HISTORY

• The Pitts Special, S-1 and S-2 models, were designed, beginning in 1943, by Curtis Pitts as lightweight aerobatic biplanes that ruled aerobatic contests during the 1960s and 1970s. It became the standard for all other aerobatic aircraft. In 1972, Pitts Specials were exclusively used by the U.S. Aerobatic Team to win the World Championship.
• In 1944, Pitts first prototype flew and we refined in the intervening years. The two-seat version S-2, which was mostly retained the original design, was affectionately called the “Big Stinker”.
• Pitts Enterprises began selling plans for the S-1C in 1962 for the homebuilt market. The S-2 first flew in 1967 and was type certified in 1971 among the new factory-built aircraft being produced by Pitts Enterprises. The company traded ownership between several successive companies from 1977-1994: Doyle Child, Christen Industries, Steen Aero Lab, and Aviat.

DISTINCTION

• Planes of Fame Air Museum’s Pitts S-B2 is a customized version named “Bose Double Take”, the world’s first and only airplane designed for double takes – inverted takeoffs and landings. Double Take was conceived, built, and flown by Craig Hosking, the first and only pilot ever admitted to the International Stunt Association (ISA) of Hollywood’s top stunt men. Craig first demonstrated inverted landing in 1984, yet remains the singular individual to master this still daring – once “impossible” – dream.
• The custom designed aircraft began as a Pitts S-2B, selected for its powerful engine, solid airframe and outstanding performance. It was purchased as N360PS. Modifications were planned and drawn up with the help of Dan Sorensen, an aerobatic pilot, draftsman, aircraft builder and welder. With their design completed for stress analysis, Craig and Dan submitted it to Raja Mohan, and aeronautical engineer, for structural analysis before modifications could begin. Initial test flights went well, as did Craig’s first official takeoff on February 21, 1985. His first inverted landing followed in six days on February 27.
• Craig is one of the top airshow performers, having received the annual Art Scholl Memorial Award for showmanship, presented by ICAS (International Council of Airshows). From mountain rescuer to news helicopter pilot to flight instructor to safety officer to aerobatic flight performer, Craig Hosking has touched all bases.  Quite a few of them he approached from upside down!

SPECIFICATIONS