Vans RV-12IS vs Flight Design CTLS
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Vans RV-12IS
- For sale now
- 11
- Median asking
- $132,500
- Range
- $79,250–$194,499
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 3
- Source marketplaces
- 4
- Model years available
- 2019–2025
Flight Design CTLS
- For sale now
- 15
- Median asking
- $103,479
- Range
- $56,000–$153,387
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 8
- Source marketplaces
- 6
- Model years available
- 2006–2023
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) | Vans RV-12IS | Flight Design CTLS |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 12 |
| Serious | — | 2 |
| Fatal | — | 1 |
| Fatalities | — | 1 |
| % Fatal | — | 8% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Vans RV-12IS | Flight Design Ctls |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $79,250 – $194,499 | $56,000 – $153,387 |
| Category | Experimental | Light Sport |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | — |
| Cruise Speed | 117 kts (217 km/h) | 115 kts (213 km/h) |
| Range | 505 nm (935 km) | 721 nm (1,335 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,320 lbs (599 kg) | 1,320 lbs (599 kg) |
| Engines | 2 x Piston | — |
Which Should You Buy: Vans RV-12IS or Flight Design CTLS?
Pick the RV-12IS if…
- Faster cruise — 117 kts vs 115 kts.
- More inventory — 11 listings vs 2.
Pick the CTLS if…
- Budget matters — from $56,000 vs $79,250, you save ~$23,250.
- Longer range — 721 nm vs 505 nm.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Vans RV-12IS or Flight Design Ctls?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The RV-12IS cruises at 117 kts with 505 nm range.
The Ctls cruises at 115 kts with 721 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Vans RV-12IS: from $122,000.
Flight Design Ctls: from $142,967.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Vans RV-12IS and Flight Design CTLS?
Cruise: 117 vs 115 kts.
Range: 505 vs 721 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?
RV-12IS: 2 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