PIPER J-5 “CUB CRUISER”€/PA-12 “SUPER CRUISER”€

1946’€“48

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Piper J-5 Cruiser, a derivative of the J-3 Cub, offered increased seating (three passengers) and a more powerful engine (75-100 hp) compared to its predecessor.
  • Several variations existed, including the PA-11 (90 hp engine) and the PA-12 Super Cruiser (108 hp engine), all carrying three passengers.
  • The PA-14 Family Cruiser, a later model, accommodated four passengers and included wing flaps.
  • The PA-12 Super Cruiser remains a prevalent aircraft in the United States.
See a mistake? Contact us.
STANDARD DATA: (Super Cruiser) Seats 3. Gross wt. 1,390. Empty wt. 490. Fuel capacity 30. Engine 108-hp Lycoming.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 115. Cruise mph 105. Stall mph 49. Initial climb rate 600. Range 600. Ceiling 12,600. Takeoff distance (50′) 720. Landing distance (50′) 470.

STANDARD DATA: (J-5) Seats 3. Gross wt. 1,450. Empty wt. 830. Fuel capacity 25. Engine 75-hp Continental.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 100. Cruise mph 85. Landing mph 39. Initial climb rate 450. Range 450. Ceiling 10,000.

The Piper J-5 Cruiser, one of the many J-3 derivatives, entered production in 1946. It differed from the earlier Cub by having increased seating with a single forward seat and a side-by-side seat aft. Also featured was increased engine size from the J-3’s 65-hp engine to either a 75-hp or 100-hp Lycoming engine. The PA-11 was similar to the J-5 but was powered by a 90-hp engine. The PA-12 Super Cruiser was powered by a 108-hp Lycoming four-cylinder engine and was also designed to carry three persons. A later version of the Cruiser line was the PA-14 Family Cruiser, which was designed to carry four persons and sported flaps on its wings. The PA-12 Super Cruiser, typical of the J-3 Cub derivatives, is still extremely common throughout the United States.

Plane & Pilot

Plane & Pilot Magazine is a trusted source for general aviation pilots, delivering aircraft reviews, flight training tips, product recommendations, and industry news. Whether you're a student pilot or seasoned aircraft owner, our expert content is designed to inform, inspire, and support your aviation journey. With over 50 years of history, we bring a personal, pilot-first approach to everything we publish.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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

SUBSCRIBE