Van’s RV-15 Goes Into Production

Garth Calitz
Jul 30
2 min read

Van's Aircraft, with over 50 years of expertise in designing high-performance low-wing aircraft, has commenced production of its inaugural high-wing design. The company has started manufacturing wing kits, which are scheduled to be shipped and delivered to builders within this year.

On the opening morning of EAA AirVenture 2025, Van’s commenced taking orders for the wing-kit segment of the RV-15, known for its smooth handling. The wing kits, composed of aluminium skins and structural components that are pre-punched to final size, are assembled using user-friendly, aerospace-quality blind rivets. Deliveries of these kits are scheduled to begin before the end of the year. This construction technique significantly reduces build time, making the RV-15 the most easily constructed Van’s RV model to date.

“The RV-15 is a game changer for the backcountry flying community and Van’s Aircraft,” said Mikael Via, Van’s Aircraft CEO. “Our design engineers have worked tirelessly to create an aeroplane that takes Van’s idea of ‘Total Performance’ into the utility category. The RV-15 has the ideal mix of very low stall speeds and docile handling that backcountry pilots love with unexpectedly high cruise speeds. The RV-15 is capable of cruising at 140 knots while also feeling comfortable on short, challenging remote airstrips.”

The wing kit, which is so easy to assemble that there will be little need for so-called quick-build components, is being offered at an introductory price of $19,650. Timelines have been set as follows:

Tail kits are scheduled to be available for purchase in December 2025, with deliveries commencing in March 2026.
Orders for the fuselage will commence in August 2026, with deliveries scheduled for October 2026.
Firewall-forward kits are scheduled to be available for purchase in August 2026, with deliveries expected by the end of the year.
Finish kits will go on sale in November 2026, with deliveries by the end of 2026

Prices for the remaining kits are estimated at $9,000 for the tail kit, $20,000 for the fuselage kit, $13,000 for the firewall-forward kit, and $23,000 for the finish kit.

The RV-15, distinct from other models in the Van’s RV lineup, incorporates innovative technologies and design concepts tailored for the backcountry market. Its patented articulated landing gear is designed to withstand the rigours of rough terrains, while also providing the taildragger model with exceptionally smooth handling characteristics. The aircraft's flap design introduces innovations, featuring integrated vortex generators that remain concealed during cruise to minimise drag. This design achieves a combination of high lift and high-drag configurations, enabling short and steep approaches to demanding airstrips.

Van's plans to commence production of the next kit segment, encompassing the horizontal and vertical tails, in late 2025, with deliveries scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026. The completion of the fuselage design and firewall-forward configuration is slated for early 2026, with kit deliveries expected later that year, a full year ahead of the initial availability projections for this groundbreaking design.