UL trainers. Sales have been strong over 16 years in production. To date 1000 kits have been shipped meaning at least 700 to 900 planes are operating worldwide. What makes the S-12 Airaile so popular? It could be a combination of many things, like the tough 4130 cage that forms the main structure, or the low build time, and very nice price. The wise shopper recognizes the quality, great engineering, and fun performance, not to mention the modern sharp looks. It is no wonder the Airaile has sold well, and has flown into the history books as a plane that defined the low and slow niche of the sport plane market.
What lies ahead? The tradition at RANS is to evolve and refine, and you can bet as much will be the case for Airailes. Since 1990 the plane has retained the basic configuration, but been improved and refined to be a combination of performance features that the competition finds hard to top. 1000 and counting. Conrgrats to the S-12 Airaile for starting something that has brought so much flying fun to the world! |
