Rutan Model 61 Long-EZ
Designer Burt Rutan has become world famous for his unique advanced aircraft designs. In the late 1970s his company, Rutan Aircraft Factory, produced plans for several different types of homebuilt aircraft. One of the most popular is the high performance Long-EZ introduced in 1979. The aircraft’s fiberglass construction allows good performance and speed while using a small, economical engine. The forward canard gives the Long-EZ improved safety characteristics by preventing the aircraft from stalling when flown at low speeds.

John R. Stitt of San Diego, California built the aircraft on display between 1981 and 1983. He flew the aircraft for over 200 hours until his death in 1986. His family donated the plane to the Pima Air & Space Museum in 1987.

Wingspan26 ft 2 in.
Length16 ft 9 in.
Height6 ft 6 in.
Weight800 lbs (loaded)
Maximum Speed185 MPH
Service Ceiling25,000 ft
Range1,500 miles
EngineOne Lycoming O-235-L2C with 115 horsepower
Crew2
ManufacturerRutan
MarkingsJohn R. Stitt, San Diego, California, 1983
DesignationModel 61
RegistrationN82ST
Serial Number442