Being a tail dragger aficionado since my Citabria ownership days probably gave me a leg up on taking to Belite Aircraft‘s Chipper when I first saw it at Sun N Fun in April. Belite’s president, James Wiebe, made it clear from the start of our conversation in Lakeland that the Chipper was a work in progress and indeed had been shipped to Lakeland aboard a truck. Wiebe said he was creating the experimental Chipper two-place tail dragger as a kit powered by either an 80 or a 100 hp Rotax engine. The Chipper would be a fun airplane to build and fly, especially if short-field characteristics were important to a pilot.
Belite’s Chipper Aircraft Continues Evolving
Key Takeaways:
- Belite Aircraft's Chipper is an experimental two-place taildragger kit plane, designed by James Wiebe, notable for its rapid prototype development and construction using non-traditional materials like composites and honeycomb.
- The Chipper demonstrates impressive short-field performance, with takeoff and landing distances consistently under 400 feet, providing an enjoyable flying experience.
- Its design philosophy emphasizes continuous improvement, with designer James Wiebe constantly developing new features and modifications, adding ongoing value for builders and pilots.
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