Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1997 Kitfox IV-1200

Kitfoxes are available with a variety of engines, and this example sports a four-cylinder Jabiru. [image: screenshot from AircraftForSale listing]
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Key Takeaways:

  • The article highlights a 1997 Kitfox Model 4-1200, a robust two-place experimental taildragger, available for $42,000, known for its exceptional short-field capability ideal for off-airport adventures.
  • This specific Kitfox, with 7,363 airframe hours, is well-maintained (8/10 rating, no damage history) and powered by a Jabiru engine, offering a 95 mph cruise at 3 gph and strong climb rates.
  • A significant feature of the Kitfox is its foldable wings, which allows for compact storage in small hangar spaces or even a standard car garage, increasing its practicality and reducing storage costs.
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Today’s bargain unlocks off-airport and backcountry adventures for less than the price of many Cessna 150s. One of the most popular experimental aircraft available, the Kitfox is a robust, 2-place, fabric-covered taildragger with exceptional short-field capability, and this 1997 Model 4-1200 is available for $42,000 on AircraftForSale.

First flown in 1991, the Model 4 improved on the preceding three Kitfoxes by utilizing a laminar-flow airfoil and improved flaperons. The Model 4-1200 was the final version of the Model 4 and added a strengthened airframe that increased the gross weight significantly to 1,200 pounds. The -1200 also incorporated a larger rudder and vertical stabilizer for improved control authority.

With 7,363 hours on the airframe, this particular Kitfox has seen significant use, but it appears to have been very well cared for. With no reported damage history and an airframe and fabric rated at 8/10, it appears to be a well-sorted and well cared for example with plenty of life left. 

Kitfoxes are available with a variety of engines, and this example sports a four-cylinder Jabiru. One Kitfox owner with the same setup reports a 95 mph cruise speed while burning only 3 gallons per hour. The same owner reports seeing healthy climb rates of 1,200 feet per minute. 

Unlike many aircraft types, the Kitfox has foldable wings. This enables the airplane to be tucked into a small corner of a standard aircraft hangar, presenting the option of subletting a section of another renter’s hangar for relatively little rent. Alternatively, the excellent short-field performance opens up the possibility of landing in a large backyard and using a standard car garage as a hangar.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.
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