Piper PA-18 Super Cub

10 Jun 2026 · © Big Mike Photography

Classic Piper PA-18 Super Cub in bright yellow at a fly-in gathering—an iconic taildragger prized by bush pilots for its amazing STOL capability.

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Aircraft

PA-18 Super Cub PA18

Classic yellow Piper livery with black lightning bolt stripe

N4888Z

Registration

Manufacturer

Piper

Gear

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max back triple camera 2.22mm f/2.2

Achievements

Vintage Voyager

Badge earned

Photo grade

Silver

Score: 82.0

Vivid yellow Cub pops, but tents and cluttered background detract from the aircraft's impact.

Location

Tower

William T. Piper Memorial Airport · LHV/KLHV

41.1356, -77.4223

Open map

William T. Piper Memorial Airport LHV

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

The Piper PA-18 Super Cub is a legendary bush and tailwheel trainer, beloved for its STOL performance, rugged reliability, and critical role in both civilian and military aviation (notably the L-21 variant).

Fleet Rarity

Once extremely common, now relatively rare as a new build but still numerous as restored classics or kit replicas.

Record Flights

Common in Alaskan bush flying, screening, and STOL competitions; not known for specific world record flights but widely honored for its short takeoff and landing prowess.

Safety & Events

Frequently used in backcountry and bush operations; many have survived emergency landings due to extreme ruggedness; also famously used for banner towing and glider towing.

Future Outlook

This type is favored for restoration and will likely continue flying with owners, backcountry pilots, and preservationists.

Specifications

Lycoming O-320 (typical for later PA-18s, 150-160 hp)

Engine

10.74 m

Wingspan

6.88 m

Length

740 km

Range

166 km/h

Speed

2 passengers

Capacity

793 kg

MTOW

2.04 m

Height

N/A (propeller-driven, thrust not typically rated in jet style)

Thrust

Approx 68-70 dB (no ICAO jet standard applied)

Noise