Backcountry Capability Meets Builder-Friendly Design
SilverLight Aviation is setting the homebuilt market abuzz with its Recon Airplane kit, launched nationally at Sun ’n Fun last spring and now gaining momentum ahead of winter in the U.S.
This high-wing, quick-build kit is designed on the venerable Avid Flyer platform and expressly tailored to American pilots demanding more comfort, baggage capacity, and utility, without losing the ease of assembly that defines the best homebuilt experience.
A Quick Build kit for the back country
The Recon’s $75,000 base price includes a covered and painted airframe, ready-to-install wheels, brakes, and a durable aluminum leaf spring undercarriage built for rough terrain. The kit supports Rotax 912, 915, and 916 series engines, offering firewall-forward packages and options for propeller, avionics, wiring, and even oversized tailwheel tires for $1,800—perfect for pilots targeting backcountry airfields or soft grass strips.
One of the Recon’s most praised features is its folding high-wing, a nod to modern storage and transport needs. Builders—whether novice or seasoned—can tackle assembly with standard tools, opening the door to hands-on completion and fewer barriers to entry. Available in both tailwheel and tri-gear configurations, the Recon gives owners true flexibility for mission-specific flying and adaptation to personal preferences.
No compromise on comfort or utility
SilverLight’s messaging, led by founder Abid Farooqui, champions a direct response to market demand: a homebuilt that does not compromise on comfort or utility, and stands out for its modular kit structure. Builders are reportedly enthusiastic, citing SilverLight’s support program, step-by-step manuals, and regular customer engagement through online forums and demo flights. The kit’s ready coverage and paint eliminate much of the time and cost usually reserved for finishing work, further accelerating the journey from parts to first flight.
With market interest expanding, SilverLight is stepping up outreach and providing increased demonstration activity into the winter, positioning the Recon as a top contender for backcountry flyers and kit enthusiasts alike. As more builders complete their kits and report strong field performance, the Recon’s reputation for delivering reliable, capable, and highly customizable backcountry flying is expected to grow. It’s easy to see why the kit is being touted as one of the year’s most anticipated new offerings for hands-on pilots.
