Czepiela’s Flight Test Refines Rotax 916 iS Power

CubCrafters pilots gain quicker takeoffs and better climb performance with new software upgrade.

Meg Godlewski

Tuesday, June 02, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Luke Czepiela flies his Carbon Cub UL in the Red Bull livery. [Credit: Michal Ludwiczak]

Key Takeaways:

Red Bull Air Race pilot Luke Czepiela collaborated with RS Flight Systems to refine the Rotax 916 iS engine management software for CubCrafters Carbon Cub aircraft.
This software-only upgrade improves aircraft performance, offering quicker acceleration, enhanced climb performance, increased cruise speed, and better deceleration.
The refinement focuses on tangible pilot feel and responsiveness throughout the flight envelope, making the aircraft more enjoyable to fly.
The upgrade is available immediately and exclusively from CubCrafters for $1,500 for eligible Rotax 916 iS-powered models.

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Red Bull Air Race pilot Luke Czepiela’s pursuit of quicker performance from the CubCrafters Carbon Cub has led directly to a refinement of the Rotax 916 iS engine management software, according to the manufacturer.

Czepiela, one of the world’s most accomplished STOL pilots, is well known throughout the aviation community for his use of Carbon Cub aircraft in numerous Red Bull projects, demonstrations, and performances around the globe.