Aviat Pitts S-1

The single-seat biplane built for pure aerobatic precision.

Overview

Aviat United States ICAO: PTS1 1944–Present Active $200,000

The Aviat Pitts S-1 traces its lineage to Curtis Pitts’ compact aerobatic designs of the 1940s. Known for its short wingspan and high roll rate, the aircraft became a staple of competitive aerobatics. It remains closely associated with American sport flying.

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Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Lycoming IO-360 fuel injected
Engine type
Piston
Power
200 hp · 149 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
1
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
17 ft 9 in  ·  5.41 m
Tail height
6 ft 4 in  ·  1.94 m
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
20 ft 0 in  ·  6.10 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
1,500 lb  ·  700 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
350 lb  ·  150 kg
Fuel capacity
20 gal · 100 L · 100 kg (AvGas)
Max cruise speed
113 kt  ·  130 mph  ·  209 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
298 nm  ·  340 mi  ·  550 km
Fuel burn
64.00 nm/gal  ·  31.31 km/L
Ceiling
20,000 ft  ·  6,100 m
Rate of climb
2,600 ft/min  ·  13 m/s
Takeoff distance
300 ft  ·  90 m
Landing distance
500 ft  ·  150 m
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Pitts Special S-1 aircraft

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Operational Context

Aviat Pitts S-1 — single-seat aerobatic biplane

The original Pitts Special first flew in 1944, with production S-1 variants entering service in the 1960s. Its steel tube fuselage and fabric covering kept weight low while maintaining structural strength. The aircraft’s compact biplane configuration delivers rapid control response.

Most S-1 versions are powered by a Lycoming piston engine producing between 180 and 200 horsepower. Cruise speed typically approaches 120 knots (222 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is approximately 1,150 pounds (522 kg), reflecting its focused aerobatic role.

The S-1 became dominant in aerobatic competitions during the 1960s and 1970s. Its handling characteristics reward experienced pilots and precise control inputs. Production continues in limited numbers through Aviat Aircraft, preserving the Pitts legacy.