Built for the Way You Fly
RANS engineers distinctive all-metal and high-performance sport aircraft for pilots, kit builders, backcountry exploration, and personal aviation adventure.
S-21 Outbound
High-Performance All-Metal Backcountry & Cross-Country AircraftThe S-21 Outbound is RANS's premier all-metal high-wing aircraft, engineered for rugged backcountry STOL performance without sacrificing cross-country speed, payload, or cabin comfort.
Which RANS Fits Your Mission?
Every pilot's mission is unique. Compare seating, landing gear layout, STOL takeoff roll, payload, and cruise speeds.
| Aircraft Model | Primary Mission | Seats & Layout | Gear Type | Useful Payload | Takeoff Roll | Cruise Speed | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-21 OutboundFLAGSHIP | Rugged Backcountry STOL & 155 mph Fast Cruise | 2 (Side-by-Side) | Taildragger or Tricycle | 815 lbs | 325 ft | 155 mph | Explore S-21 → |
| S-20 Raven | Versatile Bush Flying & Folding Wing Hangar Storage | 2 (Side-by-Side) | Taildragger or Tricycle | 580 lbs | 300 ft | 112 mph | Overview → |
| S-7S Courier | Classic Tandem Bush Flying & Backcountry Training | 2 (Tandem) | Taildragger | 588 lbs | 300 ft | 110 mph | Overview → |
| S-19 Venterra | Sleek Low-Wing Light Sport & Cross-Country Cruising | 2 (Side-by-Side) | Tricycle Gear | 500 lbs | 325 ft | 136 mph | Overview → |
S-21 Outbound
Rugged Backcountry STOL & 155 mph Fast Cruise
S-20 Raven
Versatile Bush Flying & Folding Wing Hangar Storage
S-7S Courier
Classic Tandem Bush Flying & Backcountry Training
S-19 Venterra
Sleek Low-Wing Light Sport & Cross-Country Cruising
In-Production Aircraft Lineup
Engineered and manufactured in the USA. Available as builder kits or factory assembled Ready-To-Fly Light Sport Aircraft.
FLAGSHIP DEMOS-21 Outbound
Flagship All-Metal Backcountry & CruiseRANS flagship all-metal high-wing aircraft engineered for STOL backcountry utility and effortless 155 mph cross-country cruising.
EXPANSION ROADMAPS-20 Raven
Side-by-Side Versatile Bush PlaneVersatile side-by-side seating bush plane blending S-7S backcountry capability with a wider cabin and folding wings option.
EXPANSION ROADMAPS-7S Courier
Tandem High-Wing Backcountry LegendThe quintessential American backcountry tandem trainer and bush plane, refined over 35+ years of active aviation.
EXPANSION ROADMAPS-19 Venterra
Low-Wing Light Sport AircraftSleek low-wing all-metal aircraft optimized for smooth cross-country cruising, sport flying, and kit building.
Built in Hays, Kansas — Founded by Randy Schlitter
Since 1983, founder and chief aircraft designer Randy Schlitter has spearheaded RANS's mission to craft airplanes that deliver performance beyond tradition.
Every RANS aircraft is designed, manufactured, and test-flown at our factory facilities in Hays, Kansas. With over 4,000 aircraft delivered worldwide, RANS remains dedicated to American precision engineering, accessible kit building, and continuous innovation.
RANS Aircraft & Kits are proudly manufactured and built in the United States of America.
Living the Backcountry Mission
Freedom beyond airport fences. From off-grid mountain strips and river gravel bars to sunrise flights and grass runway camping.
Search Documentation
Quickly find manuals, builder resources, newsletters, service information, forms, and aircraft documentation.
The RANS Builder Journey
From initial aircraft discovery to your first backcountry flight — an intuitive step-by-step path.
Explore Aircraft & Specs
Compare performance numbers, engine options (Titan 340, Rotax 915/916/912), landing gear layouts, and gross weights.
Request Factory Quote
Submit your custom kit or Ready-To-Fly configuration form directly to the RANS factory sales team.
Receive Your Kits
Receive modular precision-formed sub-kits (Rudder, Tail, Wings, Fuselage) delivered in custom protective crates.
Build with Confidence
Follow detailed text manuals, CAD drawings, and video guides with zero welding required during assembly.
Access Builder Support
Leverage official RANS technical documentation, factory builder workshops, and community builder photos.
First Flight & Beyond
Complete your airworthiness inspection, take to the skies, and join 40+ years of active RANS aviators.
Latest News & Announcements
Stay up to date with new RANS products, factory events, and builder options.
OCT 9-10, 2026Fly-In & Open House 2026
📍 OCTOBER 9-10TH, 2026 • Hays, Kansas Factory AirfieldJoin hundreds of RANS builders, owners, and aviation enthusiasts for factory tours, demonstration flights, builder workshops, and community flying.
Learn More About Fly-In 2026 ↗
CABIN OPTIONLuxury Seating Option for S-21 Outbound
📍 Available Now for Kit & RTFUpgrade your S-21 Outbound cockpit with ergonomic contoured leather luxury seats designed for maximum comfort on long cross-country flights.
View Luxury Seats Spec Sheet (PDF) ↗Connect with RANS Designs
Have questions about the S-21 Outbound kit options, build times, lead times, or builder workshops? Contact the factory team in Hays, Kansas.
4600 Hwy 183 Alternate
Hays, Kansas 67601 USA
RANS factory headquarters is located directly on the airfield. Experience a factory demonstration flight with our pilot team.