A Classic Gets New Life and Full-Kit Production
October 2025 marks a revival for one of experimental aviation’s true classics—the Thorp S-18—under new ownership and with full kit production set to resume. The S-18, an all-metal two-seater designed initially as the Thorp T-18 in the early 1960s by John Thorp, gained fame as the first all-metal homebuilt, with a following spanning six decades and over 600 completed aircraft.
New Era, New Owner
New owner Alex Pearson, a longtime Thorp enthusiast, acquired the rights to the S-18 in August after spotting a call for transition on social media—a deal made in just hours out of deep personal passion for the design. Under Pearson’s stewardship, the S-18 is undergoing a full modernization, with conversion of plans into CAD, refined build manuals, and the development of prefabricated components for the first time. This brings the S-18 fully into the 21st century, making it more accessible to modern builders seeking speed, performance, and a storied pedigree in their experimental projects.
‘Fighter-Like’ Feel and 170-200 MPH Cruise Speeds
The S-18 stands out for its responsive handling, 40-inch shoulder width, and wings that fold for easy storage—an upgrade over the older T-18 design. Owners praise the S-18’s “fighter-like” feel and crisp cruise speeds of 170–200 mph, depending on powerplant selection, which range from classic O-290 engines to modern Lycoming O-320/360 setups.
Pearson’s plans for the kit program include the release of both parts and subkits, as well as a future “ready to fly” option and builder-assist program in San Antonio, Texas.
Thorp S-18 Specifications
- Kit Price w/o Engine: ~$35,000
- Plans Price: ~$395
- Number of Seats: 2
- Building Materials: M
- Building Time: ~1900 HRS
- Standard Engine: Lyc. 0-290/320/360
- Horsepower: 135-180
- Wing Span: 20.10 Ft.
- Wing Area: 86 Sq. Ft.
- Empty Weight: 1000 Lbs.
- Gross Weight: 1600 Lbs.
- Takeoff Distance: 900 Ft.
- Landing Distance: 1200 Ft.
- Cruise Speed: 180 MPH
- Top Speed: 200 MPH
- Fuel Capacity: 29 Gal.
- Range: 540 Miles
Emphasis on Community Support
Community support for the S-18 is impressive; the new team is actively re-engaging builders through traditional fly-ins, like the long-running Kentucky Dam gathering (October 10–12, 2025), and social media outreach. Pearson has already implemented upgrades, including removable floor panels and new access points, in response to owner requests, thereby delivering a responsive and dynamic support environment.
For experimental aviators, the Thorp transition represents the restoration of a homebuilt legacy and an affirmation of the strength of the design, and of the grassroots experimental community. Seasoned S-18 builders and newcomers alike are finding renewed energy in the program, ready to see how modern tools and community support redefine what’s possible for classic designs. With fresh kits, new leadership, and strong engagement, Thorp S-18 enthusiasts can look forward to the design remaining relevant for decades into the future.
