Pitts S-1 vs Pitts S-2B
The Pitts S-1 (single-seat) and S-2 (two-seat) are the two Pitts competition biplanes — the S-1 lighter and sharper for solo competition, the S-2 a two-seater for training and shared flying.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
- For sale now
- 6
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 5
- Source marketplaces
- 4
- Model years available
- 1972–1987
- For sale now
- 1
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 1
- Source marketplaces
- 1
- Model years available
- 1989–1989
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Pitts S-1 | Pitts S-2B |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 35 | 23 |
| Serious | 3 | 3 |
| Fatal | 7 | 7 |
| Fatalities | 7 | 11 |
| % Fatal | 20% | 30% |
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Pitts S-1 | Pitts S-2B |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $49,946 – $112,113 | — |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 1 | — |
| Cruise Speed | 120 kts (222 km/h) | 152 kts (282 km/h) |
| Range | 273 nm (506 km) | 277 nm (513 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,150 lbs (522 kg) | 1,625 lbs (737 kg) |
| Engines | 1 x Reciprocating | — |
Which Should You Buy: Pitts S-1 or Pitts S-2B?
Bottom line: Choose the S-1 for the sharpest single-seat competition performance; choose the S-2 for two-seat training and the ability to fly aerobatics with a passenger/instructor. S-1 = solo competition; S-2 = two-seat/training. ================================================================ # CROSS-REFS ================================================================ - Extra/American Champion/Mudry mirrors in those files. Christen Eagle = direct biplane rival. Built by Aviat.
Pick the S-1 if…
- More inventory — 5 listings vs 1.
Pick the S-2B if…
- Faster cruise — 152 kts vs 120 kts.
- Longer range — 277 nm vs 273 nm.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.