Aircraft overview

The Vans RV-10 is a four seat, low wing, kit built aircraft from Van's Aircraft of Oregon. It first flew in 2003 and kits have been supplied to amateur builders since the mid 2000s. Unlike the two seat RV models, the RV-10 was designed from the outset as a cross country touring aircraft with rear seats, baggage capacity and a larger six cylinder engine. It is registered in the Experimental Amateur Built category in the United States and equivalent categories in many other countries, so individual aircraft can vary significantly in equipment, finish and operating history.

Performance & specifications

Most RV-10s are powered by a Lycoming IO-540 family engine rated at 260 hp, driving either a fixed pitch or, more commonly, a constant speed propeller. Typical cruise speeds are about 165 to 175 knots, depending on engine, propeller, weight and power setting. Standard fuel capacity is 60 US gallons. Practical range is commonly around 800 nautical miles, with actual endurance depending on reserves and fuel flow. Maximum gross weight is 2,700 lb, and many completed aircraft offer a useful load in the area of 1,000 to 1,100 lb. Published service ceiling is commonly cited at about 20,000 feet.

Cabin & avionics

The RV-10 cabin has two front seats, two rear seats and a baggage area, with gull wing style cabin doors. Compared with smaller RV models, it offers easier family or business travel use, although it remains a kit aircraft rather than a type certificated production airplane. Avionics are builder selected. Many examples have modern glass panels such as Garmin G3X Touch, Dynon SkyView or Advanced Flight Systems displays, often paired with Garmin GTN or GNS navigators, autopilots, ADS-B equipment and engine monitoring. Older or simpler aircraft may have mixed analog and digital panels.

Buying & value

Prospective buyers should evaluate build quality, documentation, weight and balance records, engine and propeller history, avionics installation, paint quality, door fit and any service bulletins or modifications. Common upgrades include electronic ignition, upgraded interiors, modern IFR panels, three blade propellers and air conditioning on some aircraft. The RV-10 typically sits above most two seat experimentals in used market value because it combines RV handling with true four place utility. Current PlaneFox listing data shows an average asking price of about EUR 332,000, with observed listings from EUR 181,000 to EUR 410,000.