The Van's RV-12 is Van's light-sport design — a modern, economical two-seater powered by a Rotax engine, popular with sport pilots and as an affordable, efficient personal airplane.
Key takeaways
- Light-sport economy: Rotax power and low operating cost.
- Modern and simple: easy to fly and maintain.
- Confirm LSA eligibility for your intended use.
About the Van's RV-12
The RV-12 is a light-sport two-seater with a Rotax 912 engine, cruising around 115–120 knots on very little fuel. It's available as a kit or, in some forms, as a special light-sport aircraft, appealing to sport pilots and budget-minded owners.
| Specification | Van's RV-12 |
|---|---|
| Type | Light-sport / experimental (2-seat) |
| Engine | Rotax 912 (~100 hp) |
| Cruise | ~115–120 knots |
Typical used price (2026): ~$70,000–$130,000. Condition, avionics, and engine time drive value within that range.
Is the Van's RV-12 Right for You?
The Van's RV-12 is a light-sport aircraft, suiting sport pilots and budget-minded owners who want simple, economical flying within light-sport rules. It's affordable to buy and operate; confirm the specific aircraft's light-sport eligibility and how you intend to fly it.
Ownership & Operating Costs
- Fuel: very economical.
- Insurance: modest for a light aircraft.
- Maintenance: simple; some LSAs allow owner maintenance.
- Engine reserve: budget per hour toward overhaul/replacement.
For a full framework across models, see our aircraft ownership cost guide.
What to Check When Buying
Focus on engine time, airframe condition, and complete records, and confirm the aircraft's light-sport eligibility for how you intend to fly it. A type-familiar inspection is worthwhile even on a simple airplane.
Financing a Van's RV-12
A Van's RV-12 finances on piston terms, though its modest price can approach lenders' minimum loan amounts, where a specialty lender, a secured personal loan, or cash may be the route. Jaken Aviation is a brokerage, not a lender — we shop your loan across a national network of aviation lenders.
Prices, specifications, and financing figures are illustrative for the 2026 market and are not offers of credit. Jaken Aviation is a licensed aircraft financing brokerage — a division of Jaken Finance Group — and does not make loan decisions. All financing is subject to lender approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Van's RV-12 a light-sport aircraft?
It's in the light-sport category, subject to LSA rules for who can fly it and how. Confirm the specific aircraft's eligibility for your intended use.
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