Steen Aero Skybolt vs Pitts S-1
The Steen Skybolt and Pitts S-1 are aerobatic biplanes of different focus — the Skybolt a rugged two-seat sport-aerobatic biplane; the Pitts S-1 the dedicated single-seat competition aerobat.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
No active listings right now.
- 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) | Steen Aero Skybolt | Pitts S-1 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 35 |
| Serious | — | 3 |
| Fatal | — | 7 |
| Fatalities | — | 7 |
| % Fatal | — | 20% |
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Steen Aero Skybolt | Pitts S-1 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $38,500 – $92,311 | $49,946 – $112,113 |
| Category | Experimental | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 1 |
| Cruise Speed | 110 kts (204 km/h) | 120 kts (222 km/h) |
| Range | 390 nm (722 km) | 273 nm (506 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,650 lbs (748 kg) | 1,150 lbs (522 kg) |
| Engines | — | 1 x Reciprocating |
Which Should You Buy: Steen Aero Skybolt or Pitts S-1?
Bottom line: Choose the Pitts S-1 for the sharpest single-seat competition aerobatics. Choose the Steen Skybolt for two seats (shared/dual aerobatic flying), ruggedness and classic character — a sport-aerobatic biplane rather than a pure competition mount.
Pick the Skybolt if…
- Budget matters — from $38,500 vs $49,946, you save ~$11,446.
- Longer range — 390 nm vs 273 nm.
Pick the S-1 if…
- Faster cruise — 120 kts vs 110 kts.
- More inventory — 5 listings vs 4.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.