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 on a software refinement for the Rotax 916 iS engine management in CubCrafters Carbon Cubs to enhance performance.
This software-only upgrade improves takeoff acceleration, climb performance, cruise speed, and deceleration for a more responsive flying experience.
The refinement was a result of Czepiela's extensive experience pushing the Carbon Cub's performance envelope in demanding environments.
The performance software upgrade is immediately available exclusively from CubCrafters for $1,500 for eligible aircraft.

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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.