The Carbon Cub UL Enters Full-Scale Production
- Garth Calitz
- Apr 2
- 4 min read

CubCrafters has kicked off production of its Carbon Cub UL. This aircraft is available as a ready-to-fly Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) or as a DIY project with factory help for Experimental Amateur Built (EAB) aircraft enthusiasts. It brings together high-tech carbon-fiber construction, the latest tech, and impressive performance. Aiming to shake up the world of recreational flying, the latest Carbon Cub offers both newbies and seasoned pilots an unbeatable bush flying adventure.

The Carbon Cub UL is built to be super versatile, tough, and easy to handle. Whether you're flying over remote areas, taking part in STOL competitions, or navigating crowded airfields, this plane gives you a great mix of power, cutting-edge tech, and fuel efficiency. It's perfect for more off-airfield adventures than ever.

The Carbon Cub UL is raising the bar for personal adventure flying. Its lightweight yet strong chromoly steel frame makes it both tough and high-performing. With the new Rotax 916 iS engine, a high-tech turbocharged engine that can use either traditional avgas or newer unleaded fuels, the Carbon Cub UL is built to perform well at any altitude. Thanks to its sleek design, powerful engine, and lightweight build, it offers amazing short field performance, impressive climb rates, and great fuel efficiency and range.

CubCrafters claims the Carbon Cub UL is unbeatable for tackling tough short-field adventures, making it the go-to for pilots looking to explore those hard-to-reach spots. With optional tundra tires, floats, or skis, this plane can land just about anywhere—whether it’s a rough airstrip, snow, or even water. It’s the ultimate aircraft for anyone craving adventure and exploration.

CubCrafters has put a lot into the latest prepreg composite, titanium, and other cool materials for the Carbon Cub UL. This has brought the basic empty weight down to just 807 lbs, meaning the plane can carry a lot and offers plenty of options and configurations.

In the current FAA LSA category, this aircraft can hold two adults and a full tank of fuel. In the EAB category, it can carry more than its own empty weight. The UL is designed to take advantage of the USA FAA's new MOSAIC regulations and can be easily upgraded for better performance expected from the new LSA rules once they're in place, which is expected to be in Mid-2025.

The Carbon Cub UL is super easy to fly, making it perfect for newbies and seasoned pilots alike. With its single lever for throttle and propeller, straightforward flight controls, and simple avionics, it helps pilots feel confident fast, whether they're just getting into flying or adding a flexible new plane to their collection.


“The Carbon Cub UL is the culmination of years of research, engineering, and pilot feedback,” said Patrick Horgan, President and CEO of CubCrafters. “We are thrilled to introduce this incredible aircraft to the aviation community, as it combines the best elements of traditional tailwheel flying with modern materials and technology. Our goal was to create yet another best-of-class backcountry aircraft that is extremely fun to fly and incorporates the latest in advanced technologies, and we believe we’ve achieved that with the Carbon Cub UL.”

CubCrafters prides itself on top-notch craftsmanship and precision, making sure every Carbon Cub UL is super safe and performs like a champ. Their cutting-edge facility in Yakima, Washington, is loaded with the latest tech to make the assembly process smooth while keeping a close eye on quality.

The first Carbon Cub ULs are set to roll out to customers by the second quarter of 2025, and customers can already put down a deposit for one by 2026. CubCrafters' authorized dealers are there to give clients personalized service and support. Buyers can pick from a bunch of customization options like fabric and paint designs, choose between one or two seats inside, and select avionics packages that fit their flying style.

The Carbon Cub UL is quickly turning into a top pick for backcountry aviation fans and recreational pilots worldwide. With the aircraft now in full production, CubCrafters is committed to providing amazing planes to pilots everywhere.


“The Carbon Cub UL is an aircraft that has truly exceeded all of our expectations,” adds Brad Damm, CubCrafters’ Vice President. “Our team engineers and designers amazingly came in almost 50lbs. below our target weight, while at the same time, the collaboration with Rotax on developing the turbocharged 916 iS for backcountry applications has been game-changing for the entire industry. When a Carbon Cub UL arrives at your home airport, take a close look, talk to the owner, and get a ride if you can. You won’t be disappointed!”

CubCrafters was established in 1980 thanks to Jim Richmond. Over the decades, this company has kept classic grassroots aviation fresh and modern. The Carbon Cub series has changed what people expect from bush flying with its cool design, modern materials, powerful engines, and stunning performance. Their top model, the XCub, takes backcountry flying to a whole new level with better speed, range, and payload than other planes out there. Their latest UL class of aircraft brings cutting-edge engine and airframe tech to the backcountry, making it more eco-friendly without losing any oomph. The secret sauce to their success? Creating a unique and adventurous experience in personal aviation!

Kommentare