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 conceived in the mid-1980s as a robust, backcountry utility aircraft, designed to be a superior alternative to the Piper Super Cub.
The Husky has undergone continuous significant evolution, incorporating enhancements like increased gross weight, advanced Garmin glass avionics (making 90% IFR-equipped), and an improved rebound-damped landing gear system for enhanced performance, safety, and utility.
While celebrated for its exceptional STOL capabilities and climb performance, the Husky is a demanding tailwheel aircraft that requires proficient pilot skill and thorough recurrent training due to its handling characteristics, particularly adverse aileron yaw.

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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.