When James and Kathy Wiebe acquired the production rights to the Kitfox-Lite kitplane, they formed Belite Aircraft, with the intention of placing the aircraft on yet a further weight reduction program. The result is a redesigned version of the legacy Kitfox; this one aimed at an empty weight of less than 245 pounds. That would place the airplane within FAA’s Part 103 ultralight category. The extensively redesigned high-wing taildragger flew (a crowhop) for the first time recently near the company’s Wichita headquarters. Engine choice for the final product is still under consideration. As part of the weight reduction, carbon fiber is planned for many parts that were previously constructed of aluminum, such as the wing struts, spars and ribs. James Wiebe said the airplane will be on display at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh later this month, where he will reveal more details on pricing and availability for deliveries.
Kitfox-Lite Reborn as an Ultralight
Key Takeaways:
- Belite Aircraft has extensively redesigned the Kitfox-Lite kitplane with the goal of achieving an empty weight under 245 pounds.
- This weight reduction aims to place the aircraft within the FAA's Part 103 ultralight category, utilizing carbon fiber for many components.
- The redesigned high-wing taildragger recently completed its first "crowhop" flight and will be showcased at EAA AirVenture.
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