Test Flying Van’s RV Aircraft Fleet: IFR + Aerobatics in one plane?! Part 1

No one airplane covers all missions… But the RV-14 comes close!
Proud to be associated with ForeFlight: www.foreflight.com/flightchops/
Visit www.FlightChops.com for behind the scenes and monthly GiveAways!
For over 120 curated episodes, from Tail Wheel and Aerobatics, to IFR and WarBirds!
Please visit www.FlightChops.com for details!
To learn more about Van’s Aircraft please visit:
www.vansaircraft.com/
And thanks to JP for being a part of this and several recent adventures.
Check out his awesome VLOGS:
/ the_candourist
Huge thanks to all the Supporters on Patreon! Productions like this wouldn't be possible without your help!
For those that haven't seen it, please check the Flight Chops Patreon page to find out how you can be a part of it
- The 3 raw CubCrafters flights, PLUS backcountry training in the FX-3 are available, on top of several dozen other exclusive uncut flights for supporters to view!
/ flightchops
_____
Sponsor / Supporter Links:
ForeFlight
www.foreflight.com/flightchops/
Bose Aviation
www.bose.com/a20
Flying Eyes
Get your discount by entering "flightchops" at checkout!
flyingeyesoptics.com/ref/flig...
CloudAhoy
www.cloudahoy.com/P/flightchops/
The Finer Points of Flying - Jason Miller:
adventure.learnthefinerpoints.com
iCloth Avionics:
a.co/4f66Evg
Spectrum Airways Flight Training:
www.spectrumairways.com/
Huge thanks to all the Supporters on Patreon! Productions like this wouldn't be possible without your help!
For those that haven't seen it, please check the Flight Chops Patreon page to find out how you can be a part of it!
/ flightchops
FLIGHT CHOPS DISCLAIMER:
I am a "weekend warrior" private pilot, I fly for fun with no intentions of going commercial. I have had my PPL for over 15 years, but still consider each flight a learning experience - I generally take detailed notes after each flight to remind myself what went well or what I could do to improve.... Having the GoPro cameras to record flights like this is invaluable. I find these self analysis videos very helpful in my constant quest to improve, and am happy to share. Feedback is invited; however, please keep it positive.

[@pbbrown1963]

Love the Van's RVs! I would love to build and own an RV14. They are awesome! Think of your own personal paint job! I paid particular attention to the 14 at OSH18. If you could make vids of your 14 build I would definitely pay attention. You may even put me over the edge and get me to place my empennage order! Thanks, Steve and crew. You guys do a great job. I'll be watching.

[@FlightChops]

Thanks for the encouragement! This sort of feedback is really helping push me toward going for it!

[@vidmikevid]

FlightChops if at all possible go for it. I’d watch every second of it. (And be jealous of it all too) You have great content and I thank you for it. I bought a 182Q and it was one of the best moves I’ve made

[@MalteJanduda]

@@FlightChops I got the empennage kit for my 14 a few weeks ago. Watching your video gives a motivation boost. Thanks!! :)

[@Blackt1g3r]

FlightChops we just started our RV-14 build. I’m sure a lot of people would love to see the build process, but be careful not to let trying to document it slow down your build!

[@GWMRed]

I'm confident you would have the rapt attention of a loyal audience, should you decide to build and fly the plane. OTOH, have you investigated the ramifications of flying an aircraft labeled "experimental"? My life insurance becomes void, if I do so. You experience may vary. ...😃

[@steveo1kinevo]

That RV-14 looks like one fun airplane!

[@TheFinerPoints]

It's cool to see Dick is still so involved.

[@Rhaspun]

He has the best the job in the world. He's doing something he loves.

[@bsinger339]

Steve, you definitely seemed like a kid in a candy store! And for good reason. I would up my current Patreon subscription to watch you build one and follow the adventures. As with most of your videos, the story behind the story you present was of particular interest. The interviews with the founder and the intern added a lot of value for me. The instructor flying with you was awesome. "Keep the nose up until the last dog is gone..." brilliant!

[@calvin2516]

Build one and video it, I'll watch every rivet.

[@FlightChops]

Awesome! :)

[@jirons2709]

Foreshadowing

[@yakMACyak]

Aw, FlightChops. I cannot say enough good things about your vlogging. You helped keep me motivated to get my PPL over the past couple years and now you're moving onto RVs. A flight in an RV-6 after graduate school pushed all the right buttons for me and buying / building one is something I hope to do with my son in the future. It would be really interesting to see you vlog about your experience building one of these planes and eventually have the RV-grin in the bird you build.

[@Poorschedriver]

What a great video. I love to see the passion they have in their planes and how they're like little hot rods of the sky. Truly remarkable aircraft, and I agree, the RV14 just seems like the best one. I hope you get a chance to own one. You guys are the best aviation channel period.

[@jessedn]

I am building an RV-12 and I cannot say enough good things about Van's kits. The quality, fitment and attention to detail is phenomenal. I really enjoy your videos and love your goal to honor your families aviation history. My build has turned into a father-son project with my dad, who is a retired airline and Air Force pilot, and I feel similar to you with my journey in aviation. We are even considering building a second aircraft together, probably the RV-10 when we get the 12 flying, so I can't wait for part 2 of this!

[@garethess5652]

Awesome! I'm in the middle of building my RV7A, and its great to see the comparison between the two models. I can attest to the highs and lows of the build. Just like leaning to fly it has amazing days and some days that are not so great. But what an adventure!!!!

[@ethanhiggins4887]

Building an RV12 right now for the Mckinney Aviation Academy. We have one finished and will get the other one done before the summer. Lots of fun

[@mikepazzree1340]

Gosh your Channel just continues to both improve and take me on unexpected journeys. Thank you very much

[@jeeeeeeees]

Of course I'd like to see you build it, fly it and have fun with it. Aerobatics, sights, and instruments :)

[@rynetreatch9558]

Nicely done Steve! Heck yeah I’ll follow along on the journey of building a 14!

[@bobmeyers7052]

Built and flying my 14A. Now with 230 hours on it. I can fully recommend the airplane. It is a fun build. Brought back memories of transition training with Mike out in Oregon in the 14A. Great video.

[@FlightChops]

Congrats on completing your RV!

[@escaragami]

I remember in the mid-'60s I had a burning desire to build a BD-5 in partnership with a friend, sadly it didn't come to be. Good luck with your endeavor. I really enjoyed the instructor's coolness and smooth vice.

[@Mrcaffinebean]

I always always always wanted to build an RV and my grandfather wanted to build one many years ago. Great episode, this is some of your best GA content yet!

[@ricks2028]

Another great video Steve, kudos to you and your team. I always enjoy your video's and I look forward to seeing you become a RV builder, its great fun. As current an RV9 builder, I can tell you there's very few things in life more satisfying than building your own airplane. One of the cool things with a Vans airplane is you can either do a quick build or a slow build based on your own situation. Come on, join the RV family!

[@SmittySmithsonite]

I'm on board with that, Steve (building your own RV) - I think that would be a great series! For all the work you put into these KZbin videos, and what you do for aviation, you deserve it! As I'm pretty new to the aviation world, I didn't know much about Van's aircraft. Looks like some nice stuff there! Pretty impressive performance for the money. Good to see the founder still involved with the company. That right there speaks volumes about them. GREAT video, Steve! Thanks! I'll be looking for the next ones on these. 👍👍

[@jamesharkness1058]

This is my favorite video you have ever done! What a treat to fly all these different RV's!

[@FlightChops]

Glad you enjoyed it - and heck yes it was a good time - so happy to share it!

[@duaneshaw2236]

Definitely build it. Your videos have an easy going and honest vibe that would be perfect for others who are nervous about taking that first step toward building their own airplane.

[@patcism]

Best video ever. Been waiting to see a good video on RV's and I'm so glad it came from your channel. Would love to see more about it's IFR capabilities!

[@jimmydaamen]

I actually had my first lesson in an RV 12, about 4 years ago now, when I was 10. The high school in that area had built it as a school project. I don't remember much about flying it, except for the fact that it was incredibly exciting! I now take lessons in an Evektor Sportstar, which from my personal experience is extremely forgiving and quite snappy. I've still got 1 and a half years before I'm old enough to solo, but I'm excited nonetheless!

[@milhaus28]

Always loved Vans RV planes. I think this would make a great build and IFR learning platform for you! I am IN on the build and training in an RV! Go For It!

[@Metalwolf765]

So happy to see this! The RV-14 is on my short list for ownership, and the idea of building something with my own two hands bumps it to my #1 slot.

[@gordonfeliciano4315]

Chops! One of your BEST videos yet! Love those RV's! Reminds me of my 77 Grumman Tiger! If I had the time and the money, I'd definitely consider an RV-10A! Nice job!

[@bryantturner97]

Very calm demeanor from the top down with that company. Great video! Thanks for posting..

[@colinwallace3691]

I helped my wife’s cousin’s husband to rivet the main spar of his trike gear RV-8, and I flew in it a few times. Compared to others I’ve been in, it was a sports car of the air. It was a surreal trip to fly in something that started life in a garage, and that I had a small part in building. It’s not something you can really imagine until you discover the world of experimental aircraft and home builds. Love flight chops.👍👍

[@jasoncarter7971]

I’ve been waiting for the part 2 video. So glad your posting this. Thanks!

[@pilotandy]

Great video. I did my -9A transition training with Mike in 2011, brought back lots of memories.

[@feralchimp]

Still working on my tailwheel endorsement, and super impressed by your TW landings in an unfamiliar aircraft. *Love* the 3-view footage of cockpit / stick / wheels on those.

[@stanbearup9200]

This was a great video production, and I am certainly envious of your chance to fly all of those sweet planes in one day. If you build the RV-14, I would love to follow and view your progress.

[@didja691]

This was an outstanding video and it was great to see the side by side comparisons! I am in the process of building an RV-14a but I never had an opportunity to fly in one before I selected it. This video and your input confirms I made the right choice! I have had a blast building it and posting the vlog on KZbin! I highly encourage you to do the same!!! I would definitely follow that series!

[@travissusee1871]

I grew up just south of there in Salem. I had no idea that's where VANs was located. Very cool to see this video. I appreciate all the videos

[@gotpwr]

Awesome! I have been waiting for this video since the_candourist posted his video of your trip to Van’s. I love the RV-14 and got a demo flight with Mike Seager at Oshkosh in 2017. I plan to start building an RV-14 in a couple years, and would love to watch you build and fly one.

[@dogsborodave]

One of my favorite vids you've done to date! I've ridden right seat in the RV7 and RV10 and love them both. Definitely interested in the build if you decide to do that in your series.

[@josephsebesta6790]

Your content& videos are great, you pick great tropics. Keep it up. Your an asset to the flying community.Thanks you.

[@engiflight]

Awesome video! I did a demo flight in N137RV this past year as well. I wish I had know the history when I did that flight myself. Definitely became a believer as well Vans aircraft. Thanks for putting this video up. Really enjoyed it!

[@AaronMiller]

What great episode! I just started phase 1 in my RV8, it took me 8 years to build, it's worth every minute. I helped a friend with his 14A, that kit is a HUGE leap forward in comparison to the 7/8. I did my transition training with Mike a couple of months ago, I can't recommend transition training and Mike enough. I'd like to see you build and fly an RV, I think it'd be especially interesting learning the differences between the USA and Canadian regs.

[@TrackMackovision]

So this is where it all began! Can't wait to see the build.

[@shoutykat]

Not even a pilot but I've been following you for a while and enjoying learning stuff I'd love to follow along as you put together your own RV-14! It looks like a lovely thing

[@davidmarquardt2587]

I would absolutely watch a build! I love watching Jason Ellis build his RV 10

[@philchallinor6429]

Steve, exceptional job and a well earned Scotch on the publish point!!!! Yes, all in on the build. Beautiful aircraft and a Van's is definitely on the short list of planes for me!

[@kylekendall1587]

Another great video Steve! You were flying around my stopping grounds, i rent 172's from Aurora Aviation! Great seeing you showcase a GA legend and pioneer, Vans!.

[@markbrown2450]

That was a great episode. I'm really looking forward to the build episode. Thanks for all the great content.

[@stonehorn4641]

I can't wait to finish mine. Just engine installation and painting left. The 172kII is going to be jealous.

[@toddingbretsen9580]

I’m a Cessna 182A owner... but after watching this video I would certainly entertain building one of these RV someday! I certainly enjoyed the interview with the man himself Van, you certainly captured his passion, in all aspects of his life, thanks for that.

[@jordanworm6923]

I love the idea of seeing a series on the build and then the flying that brings after!

[@braqueguy6543]

Hell yeah, I’d watch a build series! RV14 with a big ole Chops logo painted on the tail! Love the content, sir. Keep up the great work.

[@a10moondog1]

Flight Chops build it! We all will watch. As an RV-7 owner my recommendation is the RV-14. You are a tail dragger pilot; The Van's Tail draggers look so much better than the Tricycle gear variants. Flight planning at 200mph is a blast and you can't chase clouds upside down in the family model. I have watched every one of your productions. Great work.

[@hefeibao]

Talk about living the dream. Being able to get to Van's like you did is a dream!

[@reydogmotor]

Great Video, I especially loved the I tercies with Mr. Van himself but I really enjoyed the flight Instructor he was so cool and laid back.

[@reydogmotor]

Sorry Interview, with Mr Van

[@erinchillmusic8930]

Yes please, I would love to follow a full build vlog of one of the Van's airplanes!

[@zulucharlie5244]

Really outstanding video, great stuff. This has sealed the deal, I really like the company, the founder, their history and their planes.

[@ProfSimonHolland]

love to see you build an RV14...I would definitely watch those films....cool.

[@donhuras9599]

Would love to see a full build! Great video flight chops. thank you

[@sherman8wi]

Thank you for considering doing this. You really are helping the community by taking on this challenge. If you could please make your how to build videos intricate down to the last minute detail, I and many others would be extremely grateful. There's just something about having someone show you how to build, rather than reading a manual, a project that is so much more helpful. I would rewind and watch each and every section of your build as we go through our build. Great painstaking detail would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[@sline09]

I instructed in an RV-12 down in Eugene the first half of this year - I loved that plane!

[@edmorgan960]

Yes,I'd love to see you build and fly it!

[@higherperspective6927]

Really appreciate what you are doing and would enjoy watching an RV build.

[@wilbobaggins1550]

Watching you build the RV14 would be so cool! 100% aboard for that journey!

[@Zalaniar]

I would love to see a series of building videos from you! Building is something I've been looking at for when I eventually want to own an aircraft so that'd be really cool to see what it's like.

[@Mike_Costello]

Will be watching the build mate. This’ll be fun!

[@mathieupaul88]

Yes please!!! It would be amazing. Honestly I didn't know much about Van's before but now.... I'll watch all the videos for sure!

[@TheMartorious]

I would definitely follow a build series on the RV14!

[@gloger]

I am almost finished building my RV-14A. Being an Experimental, I, of course, had to deviate from the plans and powered it with a Superior XP-400 & Whirlwind 74RA Composite Prop , which allowed me to build the engine itself at the Superior Factory in Dallas, TX. Many parts upgrades: stainless steel break lines, stainless steel eyeballs, vernier throttle, EarthX Lithium Battery, B&N alternators & voltage regulators, Full IFR AFS Panel, etc.

[@thejcarne]

This was a great video! I am building an RV-7A and am active on the forums, this video truly will help a lot of people make up their minds on which one they want to build. A question I see a lot between the -7 and -14.

[@FlightChops]

Agreed - yes - it is a tough choice

[@TheRodrigch]

Absolutely! Would love to watch the build! Go for it!

[@WhereNerdyisCool]

I'd love to follow your build....years ago there was a TV show that was building an RV...now I have to dig!

[@av-rick8632]

I will definitely be following along all the way from South africa if you go ahead and build a RV14. Ill be waiting in anticipation!!! Great stuff!!!

[@wconkle]

Wonderful video and the RV14 is such a sweet aircraft. I would love to try flying it.

[@joecarpenter4522]

Steve, awesome man! RV-8 is my dream although I flew in an RV-7A and she was a real beauty :)

[@mogulmniac]

It would be great to watch you go through the full process to build a RV-14. Go for it!

[@vvazz0lol931]

Hell yeah for the build series and continuing adventures.

[@gapster46]

Years ago a group of us flew into Aurora for a pre arranged tour of Van’s factory and I’ve flown into Aurora for a fly-in/air show and several other times for the fun of it. The factory tour was awesome. There was no tower there then.

[@robaust3049]

What a cool calm instructor. Great video and great aircraft.

[@erickstiner1668]

How exciting for you and ALL of us, to see such historic and valuable aircraft flying. Van’s sure did cement the experimental field for todays market.

[@blancolirio]

Great interview with Van.

[@FlightChops]

Thanks Juan. Of the many amazing aviation stories I've been privileged to tell, this one was probably top 5

[@nicompton]

My brother built an RV8 a few years ago, including a kit engine from Superior. I helped out here and there with the build, and in particular spent a week with him building the engine. That was one seriously awesome aeroplane! I'd love to ride along for the build process with your RV!

[@terryrutherford2114]

Van is awesome! Love what they're doing with the youth. Love those planes. Damn, thanks for another great video!

[@tpittockful]

Great Great video. I love the Bahamas too every cruise I go there. You have found those out of the way places that are awesome when you are a couple but im single so the cruise ships offer much more entertainment. If I was not single oh hell yea im there. Thank you for sharing that with us. You guys rock!!!!!!!!!

[@IRAMightyPirate]

I've been sold on the RV-14A for years, working towards building one. I would absolutely love to see a build series on it!

[@lonnieholcomb2078]

I absolutely would follow along, please do it

[@danr597]

Do it! I am (hopefully) about 2-3 months from my 7A (with a 390) being ready to fly. If I were to start again today, I'd opt for the 14 but that wasn't an option when I started. All great planes, great company, and the best thing of all is the community of builders to help out. There is no perfect plane, but the Van's lineup tick a lot of boxes.

[@MyHealthByDesign]

Thanks for this video! I’m finishing my PPL now, and planning on getting Instrument Rating shortly after. SERIOUSLY considering the RV-14A (and a couple others). Your video now has me leaning heavily toward the 14.

[@TheAdamGore]

I REALLY hope you end up getting a RV-14 . That would just be mega cool !

[@DickGibson]

Way kool man! One of your best videos yet!! The start of a new adventure....................

[@txdave2]

I built a tailwheel Sonex in my garage. Building and flying your own airplane is an incredible experience. The RV-14 is my dream airplane. Gof for it!

[@tootallno]

Used to work at Aurora Airport back in 07-08. WOW how it has changed. Tower and all now Nice video

[@bradend7099]

get a 14! I'd love to follow your build. about halfway done my 14A. Been waiting for a vans video for awhile now, Even got the classic RV grin 18:34 thanks chops!

[@ianneub]

I'd love to see the build. I was thinking about building an RV-14A myself. I also got to fly with Mike before when he checked me out in my RV-12. Great CFI.

[@Tom-tk3du]

Great video, Steve! Would have liked to see you review the RV-8...my personal favorite.

[@gsxr1kmatt]

As an RV-10 owner, I LOVE THIS VIDEO. I had planned on an RV-14 but needed 4 seats. Just with the 10 could do basic acro. Would be happy to take you for a spin in it. I'm in Milwaukee and I'm at OSH every year.

[@marsgal42]

I've looked long and hard at various Van's offerings, particularly the RV-9. The 12 and 14 are pretty tasty too. Some day...

[@carlwilliams8354]

Nice video,you want find a better value in aviation than a Van’s Kit. A friend built a quick build RV-6 with a FP prop and an O-320. His was the 53 rd QB kit for a 6. There is a guy near me that’s working on an RV 8 that has a Rotec radial. I like the slider canopy better than the tip up but as they say it’s the builders choice!

[@rhubbarddds]

Hope you get the RV-10! Good luck and always great videos!

[@Tiwow]

Awesome! I have to admit, the RV7 has always the airplane made me dream of realistic ownership as well. Someone in our hangar built one, I've tried it and now I'm more convinced than ever.

[@erickstiner1668]

As for you doing a RV-14 build. YES. This is such an opportunity to showcase G.A. For the youth and us “young at hearts”. It will fit in great with your contribution to aviation history. Your Grandfather would be very proud..

[@Beautifulstrangerbeerfairy]

I don’t know of too many private pilots who don’t dream of ownership, much like yourself, and see the experimental owner built category as the only financially feasible option. I would absolutely love watching a build on your channel. Super great episode man.

[@Myfivestarsuccess]

Love your videos! Great stories, well produced.

[@marcusreading4044]

Would love to follow a full build series of the RV 14. Definitely go for it!