C22

The Comco Ikarus C22 is a two-seat ultralight aircraft manufactured from 1982 to 1992 at the Comco Ikarus factory in Mengen, southern Germany. Built as a strut-braced high-wing aircraft using bolted aluminum tubes with polyester fabric covering, the C22 is one of the defining aircraft of the early German ultralight movement. Over roughly a decade of production, three main variants were built: the base C22, the C22B with an improved wing profile, and the C22C Fox featuring an enclosed fiberglass cabin with doors on both sides and an instrument console.

Engine options span a wide range: early aircraft carry the Rotax 462 or Rotax 532 two-strokes, while later examples frequently feature the Rotax 582 (65 hp). The most sought-after variant is the C22 Aero powered by the Rotax 912 four-stroke (80 hp), which runs considerably smoother and more economically. Cruise speed varies from 130 to 160 km/h depending on engine, with a range of 400 to 600 km.

Buyers looking for a used Comco Ikarus C22 will find aircraft on the German market priced between 5,000 and 15,000 euros. Well-maintained examples with the Rotax 912 can reach up to 20,000 euros. This makes the C22 one of the most affordable ultralight aircraft available and an attractive entry point into ultralight flying.

Key strengths include forgiving flight handling with a thick, docile wing profile, very low acquisition and operating costs, straightforward maintenance thanks to the bolted construction, and modest fuel consumption of 10 to 15 liters per hour. The weaknesses should be acknowledged honestly: the open or only partially enclosed cabin offers limited weather protection, cruise speed is low compared to modern ultralights, and spare parts for older two-stroke variants are becoming increasingly difficult to source.

The C22 is an excellent choice for pilots seeking an uncomplicated, affordable ultralight for circuit flying, local flights and relaxed fair-weather flying. It is ideal for beginners on a tight budget or as a nostalgic second airplane. Those planning long cross-country trips or comfortable touring should consider the successor model, the C42.