We Fly: Aviat Husky

Bushplane is serious fun, but it still demands respect.

Rick Durden

Tuesday, May 06, 2025 at 07:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Word got around about the Aviat Husky’s ability to get in and out short strips and its performance on floats. [Leonard Correa Luna]

Key Takeaways:

The Aviat Husky was developed in the mid-1980s as a "better Super Cub," successfully defying market skepticism to become a robust and enduring backcountry utility aircraft.
Over its history, the Husky has undergone continuous modernization, incorporating significant improvements such as increased useful load, advanced Garmin glass cockpits (now in 90% of sales), an enhanced trim system, and redesigned landing gear for improved safety and handling.
Known for its exceptional STOL capabilities and solid build, the Husky demands proficient tailwheel piloting skills due to its handling characteristics, offering a unique and rewarding flying experience for challenging environments.

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Line up and stop. Confirm full flaps are selected and elevator trim is set. Hold the stick slightly forward of neutral. Slide the throttle from quiet to loud while holding the brakes. Confirm the gauges reflect full power and feel the airplane quiver in anticipation. Can an airplane feel excitement?

Probably not, but you sure can. Now, release the brakes and feel yourself pressed into the seat as you discover less right rudder is needed than you expect. The controls are immediately responsive, and before it even seems possible, the ground disappears as you surge upward.