Designed by Curtiss Pitts, the S-1S is a light single-engine aerobatic monoplane that dominated world aerobatic competitions. In the early 1970s, it was held as the ultimate aerobatic aircraft.

So how does it fly in the sim?

Startup and Shutdown

One is immediately struck by just how small the airplane is (see screenshot above). Outside the plane, you can perform a variety of interesting tasks and checks (like removing covers, chocks, and examining the landing gear). You can even check the tire pressure and move the rudder and ailerons!

The Pitts has a rustic, simple cockpit, and starting is easy. You’ll find mixture on the left, magneto towards the left of the panel, and things like battery and alternator on the center panel.

Keep in mind the airplane does not have a parking brake! Besides the lack of this seemingly essential feature, taxiing is very maneuverable. It’s a taildragger, so visibility is a little limited. Keep in mind that you have to remove the chocks and all covers before the engine can actually start, which adds a delightful level of realism. Turning too sharply at high taxi speeds will result in one wing eating the ground.

Flight and Handling

The Lycoming engine makes sure the small plane can take off at around 60-70 knots. It does have a tendency to swerve a little on the runway, so mind the rudder. Any aerobatic maneuvers attempted before the airplane gets properly up to speed will end in a stall.

Once in flight, the Pitts is very unstable. This means it’s maneuverable, but it rocks from side to side frantically. Loops, barrel rolls, and other aerobatic endeavors are best enjoyed at altitude. Although it may seem counterintuitive, it needs to be flown gently directly after takeoff. Visibility is pretty restricted even during flight. Additionally, the cockpit glass tints your surroundings a light grey.

However, despite this, once you get up to speed it is extremely fun to fly.

The controls for the flaps are either really well hidden or just don’t exist in Asobo’s version, so slowing down only involves throttle action. And as for stopping/braking after landing – don’t pick a short runway.

A lot of bounces are involved in landing, and without practice, the airplane is all over the runway.

Rating

A bouncy 8.4/10. Although somewhat inconvenient to get started, takeoff, and land, flying the airplane is quite enjoyable and it’s very easy to start up and shut down.