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13Apr
Cri-Cri MC-15 Aircraft Specifications
The Cri-Cri MC-15 (nicknamed Cri-Cri, meaning “cricket” in French) is the world’s smallest twin-engine manned aircraft, designed by French engineer Michel Colomban in the 1970s. This ultra-light, homebuilt aircraft is a remarkable feat of engineering—compact, fast, and surprisingly capable, despite its tiny size. Designed primarily for recreational flying and aerobatics, the Cri-Cri is loved by aviation enthusiasts around the world for its unique design, affordability, and performance.
The aircraft features a low-wing monoplane layout, twin engines mounted on the nose, and side-by-side counter-rotating propellers, which contribute to its impressive agility and symmetrical thrust. The Cri-Cri is typically powered by two-stroke engines, although modern builds have also incorporated electric propulsion for experimental and eco-friendly flying.
Description
The Cri-Cri is an extremely compact, single-seat, twin-engine aircraft designed to be built at home using simple tools and materials. The airframe is constructed from aluminum alloy, and the canopy is a bubble-type, giving the pilot excellent visibility. Its minimal weight and powerful twin engines allow for surprisingly good speed, climb rate, and aerobatic capability for such a small aircraft.
With removable wings, the Cri-Cri is easy to transport and store, fitting into a standard trailer or small garage. While it has no cargo or passenger space, it offers a unique and exhilarating flight experience for solo pilots. It’s commonly used for fun flying, formation displays, and even airshows, due to its novelty and maneuverability.
Specifications
| General Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Designer | Michel Colomban |
| Role | Single-seat ultralight, aerobatic aircraft |
| First Flight | 1973 |
| Seating Capacity | 1 (pilot only) |
| Length | 12 ft 1 in (3.68 m) |
| Wingspan | 16 ft 1 in (4.90 m) |
| Height | 3 ft 6 in (1.07 m) |
| Empty Weight | 170–180 lbs (77–82 kg) |
| Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | 375–400 lbs (170–181 kg) |
| Engines | 2 × 15–20 hp two-stroke engines (e.g., JPX PUL 212 or electric alternatives) |
| Propellers | 2-blade fixed-pitch (counter-rotating) |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.8 gallons (18 liters) |
| Range | 280 nautical miles (519 km) |
| Cruise Speed | 110–115 knots (127–132 mph / 204–213 km/h) |
| Maximum Speed | 140 knots (161 mph / 259 km/h) |
| Stall Speed | 50 knots (58 mph / 93 km/h) |
| Rate of Climb | 1,200 ft/min (366 m/min) |
| Service Ceiling | 12,000 ft (3,658 m) |
| Takeoff Distance (50 ft obstacle) | 650 ft (198 m) |
| Landing Distance (50 ft obstacle) | 700 ft (213 m) |
Performance
Despite its small size, the Cri-Cri delivers outstanding performance. Its twin engines, lightweight airframe, and streamlined design make it surprisingly fast and agile, reaching speeds up to 140 knots (161 mph). The rate of climb of 1,200 feet per minute is impressive for such a tiny aircraft.
The Cri-Cri is also capable of light aerobatics, including rolls, loops, and inverted flight (in properly configured builds). With fuel efficiency and low operating costs, it’s a budget-friendly aircraft that delivers an exciting flying experience. Its counter-rotating propellers help eliminate torque effects, improving stability.
20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General & Design
- What is the Cri-Cri aircraft?
It’s the world’s smallest twin-engine manned aircraft, designed for recreational flying and homebuilding. - Who designed the Cri-Cri?
The Cri-Cri was designed by Michel Colomban, a French aeronautical engineer. - Why is it called “Cri-Cri”?
“Cri-Cri” means “cricket” in French, inspired by its small size and buzzing twin engines. - Is the Cri-Cri a kit aircraft?
It’s typically built from plans or kits, making it a homebuilt aircraft. - What is the aircraft made from?
The airframe is primarily constructed from aluminum alloy, with a plexiglass canopy.
Performance & Flying
- How fast does the Cri-Cri fly?
It cruises around 110 knots and can reach up to 140 knots. - What is its range?
It can fly about 280 nautical miles (519 km) on a full tank. - How high can the Cri-Cri fly?
The service ceiling is around 12,000 feet. - Is the Cri-Cri aerobatic?
Yes, it can perform light aerobatics, including rolls and loops. - What is its stall speed?
The Cri-Cri stalls at around 50 knots (58 mph).
Engines & Power
- How many engines does the Cri-Cri have?
It has two engines, typically 15–20 hp each. - What kind of engines are used?
Common engines include JPX PUL 212, Limbach, or electric motors in modern variants. - Can the Cri-Cri use electric engines?
Yes, several electric versions have been built and flown. - Are the engines counter-rotating?
Yes, they are counter-rotating, which reduces torque and improves control. - How much fuel does it carry?
The fuel tank holds about 4.8 gallons (18 liters).
Building & Ownership
- Can I build a Cri-Cri at home?
Yes, it is designed as a homebuilt aircraft, with plans and kits available. - How long does it take to build?
Build time ranges from 800 to 1,200 hours, depending on skill and tools. - How much does it cost to build?
Costs range from $10,000 to $20,000 USD, depending on engine and avionics choice. - Is a special license required to fly it?
A Private Pilot License (PPL) is typically required, depending on local aviation regulations. - Can I transport it easily?
Yes, the wings are removable, and it can fit into a small trailer or garage for easy storage and transport.
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