Van’s Aircraft Commences Delivery of First RV-15 Backcountry Kit Planes
Van’s Aircraft celebrated a significant milestone in its recovery from bankruptcy. On December 23, 2025, the company delivered the first two RV-15 wing kits to customers, marking the commencement of production for its first-ever high-wing backcountry design.
The initial customer, Kevin Eldredge – a successful Reno air racer who was first in line at EAA AirVenture 2025 to place his order – received a factory tour before loading his kit onto a flatbed trailer bound for Spokane, Washington. The second kit found its way to builder Spanky Melton. In a brief ceremony, Van’s employees signed the first crate before dispatching the kits.
The RV-15 represents a significant departure for Van’s. The design features prepunched aluminum components assembled with blind rivets, which dramatically reduces build time. The wing kits, priced at an introductory $19,650, feature:
- Pre-built fuel tanks
- Pre-dimpled skins
This makes them easier to construct than any previous Van’s design. The aircraft is designed to cruise at 140 knots while maintaining docile handling for short, challenging backcountry airstrips.
Deliveries are set to accelerate in January 2026. However, tail kit sales have been pushed to late January, with deliveries expected by late March. The RV-15’s development has been a key part of Van’s broader recovery strategy since the company emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2024. In 2025, the manufacturer delivered approximately 1,200 kits worldwide and has dramatically reduced lead times for its popular models.
Source: AVweb