Building the RV-15: A Firsthand Look at Van’s New Backcountry Aircraft with John Van Bladeren
Van’s Aircraft is best known for its fast, responsive low-wing airplanes, but the RV-15 represents something very different. Designed as Van’s first high-wing aircraft, the RV-15 brings the company’s familiar Total Performance philosophy into the backcountry and short-field flying world.
On Thursday, October 15, CAA welcomes John Van Bladeren for an inside look at his RV-15 build project. John is building RV-15 kit #55 and will share his progress, construction experience, decisions made along the way, and lessons learned while working on one of Van’s newest aircraft designs.
The presentation will also provide a closer look at what makes the RV-15 unique, including its high-wing configuration, large cabin, powerful high-lift flaps, large tires, short-field capability, and design emphasis on utility and backcountry operations.
Whether you are an RV builder, experimental aircraft enthusiast, backcountry pilot, or simply curious about what it takes to build an airplane in your own shop, this presentation will offer a fascinating firsthand look at the RV-15 from the builder’s perspective.