Aerolite Spitfire – An Overview

The Aerolite Spitfire is styled principally on the high-back Mk IX and Mk XIX Spitfires. Its form remains unmistakably Spitfire, but several carefully considered changes accommodate a lighter modern engine, a second pilot and the requirements of today’s and tomorrow’s recreational flying. 

• Appearance and configuration — The Griffon-length nose is close in proportion to that of the Mk XIX. The tandem cockpit has been moved forward accommodating a second pilot while retaining the visual balance of a Merlin-powered Mk IX. The rear canopy is approximately 50% longer than the original, helping retain the appearance of a single-seat fighter. 

• Composite construction — The airframe is constructed principally from moulded glass and carbon-fibre/epoxy composites, for high structural strength at substantially reduced weight. 

• Aerodynamic character — The aerodynamic form remains as faithful to the Spitfire as practical while being adapted to the Aerolite’s lower weight, modern powerplant and recreational role. 

• Enlarged tail group —greater stability and control authority. 

• Ventral airbrake —reduces float during landing. 

• Wider undercarriage — approximately 50% wider than the original Spitfire, significantly improving ground handling and stability. 

• Griffon-length nose — helps compensate for the lighter modern engine and the weight of the second pilot, maintaining the required centre-of-gravity range. 

• Detachable wings — reduce hangarage requirements and make road transport practical. 

• Low weight and modest power — maximum take-off weight is approximately 75% that of a Mk I Spitfire, while the 400 hp engine provides around 40% of the Mk I’s power. 

• Aerobatic capability — design limit load factors are +6g / –4g, appropriate to the aircraft’s intended aerobatic role. 

• Maximum design speed — approximately 220 mph in level flight at sea level under standard atmospheric conditions. 

• Range and endurance — anticipated range is approximately 1,000 miles at 174 knots (200 mph) at maximum design weight with two crew, with an endurance of approximately five hours plus a 30-minute fuel reserve.  

The Aerolite Spitfire preserves the shape, presence and character of the original, while providing the safety, practicality and operating economics expected of a modern recreational aircraft.