Lean, Mean, Pared-Down Machine Shows Off Its New Facelift
Top Rudder Aircraft has been taunting light sport lovers for years with its plans to create a new backcountry beast, and the time has finally come for the manufacturer to show off its work. The production-version Ruckus Experimental Light Sport Aircraft (ELSA) was displayed at the 2025 SUN ‘n FUN aerospace expo in Lakeland, Florida.
Based on a Troy Woodard creation, the Ruckus design was acquired by Bryce Angell’s Top Rudder Aircraft in early 2024. Angell took on the project with two main goals: keep it affordable while ensuring it was a helluva short-field performer. It seems so far that the Ruckus has done just that.
The aircraft has a variety of engine options, including the Rotax 503, 582, or 912, as well as the Polini Thor 303 and the Hirth 23. This is a relatively large power range for a reason- the manufacturer wanted to let customers choose whether they wanted to take up the full 1,000 pounds of useful load by using a bigger engine, or keep the 20-knot stall speed and ultralight-style characteristics by going with a smaller one.
“It’s designed like a 1300-pound aircraft that we’ve modified for two entirely different kinds of flying,” explained Top Rudder Chief Engineer George Boney. “Or, you can add another fuel tank, a slightly larger engine and tires and have an inexpensive backcountry sport plane that has real STOL capabilities.”
The bird also has some interesting accessories available. On top of windshield modifications, a USB port, a storage box, a belly pod, and floats, customers have the option to put Starlink on their flight for around $1,500 extra, taking glamping to a whole new level.
The ‘inexpensive’ part comes in with the $40,000 base price and the ability to fold and trailer the Ruckus, potentially getting rid of hangar fees. It is offered as a kit, though it currently must be built with the Top Rudder team in South Carolina. Customers can now reserve an aircraft with a $15,000 deposit or wait a little longer for the Ruckus’s Part 103 little sister to come out.
“The Ruckus is designed to make every journey unforgettable,” Top Rudder wrote. “From its responsive handling to its impressive range, this aircraft turns the sky into your playground."
FMI: www.toprudderaircraft.com
