Pitts S-2A vs Pitts S-1
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Pitts S-2A
- For sale now
- 5
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 1
- Source marketplaces
- 5
- Model years available
- 1973–1980
Pitts S-1
- For sale now
- 6
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 5
- Source marketplaces
- 4
- Model years available
- 1972–1987
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Pitts S-2A | Pitts S-1 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 12 | 35 |
| Serious | 2 | 3 |
| Fatal | 3 | 7 |
| Fatalities | 4 | 7 |
| % Fatal | 25% | 20% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Pitts S-2A | Pitts S-1 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $89,525 – $102,920 | $49,946 – $112,113 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 1 |
| Cruise Speed | 137 kts (254 km/h) | 120 kts (222 km/h) |
| Range | 298 nm (552 km) | 273 nm (506 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,670 lbs (758 kg) | 1,150 lbs (522 kg) |
| Engines | 1 x Reciprocating | 1 x Reciprocating |
Which Should You Buy: Pitts S-2A or Pitts S-1?
Pick the S-2A if…
- More seats — 2 vs 1.
- Faster cruise — 137 kts vs 120 kts.
- Longer range — 298 nm vs 273 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1972 vs 1945.
- More inventory — 6 listings vs 5.
Pick the S-1 if…
- Budget matters — from $49,946 vs $89,525, you save ~$39,579.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Pitts S-2A or Pitts S-1?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The S-2A cruises at 137 kts with 298 nm range.
The S-1 cruises at 120 kts with 273 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Pitts S-2A: from $103,850.
Pitts S-1: from $114,470.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Pitts S-2A and Pitts S-1?
Seats: 2 vs 1.
Cruise: 137 vs 120 kts.
Range: 298 vs 273 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
S-2A: 2 seats.
S-1: 1 seats.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data