Just Aircraft debuts XL Super Stol

Bigger, stronger, faster: That describes Just Aircraft‘s XL SuperStol, which is making its debut in Paradise City at this week’s SUN ‘n FUN.

XL stands for eXtra Large. The high wings with the bulbous tires is reminiscent of Just Aircraft’s popular Super Stol, but the XL is 24 inches longer in the fuselage and 6 inches longer in the cowling.“The larger cowling helps to accommodate a larger engine if our customers want a larger engine,” said Harrison Smith, demo pilot for Just Aircraft.

The airplane comes in kit form from the factory in Walhalla, South Carolina. For the pilot who would like to get the airplane in the air sooner rather than later, there is a Builder’s Assist program at the factory.

Aircraft owners that take advantage of the Builder’s Assist program also can get transition training in their new airplanes.

One of the new plane’s key features, according to Smith, is the locking tailwheel.

“That’s really what makes this airplane work,” he said. “It helps the pilot keep it straight in takeoff.”

In addition to the backcountry aircraft, Just Aircraft’s designer Troy Woodland also designed the Light-Sport Escapade and Highlander, so displaying in Paradise City is like being home, he noted.

The aircraft are known for durability and Short Field Take Off and Landing — or STOL — characteristics.

The back of Smith’s shirt says it all: “Fly it like you STOL it.”