In 1995, Van’s decided to re-visit the tandem seating concept. Even though the side-by-side RV-6/6A had become the most popular homebuilt design ever, there was still a significant percentage of pilots who really wanted centerline seating. The consensus seemed to be that a roomier tandem airplane with better cross-country capability would be popular.
A one-of-a-kind demonstrator was built and introduced at Oshkosh in 1995. The response left no doubt about the desire for an airplane like the RV-8. The ground around the display aircraft was beaten into a trench and Van’s personnel were fending off people waving handfuls of cash... but not for too long. The RV-8 went on the market in 1996 and complete kits were available by the end of 1998. In short order, it was followed by the kit for the tricycle gear RV-8A.
The RV-8 is the fastest aircraft in the RV lineup boasting a top speed of over 190 knots while maintaining a range of over 680 miles. Get together with your fellow RV-8 pilots and put on an airshow as the RV-8 complies with the FAA Aerobatics certification of +6/-3Gs. With a fully equipped IFR cockpit, you can fly your aircraft in all kinds of weather, putting your piloting skills to the test.
The following packages are either included in the base sim or available for purchase/download. Note that the inclusion of packages below is not an endorsement of quality or fitness. Potential buyers are highly encouraged to research payware packages through reviews, videos, or other means before purchasing.