Pitts S-1/ S-2 Special

Background

Curtiss Pitts' prototype 'Special' was first flown in 1944, and factory built aircraft began production in 1947. The biplane sport aircraft is available as a single seat S-1 or two seat S-2 model. The aircraft is also a favourite with home-builders. Powerplants range from 90 to 260hp (Lycoming AEIO-540), with 180hp being typical. The factory built aircraft are designated 'S' and homebuilts as 'D' models. The Special has become one of the world's classic aerobatic aircraft, being chosen as the mount of a number of aerobatic champions.

As at July 1, 1998, ten S-1 and seven S-2 aircraft appeared on the New Zealand register. Two of the S-1's are factory built as compared, to one of the S-2's being homebuilt. Although this aircraft, ZK-ECO (illustrated below), was built up from components from a damaged aircraft by Chris Roberts to produce a prizewinner.

Last Text Update:- July 1, 1998
Last Picture Update:- 2 December, 2002

Technical Data

Data is for S-1

Accommodation : 1
Dimensions
- Span : 5.28m (17'4ft)
- Length : 4.72m (15'6ft)
- Height : m (ft)
Weight
- empty : 326kg (720lb)
- max : 521kg (1,1150lb)
Power Plant : 180hp Lycoming IO-360-B4A
Performance :

max speed : 285km/h (177mph)
max climb : ft/min (m/min)
ceiling : 22,300ft (6,795m)
range : 507 km (315miles)