Pitts Aircraft
10 used Pitts aircraft listings · $63,936–$113,542 · last refreshed 1 hour ago
About Pitts Aircraft Company
The Pitts Special, designed by Curtis Pitts in 1944, is the most iconic aerobatic biplane in aviation history and dominated competition aerobatics for over three decades. The single-seat S-1 series and two-seat S-2 series are built from welded steel tube fuselages with wooden wing spars and fabric covering. Aviat Aircraft in Afton, Wyoming, currently holds the type certificate and produces factory Pitts Specials.
Factory S-2B (260 hp Lycoming AEIO-540) models typically sell for $120,000-200,000, while homebuilt S-1S examples range from $40,000 to $100,000. The Pitts' compact dimensions, light wing loading, and symmetrical airfoil make it superbly responsive, though its short-coupled design and narrow gear demand respect during ground handling. Buyers should inspect the wooden wing spars for moisture damage and verify fabric condition.
Pitts Aircraft for Sale
Price $63,936–$113,542
Pitts Aircraft Price & Cost
How much does a Pitts aircraft cost? Current pricing for used Pitts aircraft (also known as Pitts choppers or Pitts helis) is broken down per model in the table below — covering acquisition price, hourly operating cost and overhaul cost.
The cost of a Pitts aircraft depends on model, year, hours flown, avionics and condition. See operating costs and pre-buy checklist in the About section, or open a specific model page for a detailed price guide.
Pitts Models
Single Engine Piston
Pitts Models — Specifications
Model specFrequently Asked Questions — Pitts
Is the Pitts Special a good aerobatic aircraft?
The Pitts Special is the most iconic aerobatic biplane ever built, dominating world competition from the 1960s through the 1980s. Designed by Curtis Pitts in 1944, it remains highly competitive in Intermediate and Advanced categories. The aircraft does exactly what you tell it to — immediately — with honest, predictable handling. The S-2B (two-seat, 260 hp) is the most popular model for aerobatic training, while the single-seat S-1 variants are lighter competition machines. On AeroGurus, Pitts listings range from 9,000 to 08,000.
What should I check when buying a used Pitts?
Key inspection areas: (1) Fabric condition — if the aircraft was not hangared, budget for a full recover (5,000-5,000). (2) Engine and prop — aerobatic engines see harder duty cycles; verify inverted oil system integrity and prop for cracks. (3) Steel tube fuselage — check for corrosion at all weld joints and inside the lower longerons where moisture collects. (4) Weight and balance — with both seats occupied, some S-2 models have marginal W&B for aerobatics. (5) Logbooks — verify aerobatic history; high-G maneuvers accumulate fatigue faster than normal flying.
Pitts Inventory by Country
| United States | 8 |
| United Kingdom | 3 |
| Canada | 1 |
| Switzerland | 1 |
| Belgium | 1 |
| Finland | 1 |
Recently Sold Pitts
| 1977 Special S2A | $79,995 |
| 1971 S-1C | $34,900 |