Velocity Aircraft Velocity

Single Piston

The Velocity is an American homebuilt aircraft distinguished by its canard configuration and pusher propeller, designed by Danny Maher in the 1980s and sold as a kit by Velocity Aircraft in Sebastian, Florida. Unlike conventional aircraft, the Velocity places a small forward wing ahead of the main wing, with the engine mounted behind the cabin pushing rather than pulling the aircraft through the air. This layout delivers exceptional visibility, efficient cruise performance, and docile stall characteristics, as the forward canard stalls before the main wing, automatically limiting the aircraft's angle of attack. The design has evolved through several variants including the single-engine Velocity SE, the twin-engine Twin, and the turbocharged XL models, with builders typically installing Continental or Lycoming engines ranging from 200 to 310 horsepower. Most Velocity aircraft cruise between 160 and 200 knots, making them among the faster homebuilts in their class, with some turbocharged examples exceeding 220 knots in level flight. The composite construction keeps empty weight low while providing a roomy four-seat cabin with side-by-side seating in front and a bench seat behind, though the pusher configuration means engine noise is notably reduced in the cockpit. The retractable landing gear and sleek fuselage contribute to the type's efficiency, with builders reporting fuel burns around 10 to 14 gallons per hour depending on engine choice and power settings. SkyMeter has tracked 66 flights across 32 airframes and 30 operators, with FORD PETER SCOTT the largest observed operator.