Aircraft overview

The Piper PA-18 Super Cub is a two-seat, high-wing, fabric-covered tailwheel aircraft built by Piper Aircraft. It first flew in 1949 and remained in Piper production until 1983, with later examples and derivatives supported by a broad aftermarket and specialist rebuild community. Developed from the Cub family but substantially stronger and more capable than earlier J-3 and PA-11 models, the Piper PA-18 Super Cub became a benchmark utility aircraft for training, agriculture, observation, glider towing, backcountry flying, and float or ski operations. Its value lies in simple systems, low-speed control, short-field capability, and a large installed fleet.

Performance & specifications

Performance varies significantly by engine, propeller, weight, tires, and modifications. Common Piper PA-18 Super Cub versions use Lycoming four-cylinder engines ranging from 95 hp to 150 hp, with the 150 hp PA-18-150 among the most sought-after configurations. Typical cruise speed is about 85 to 100 knots, with range commonly around 350 to 450 nautical miles depending on fuel capacity and power setting. Useful load is often in the 500 to 800 lb range, subject to equipment and approved gross weight. Service ceiling for many variants is published around 19,000 feet. The airframe is valued less for cruise speed than for low stall speed, short takeoff and landing performance, and adaptability to rough strips.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin seats two occupants in tandem, with dual controls common but not universal on every used aircraft. Access is through the right-side door and window arrangement, and the cockpit is narrow, practical, and intentionally simple. Baggage capacity is limited compared with larger touring aircraft, although extended baggage compartments are common upgrades. Avionics are usually basic VFR equipment rather than integrated suites such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective. Buyers will more often see analog flight instruments, a modern comm radio, transponder with ADS-B Out, intercom, engine monitor, and portable or panel-mounted Garmin GPS units.

Buying & value

Condition matters more than model year. Key inspection areas include fabric age and quality, corrosion in the steel tube fuselage, wing spars, landing gear attach points, logbook continuity, damage history, engine time, and the legality of any modifications. Common variants include PA-18-95, PA-18-105, PA-18-125, PA-18-135, and PA-18-150. Popular upgrades include larger tires, vortex generators, extended baggage, seaplane fittings, improved brakes, alternator conversions, and higher-output engines. In the used market, the Piper PA-18 Super Cub sits above basic legacy trainers and below many newer certified or experimental backcountry aircraft. PlaneFox listing data shows an average asking price around EUR 98,000, with current examples ranging from about EUR 42,000 to EUR 211,000 depending on configuration, restoration quality, and equipment.