A New Chapter in Backcountry Aviation
Renowned for its specialized backcountry aircraft, CubCrafters has officially ventured into the turbine engine segment. The company recently announced that the latest addition to its fleet, the Carbon Cub ULT, is scheduled for its public unveiling at the upcoming EAA AirVenture event in Oshkosh. Currently, the aircraft is in the final stages of flight testing at the company's manufacturing facility in Yakima, Washington.
Technical Innovation and Performance
The Carbon Cub ULT is marketed as a turbine-driven progression of the existing Carbon Cub UL platform. It aims to bridge the gap between the efficiency of modern sport aviation and the enhanced reliability and operational smoothness of regenerative turbine technology. Notably, it is the first U.S.-built turboprop model that qualifies for operation by sport pilots under the FAA’s MOSAIC regulations, requiring no specialized type rating or endorsement.
At the heart of the aircraft is the TurboTech TP-R90 regenerative turboprop engine, which offers fuel economy and reliability profiles similar to its piston-powered predecessors. The cockpit is designed for ease of use, incorporating full FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) capabilities, push-button ignition, and a simplified single-lever power management system. These features are housed within the lightweight airframe of the latest-generation Carbon Cub UL, which is already recognized for its superior short takeoff and landing (STOL) characteristics.
Strategic Advantages of Turbine Power
Brad Damm, Vice President of CubCrafters, highlighted the unique experience of piloting the new aircraft:
«Despite the turbine engine, it still feels like a Carbon Cub, just with a very different powerplant experience. The simplicity is probably what impresses people the most. There's no mixture, no carb heat, no concerns about shock cooling, and engine management is dramatically simplified. Start it, set the power you want, and go fly.»
The decision to pivot toward turbine technology was largely driven by the practical challenges surrounding aviation gasoline (100LL), which can be scarce or costly in regions outside of North America. Furthermore, as the aviation industry prepares for a transition away from leaded fuels over the coming years, Jet-A fuel is becoming an increasingly practical and accessible long-term alternative for operators.
Availability
CubCrafters has stated that they expect to begin initial customer deliveries of the Carbon Cub ULT in 2027.