Aircraft overview

The Comco Ikarus C42 is a German two seat, high wing ultralight and light sport aircraft produced by Comco Ikarus. The type first appeared in the mid 1990s and entered series production in 1996, becoming widely used in European microlight training, private touring and club operations. Its importance in the used market comes from a practical combination of simple handling, good visibility, modest operating costs and broad support across many European fleets. The C42 should be assessed as its own model family, distinct from earlier Ikarus designs and from other light sport aircraft with similar Rotax power.

Performance & specifications

Most Comco Ikarus C42 examples are powered by a Rotax 912 series engine, commonly the 80 hp 912 UL or the 100 hp 912 ULS, with some later aircraft using modernized Rotax installations. Typical cruise performance is around 90 to 105 knots, depending on engine, propeller, weight and national certification configuration. Published range figures vary by tank fit and power setting, but many aircraft are used for regional VFR touring rather than long distance IFR travel. Maximum takeoff weight depends on variant and approval basis, often seen around 450 kg, 472.5 kg with ballistic parachute allowance, or higher under later light sport and microlight categories. Useful load is therefore highly airframe specific. A service ceiling around 10,000 feet is commonly quoted for the type.

Cabin & avionics

The C42 has side by side seating, dual controls and a large glazed cabin area, giving good outward visibility for training and local flying. Entry is through upward opening doors, and the high wing provides shade and easy ground handling access. Cabin width and baggage capacity are modest, as expected in the ultralight category, so payload planning matters. Avionics are typically VFR focused: analogue flight and engine instruments, radio and transponder, often supplemented by compact glass panels from Dynon, MGL, Kanardia or Garmin portable and panel equipment. Integrated suites such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective are not typical factory fits for this aircraft.

Buying & value

Used Comco Ikarus C42 buyers should verify the exact variant, engine model, operating category, maximum takeoff weight approval, parachute status if installed, and compliance with Rotax service bulletins. Airframe fabric condition, wing fittings, landing gear, propeller history and training use deserve close inspection. Common market distinctions include early C42 aircraft, C42 B and C42 C examples, plus aircraft upgraded with glass avionics, ballistic recovery systems, cabin refinements or newer propellers. On PlaneFox, current asking prices average about EUR 67,000, with observed listings from about EUR 24,000 to EUR 134,000, reflecting age, hours, equipment, approval category and overall condition.