Piper PA-18 Super Cub: The Ultimate Backcountry Workhorse

Piper PA-18 Super Cub: The Ultimate Backcountry Workhorse

The Piper PA-18 Super Cub is one of the most recognizable and respected taildraggers in aviation history. Known for its simple construction, superb low-speed handling, and short takeoff and landing (STOL) performance, the Super Cub has earned its place as a go-to aircraft for bush pilots, float operators, and recreational flyers alike.

Since its first flight in 1949, the PA-18 has built a reputation not just as a trainer or sport plane—but as a serious, capable tool for reaching the most remote places on the map.

From Cub Roots to a Rugged Upgrade

The Super Cub traces its lineage directly back to the iconic Piper J-3 Cub. However, the PA-18 introduced a number of significant upgrades:

  • More powerful engines, typically starting with the Continental C-90 (90 hp), but most production models featured Lycoming O-235 or O-320 engines with 105 to 150 horsepower.

  • Metal wing spars (post-1954) and improved structure for greater durability.

  • Flaps added for better STOL performance — a feature not present on the J-3.

  • Dual fuel tanks, better brakes, and often a larger electrical system in later models.

Over its production run, Piper built more than 10,000 Super Cubs, with countless others flying today as rebuilds, mods, or kit-based derivatives like the Carbon Cub or Backcountry Super Cub.

STOL Capability That Set the Standard

One of the defining characteristics of the Super Cub is its ability to operate from incredibly short and rough airstrips. With light weight, big flaps, and predictable handling, a well-flown PA-18 can take off and land in as little as 200–300 feet under optimal conditions.

These characteristics made the Super Cub a favorite for:

  • Alaskan bush flying

  • Mountain strip operations

  • Aerial observation and patrol work

  • Float and ski flying

Pilots have also modified Super Cubs extensively with oversized tundra tires, upgraded bungee gear, vortex generators, and performance props — all to squeeze even more capability from an already impressive platform.

What Pilots Say About the PA-18

Pilots across decades describe the Super Cub as “honest,” “responsive,” and “unforgiving only if you get lazy.” It’s a stick-and-rudder aircraft that demands good technique — and rewards it with satisfying control and unmatched versatility.

“There’s a reason people keep going back to the Cub. It’s not just nostalgia — it’s because it works.”
— Backcountry instructor, Idaho

“A Cub will take you places most airplanes won’t even taxi.”
— Alaska bush pilot

Its tandem seating, tailwheel configuration, and high wing make it perfect for spotting landing zones and adapting to rough terrain. And unlike many legacy aircraft, parts, mods, and STCs are still widely available thanks to its ongoing popularity.

A Classic That Still Turns Heads

Even after 70+ years, the Super Cub remains in active use around the world. You’ll find them at airstrips carved into gravel bars, tied down beside float docks, or buzzing low over ridgelines. It’s a timeless aircraft — not just a vintage relic, but a machine that’s still doing the job it was designed to do.

Own the Legend, One Shirt at a Time

For those who’ve flown, rebuilt, or just admired the Super Cub, I’ve created an original shirt design that captures its unmistakable profile and taildragger attitude. Perfect for bush pilots, STOL fans, and anyone who believes that real flying starts with a tailwheel.

🛒 PA-18 Super Cub T-Shirt
🛒 PA-18 Super Cub Head-On View T-Shirt

Legal Disclaimer

All artwork and designs are original creations inspired by historical and modern aircraft. Any model numbers or manufacturer names used are for descriptive purposes only. These products are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any aircraft manufacturer.