Super Cub Gallery

The J-3 Cub is a classic. The PA-18 Super Cub is downright iconic.

Piper PA-18
The Piper PA-18 Super Cub has been around for almost 70 years, and while it's the current darling of a new set of backcountry flyers, it's been a staple of bush flying pretty much since the get got. Photo by Bill Brine - CC by 2.0: Flickr
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Piper PA-18 Super Cub has been a versatile and enduring bush plane for nearly 70 years, serving as a staple for backcountry flyers.
  • Renowned for its exceptional short-field capabilities, it can operate from diverse and challenging terrains—including rough fields, gravel, water, and snow—especially when equipped with specialized large tires, floats, or skis.
  • Evolving from earlier designs with increased power and ruggedness, the Super Cub's utilitarian design and operational adaptability continue to inspire modern aircraft.
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Super Cub taking off.

The big tires aren’t at all necessary on this billiard table of a grass strip. But then again, who knows what remote or rugged landing site this bird is heading off to. And if you’re wondering, how can you tell if it’s taking of or just flaring too high? With just a smidgeon of flaps, we’re guessing this Super Cub is headed out and not getting home.

Photo by D. Miller – CC by 2.0/Flickr

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