Frequently Asked Questions

Where was the data for this site obtained from?

Most data was obtained by searching for it on the manufacturer's website. However, they don't make all data available in a consistent format. Brochures were helpful, and in some cases articles from reputable aviation news organizations were used.

For the fuel tank sizes, what size was shown if there were multiple options?

We try to display the standard fuel tank size for the aircraft model. This depends on the manufacturer, but is usually the smallest size available for that particular model. Extended tank sizes are not yet shown on the site, but it's something we plan to add in the future.

For the airspeeds, are those Indicated, Calibrated, or True?

Most manufacturers don't indicate which type of airspeed they are providing. Therefore, the airspeeds currently shown on this site may be a mix. We plan to update the site to clearly label which speed it is (if known) in the future.

How did you calculate the full fuel payload?

To calculate the weight, we first need the aircraft's useful load and fuel tank capacity. If we have that available, we use a weight of 6lbs for 100LL or Mogas, or 6.75lbs for Jet A or diesel fuel. Multiply the gallon weight by the fuel tank capacity, and then subtract that number from the aircraft's fuel tank capacity.

For the aircraft's max range, how was that calculated?

The max range was taken straight from the manufacturer's site. There may be discrepancies if they provided that number for an expanded fuel tank size, or factored in a reserve, or did it at Max Takeoff Weight instead of minimum weight etc.

What is efficient cruise speed?

We obtained the most credible data we could for the speed that would yield the plane's maximum range. This will likely be less than an aircraft's max or typical cruising speed. This information was also used to derive the aircraft's statute miles per gallon (mpg), which is helpful in determining which aircraft is most fuel efficient.

I see a problem with your data! How can I correct it?

Please contact us. Please try to provide the sources for your data if possible.

You're missing some data for a particular aircraft?

Manufacturers do not always provide their full specifications up front, so it takes time to hunt down each data point. We're working on expanding the data we have available, to make this the best resource for learning about aircraft! If you happen to have a data point that we're missing please contact us. Please try to provide the sources for your data if possible.

You're missing a plane I'm interested in. How can I get it added?

Please contact us. Please try to provide the make and model, and a link to the manufacturer's website.

I know aircraft X is flyable by a US sport pilot certificate holder. Why does this site not show it?

MOSAIC regulations are taking effect which will change what planes are allowed to be flown by someone exercising sport pilot privileges. The new regulations require a maximum clean stall speed of 59 knots calibrated airspeed. This data is not always available, and in some cases the manufacturer does not provide it.

Why aren't all S-LSA and E-LSA aircraft shown as sport pilot flyable?

The MOSAIC regulations specify a maximum Vs0 (flaps down, gear retracted, landing configuration) stall speed of 61 to be considered a Light Sport Aircraft. This is different from the plane specifications a Sport Pilot may be allowed to fly, and thus a small niche may exist for a plane to be certified as an S-LSA or E-LSA, but not be flyable by a Sport Pilot. Our understanding is that FAA determined based on the data available to them that this compromise would increase safety, while still allowing manufacturers an easier path to certification.

What features are planned for this site in the future?

The goal is to be the best resource for learning about aircraft. More data points, such as high wing vs low wing, float availability, additional safety features, minimum takeoff and landing distances, airplane comparisons, ability to favorite particular planes, aircraft images, integrate with used plane sales sites etc. Is there a particular feature you want? Please contact us and let us know! Want to support our mission to become the best place to find information about aircraft? Support the site!