Hangar Find: 1990 Super Fly
This 1990 Super Fly Experimental airplane has not seen any action for a while, and it currently languishes in an airport hangar. It is looking for someone who is willing to return it to the skies, so if that person is you, or maybe someone that you know, you will find the Super Fly located in Ponca City, Oklahoma, and listed for sale here on eBay. Bidding has reached $810 in what appears to be a No Reserve auction.
When I was reading the description for this ‘plane, the words that jumped off the screen at me were, “structurally good condition.” This is always a reassuring factor when you find yourself several thousand feet off the ground. It isn’t clear just how long it has been since this craft last took to the skies, but a bit of investigation suggests that it may have been around mid-2018. Naturally, the craft is going to require a pretty thorough inspection before the next owner even contemplates heading off into the wide blue yonder. Nothing would tend to spoil your day more than reaching cruising altitude only to find a wing or other major component making a bid for freedom. One aspect of the design of this craft that I really like is the huge plexiglass canopy. That certainly offers the prospect of some pretty panoramic views once airborne.
Powering the Super Fly is a Rotax twin-cylinder aircraft engine. It isn’t clear exactly what model this engine is, but it does appear as though it might be a 50hp Model 503 2-stroke. These were a popular fitment to ultra-light aircraft right up until production ended in 2011. Of course, with this craft being a single-seater, it would certainly qualify within the category of an ultra-light. It isn’t clear whether the engine currently runs, but getting a Rotax running and in good health isn’t a big issue.
The Super Fly is a single-seater and is designed for short-haul flights at lower altitudes. The open cockpit sides would mean that things could get pretty cold quite quickly as altitudes climb. The cockpit isn’t loaded up with instruments beyond what would be considered to be essential for safe flying. Its equipment would be ideal for the amateur aviator set upon going on a short weekend jaunt. However, the coating of dust and cobwebs once again are a pointer that every aspect of the craft will require inspection and testing before it sees active use once again.
If you have always harbored the desire to learn to fly, now might be a good time to consider turning that dream into a reality. Bidding is very low on the 1990 Super Fly, and being such a specialist piece of equipment, there might be an opportunity to score a bargain with this one. What do you think? Are you tempted?
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Comments
With a name like that I was expecting a bit more bling.
You want to trust your life to a snowmobile motor, be my guest.( How fast can you change a set of plugs?) I always thought ultralights were pretty cool. Perfect for spotting those rusty Chargers in the swamps. The thing going for you when the motor cuts out, it’s basically a glider and you can probably set ‘er down somewhere. Experimental planes get a bad rap, someone usually has a mishap at Oshkosh, but you want to fly on a budget, this is the only way, jumping out of an airplane is not an option either.
Nooooo thanks, I love life too much.
Not assembled in an aircraft factory like certified aircraft. Going to risk your life that the guy who did assemble used the correct hardware in the correct locations to the correct torque spec?
No thanks!
Breaking News: At about 9:00pm, it’s almost off the charts at $1,111.oo !! Peace
Adam, It isnt being offered as an Ultralight, it is an Experimental aircraft. There is a big difference in the maintenance and pilot certification requirements, which brings the resale value way down. It is very unlikely it could be an Ultralight in this configuration as it is very difficult to get under the 254 lb weight limit. It is likely closer to 350 lbs with the fabric coverings, cowl, instruments, wheel pants and and dual surface wings. Unless you can get the paperwork it is very hard to re-register these to make them airworthy and the ad says nothing about its certificates.
The Rotax 503 is one of the best ultralight engines made, very reliable if jetted and maintained. Easily capable of 65+ hp, they are detuned to 50. I REALLY don’t like the home made ducting for cooling. The bid is in line with a good condition 503DCDI by itself. Not sure if you will see it go much higher, I wouldn’t even offer the current bid in this condition unless it was airworthy and FLYING. Not sure what people are bidding, perhaps they think it is an Ultralight (its not).
I fly Quicksilver Ultralights all the time and you are missing one of the great joys of life! But, as the 80’s fad (and mortality rate) proved, they are NOT for beginners. Get trained, strap yourself into one. What an experience!
That is what I was wondering if it was an ultra lite.