RUTAN “LONG-EZ”€

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Rutan Long-EZ is an enlarged and heavier evolution of the VariEze, designed around a 108-115 hp Lycoming engine, featuring increased wingspan and wing area.
  • It offers improved takeoff and landing performance compared to its predecessor, with a takeoff run of 775 feet and a landing roll of 780 feet.
  • The aircraft boasts impressive performance, including a top speed of 220 mph, a cruise speed of 185 mph, and a range of 1,298 miles.
  • Its endurance and speed capabilities were highlighted by Dick Rutan's record flight, logging 52.2 hours and averaging 183 mph.
See a mistake? Contact us.
STANDARD DATA: Gross wt. 1,325. Empty wt. 700. Fuel capacity 52. Wingspan 26’3″. Length 100″. Engine 108- to 115-hp Lycoming.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 220. Cruise mph 185. Stall mph 66. Climb rate 1,150. Ceiling 26,900. Range 1,298. Takeoff run 775. Landing roll 780.

Rutan’s Long-EZ is a larger and heavier version of the VariEze built around the 115-hp Lycoming engine. It has over four feet more wingspan and nearly half again the wing area of the VariEze. It takes off in 100 feet less distance and lands in only slightly more than half the distance of the original VariEze. While identical in length-100 inches-the long version is two inches wider. During one record flight, Dick Rutan logged 52.2 hours on a two-week round-trip to Florida from Mojave, averaging a 183-mph airspeed.

Plane & Pilot

Plane + Pilot is general aviation’s only adventure-based magazine. From where to go, to how to get there, and everything in between, your next great adventure awaits.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get the latest Plane & Pilot Magazine stories delivered directly to your inbox

SUBSCRIBE