The Rutan VariEze is a two-seat homebuilt, canard-configured, single-engine piston aircraft design. Discover Rutan VariEze aircraft for sale worldwide on AvPay. Browse active Rutan VariEze listings and find available aircraft across the USA, North America, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and South America. Connect directly with aircraft brokers, private sellers, flying clubs, flight schools and manufacturers. Explore the full inventory of aircraft for sale on AvPay here!
Finding a Rutan VariEze for Sale on AvPay
AvPay offers a global marketplace for Rutan VariEze aircraft, connecting buyers and sellers across the USA, North America, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and beyond. If you want a distinctive canard pusher design with strong efficiency credentials, the Rutan VariEze remains one of the most searched experimental aircraft in its class.
Refine your Rutan VariEze search on AvPay with our easy-to-use filters. Quickly find your perfect aircraft by condition, year, total time, location, price and seller.
As a leading aviation marketplace, AvPay features a diverse range of aircraft for sale including the Rutan VariEze. Explore our full Scaled Composites selection here, or browse all aircraft from various manufacturers here.
Found your ideal Rutan VariEze? Connect directly with sellers on AvPay via WhatsApp, private message or phone to discuss build documentation, configuration choices and maintenance history for the Rutan VariEze aircraft for sale.
Interesting facts about the Rutan VariEze
✈ Burt Rutan designed the VariEze to deliver efficient cross-country cruise using a canard layout and a rear mounted pusher propeller.
✈ The VariEze became one of the most influential kit and plans aircraft of the 1970s and 1980s, with hundreds completed by amateur builders.
✈ Early development included a Volkswagen powered prototype, then the plans configuration shifted toward a 100 hp Continental O-200 installation.
✈ The structure relies heavily on composite construction methods, including foam cores with fiberglass skins, which can reduce corrosion concerns compared with metal airframes.
✈ The canard configuration resists conventional main wing stalls, which shaped the aircraft’s safety messaging and handling expectations for builders.
✈ Many completed aircraft use builder selected avionics, so the panel can range from basic day VFR to modern glass depending on budget and build era.
✈ Weight control matters on the VariEze because useful load can vary widely between examples, especially if builders added heavier engines or equipment.
✈ The design directly influenced later canard aircraft, including the Long-EZ, which expanded the concept into a larger airframe with different mission tradeoffs.
Model Variants for buyers to consider when purchasing a Rutan VariEze
Buyers will most often hear people distinguish between the early prototype configuration and the later plans built standard. The first prototype, often referenced as Model 31, flew with a Volkswagen conversion and helped prove the canard pusher concept in service. The refined plans aircraft, commonly linked to the later prototype known as Model 33, adopted a larger wing and centred on the Continental O-200 powerplant. These differences matter because engine choice affects parts support, cooling approach, weight and balance and resale appeal, so listings should clearly state the engine model and whether the airframe matches the plans configuration or a modified build.
Rutan VariEze Specifications
Information provided here is as a guide only. This information should not be used for flight planning or other aircraft operations. Aircraft model variations, custom specifications, modifications, upgrades and age will have a considerable impact on the details listed below. Please check with the seller, manufacturer or aviation authority for the precise aircraft specifications.
Length: 4.27 m (14 ft 2 in)
Wingspan: 6.77 m (22 ft 2.5 in)
Empty Weight: 263 kg (580 lb)
Max Take Off Weight (MTOW): 476 kg (1,050 lb)
Fuel Capacity: 91 L (24 US gal)
Cruise Speed: 266 km/h (165 mph, 143 kn)
Range: 1,370 km (850 mi, 740 nm)
Rate of Climb: 8.1 m/s (1,600 ft/min)
FAQs About the Rutan VariEze
Is the Rutan VariEze a one-seat or two-seat aircraft?
Most references describe a pilot seat plus one passenger seat, so listings typically present the VariEze as a two-seat aircraft. Confirm the seating layout in photos because some builds prioritise baggage or equipment over passenger comfort.
What engine does a typical Rutan VariEze use?
Many plans built examples use a 100 hp Continental O-200 series engine. Some aircraft differ due to builder choices, so verify the exact engine model, logbook history and any modifications that affect cooling or mount structure.
What should I inspect first when evaluating a used Rutan VariEze?
Start with build documentation and inspection signoffs, then focus on composite workmanship, repairs and any history of hangar rash. Confirm control system rigging and look for evidence of thoughtful weight control, especially if the aircraft carries heavier avionics or non standard equipment.
How does the canard configuration affect takeoff and landing compared with conventional aircraft?
The VariEze’s canard design changes the way it approaches stall behaviour and speed management. Pilots often note that it rewards disciplined airspeed control on approach, so buyers should review transition training expectations alongside the aircraft’s handling notes.
What makes VariEze listings vary so much in capability?
Builders selected avionics, electrical systems and interior finishing, so two VariEze aircraft can feel very different in use. Compare useful load, panel capability and maintenance access details rather than assuming every aircraft matches the original plans intent.
Get help buying a Rutan VariEze
Can’t find the Rutan VariEze aircraft you’re looking for? Get in touch with an Aircraft Broker to help you buy an aircraft via the Aircraft Broker Directory. Alternatively you can browse Aircraft Brokerage and Aircraft Acquisition Services through the aviation marketplace to help you with the purchase of a Rutan VariEze airplane.
Sell your Rutan VariEze on AvPay
Do you have a Rutan VariEze aircraft for sale? Get your airplane listed on AvPay and get in front of buyers searching for a Rutan VariEze around the world. AvPay is a Zero Workload Website so you will never have to make your own updates and each aircraft listing will be featured on our Social Media Pages, giving you extra visibility in front of our 190,000+ followers. With AvPay you will generate enquiries through your Aircraft Listings. You will also generate enquiries through your Aircraft Broker Profile and through each of the Service Listings you include on our Aviation Marketplace Pages. Let AvPay promote your Rutan VariEze aircraft for sale.
Get Your Rutan VariEze Aircraft Listed for Sale on AvPay
Find Finance for buying a Rutan VariEze
Need financing to purchase your Rutan VariEze aircraft? Focus lenders on the specific airframe’s build quality and paperwork because experimental aircraft values depend heavily on documentation and condition. Present clear logbooks, engine records and recent inspection details to support underwriting confidence. Confirm the aircraft’s equipment list and panel capability because avionics can materially influence value. Work with aviation finance specialists who understand amateur-built aircraft so they can match terms to the aircraft’s unique market.
Explore Rutan VariEze Aircraft Financing Options
Find Insurance for a Rutan VariEze
Purchasing a Rutan VariEze airplane is an exciting step and ensuring it is properly insured is essential for peace of mind. Ask brokers to quote based on your time in type or transition plan because insurers often focus on canard experience and recent proficiency. Provide build details, inspection status and any repair history because composite aircraft underwriting depends on transparency. Confirm the agreed hull value reflects the aircraft’s equipment and condition and keep supporting documentation ready in case underwriting requests it.
Buy Insurance for Rutan VariEze Aircraft
