FK12 Comet

The B&F FK12 Comet is an ultralight biplane that is virtually unique worldwide – hardly any other series-produced biplane holds ultralight certification. Designed by Peter Funk with inspiration from the legendary Pitts Special, the Comet first flew in 1997 and entered serial production shortly after at B&F Technik in Speyer. To date, around 120 examples have been built. The FK12 combines the romance of classic biplane flying with modern lightweight construction.

The Comet features mixed construction: a steel tube fuselage, carbon fiber (CFRP) spars in the wings, and fabric covering. The tailwheel landing gear underlines its classic character. The FK12 is powered by either a Rotax 912 UL (80 hp) or Rotax 912 ULS (100 hp). Cruise speed is approximately 180 km/h with a range of around 650 km. With g-limits of +6/–3 g, the Comet is approved for basic aerobatic maneuvers. The FK12 is available as a single-seater (S1) and two-seater (S2) with tandem seating.

The used market for the FK12 Comet is limited due to the small production numbers. Used examples with Rotax engines trade between EUR 35,000 and EUR 70,000. Recent Comets with ULPower engines or special equipment can cost well over EUR 100,000.

The FK12's greatest strengths are the unique flying experience with open cockpit and biplane sensation, excellent agility and roll rate, solid construction with carbon fiber spars, and the compact wingspan of only 6.74 m that fits in virtually any hangar. Stall behavior is docile and predictable. Weaknesses include challenging landings with the tailwheel configuration, limited payload especially in the two-seater, lower cruise speed compared to low-wing designs, and a small used market.

The FK12 Comet is aimed at experienced pilots with a passion for sporty, experience-oriented flying. Those who seek the unique charm of a biplane with ultralight certification and are willing to master the challenges of a tailwheel landing gear will find the Comet to be an incomparable aircraft.