RV-12iS Overview
The RV-12iS is Van’s Aircraft’s entry in the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) market. Designed under the initial LSA FAA regulations, these limited aircraft to 120 knots and 1320 lbs maximum takeoff weight, and allow pilots to fly it without having to maintain an FAA medical. The medical is basic but can still be a real hassle with all the hoops that sometimes need to be jumped through for benign medical conditions.
Recent changes (2025/2026) with the FAA’s MOSAIC ruling allows the RV-12iS to actually be flown in true IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions). Perfect for those foggy Bay Area summer mornings!
With the new FAA rulings there are sure to be more capable LSA airplanes designed and developed in the future, as the weight and speed limitations have been abandoned in favor of stall speed criteria.
However, I still love the idea of an RV-12iS for a local sightseeing and weekend fun flyer, not necessarily a serious traveling machine. Which is the type of flying I do 80-90% of the time. And it’s one of the most economical airplanes to operate.
Yeah, it’s not fast. It cannot haul much. It has a small fuel tank. However, the visibility from the cockpit is unmatched, it’s got a modern glass cockpit—a true technologically advanced aircraft from an avionics perspective—will make it a fun aircraft to fly and stay current in.
Avionics
One of the benefits of the RV-12iS is that it provides three options for fully designed, tried and tested avionics choices and layouts. Well that’s great, what’s the trade? Additional cost in exchange for countless hours saved not having to plan, design and build a custom panel.
I will likely opt for the Garmin G3X IFR package.
Renegade 12 