The Aircraft

The Pitts S2S first flew in December 1977 and was certified in June 1981 and is a unique single-seat version of the classic Pitts Special aerobatic biplane.

Improving on the 200hp of the S2A, made famous amongst others by the Rothmans team, the S2S is powered by a 260hp fuel injected Lycoming engine. In order to achieve the same weight distribution it is also some 14 inches shorter than the two seater. The S2S has symmetrical wings and four symmetrical ailerons, with spades on the lower set to help reduce stick force in roll well below that in pitch. The six cylinder engine has more of a growl than it's predecessors, adding to it's appeal and enables the S2S to draw longer vertical lines that it's smaller brothers and sisters.

The larger size makes it much more visible at airshows which is why teams have used the lower performance S2A. It has a huge smoke system as there is no weight issue with this single seater version.

These are amazing aircraft and the specification speaks for itself: