Instructional sport aircraft RV-12iS

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Overview
The RV-12iS is a two-seat, all-metal Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) with a side-by-side cockpit positioned ahead of the wing spar for maximum cabin space and visibility. It is available as a kit-built Experimental LSA (ELSA) or a factory-built Special LSA (SLSA). Wings are quickly removable for trailer transport and off-airport storage.

Key Features

• LSA with nimble handling and general-purpose performance for sport, private or training operations.
• Purchase options: kit-built (ELSA) or ready-to-fly factory-built (SLSA).
• Fast-build kit philosophy with illustrated step-by-step plans.
• Removable wings enable transport and compact storage; two people can remove/install wings in under five minutes.

Specifications (summary)

• Model: RV-12iS
• Engine: 100 HP Rotax 912 iS or Rotax 912 ULS
• Top speed: 144 mph
• Service ceiling: 17,300 ft (w/ 912 iS)
• Stall speed (with flaps): 47 mph
• Fuel capacity: 20 US gal
• Seats: 2
• Cabin width: 43 in
• Baggage capacity: 75 lbs

Performance (highlights)

• Top speed (Rotax 912 iS Sport): 144 mph
• Cruise: 135 mph [5500 rpm @ 7500 ft] / 121 mph [5000 rpm @ 7500 ft]
• Takeoff distance: 700 ft
• Landing distance: 525 ft
• Rate of climb (912 iS Sport): 1,000 fpm
• Range (5000 rpm @ 7500 ft, 912 iS Sport): 660 sm

Benefits of the Rotax 912 iS Sport powerplant

• Improved fuel economy and reduced fuel consumption.
• Computerized engine management simplifies installation and maintenance.
• Higher power and torque for improved climb and cruise performance.
• Additional electrical capacity for lighting and avionics options.

Feature Improvements

• Redesigned cowling for easier removal and improved ground/climb cooling.
• New throttle quadrant eliminating special carb return springs for 912 ULS.
• Electric quick-reacting flaps and revised throttle actuation with rich/lean modes.
• Improved canopy latch and quick-adjust seatback for greater range and ease of use.
• Panel-mounted cockpit handle for entry/exit and dual USB power outlets.
• Reinforced main landing gear attachment for training use.
• Transverse fuel tank for increased baggage volume and easier loading; larger filler neck below rear window (co-pilot side).
• Increased usable baggage capacity and fuel in climb/takeoff attitude.

Fuselage Kit Enhancements

• Pre-bent longerons to simplify assembly.
• Redesigned wiring harness routed for later installation and specific EFIS/avionics choices.
• Point-to-point wiring reducing connection count and eliminating original control box.
• Stick grip with integrated trim, PTT, autopilot disconnect and radio frequency swap.

Removable Wings
Light, easily-removable wings with spar pins behind the seats allow rapid wing removal/installation with automatic engagement of control and wiring connections and an ignition interlock for safety.

Glass Panel and Avionics
Panel configurations are builder-selectable with options including Dynon SkyView HDX and Garmin G3X Touch. VFR packages include radio/intercom, Mode-S/ADS-B-out transponder and 406 MHz ELT. Optional two-axis autopilot and IFR-capable Garmin suites are available.

Building the Kit
The kit is delivered as six sub-kits (tail, wing, fuselage, finish, powerplant, avionics). Builders may order sub-kits separately. Typical unpainted build time: 700–900 hours (varies by experience). Fluids and paint not included.

Kit Sub-components

• Tail Kit: Empennage surfaces and rear fuselage cone components.
• Wing Kit: Wing and flaperon components.
• Fuselage Kit: Components between firewall and rear baggage bulkhead (RV-12iS specific).
• Finish Kit: Cowling, engine mount, canopy, wheels/brakes, nose gear and fuel tank components.
• Powerplant Kit: Rotax 912 iS Sport option, installation kit and Sensenich composite ground-adjustable propeller (912 ULS alternative).
• Avionics Kits: Complete avionics packages, pre-tested fuselage wiring harness and instruments.

Testing and Certification
Extensive structural and performance testing demonstrates compliance with LSA requirements, including landing gear structural evaluation and development tests validating safety and operational use.