10.12.2025 – Speck-Fehraltorf LSZK

First Flight RV-12iS HB-YRH

 

Builders: Marc Rauch & Samuel Hofmann

Pilot: Samuel Hofmann

 

Clear skies, calm winds, crew and aircraft ready. On 10 December 2025, our RV-12iS, HB-YRH, lifted off for its maiden flight from Speck-Fehraltorf. Sam carried HB-YRH skyward as Marc stood below, taking in the moment. The aircraft flew beautifully – an unforgettable reward after more than 2’300 hours in the workshop.

 

Building an aircraft had long been a dream for both of us, and it eventually turned into a shared adventure filled with high points, setbacks, and plenty of perseverance. We began with great enthusiasm in the summer of 2023, only to be stopped short by a Chapter 11 announcement: Van’s Aircraft had filed for bankruptcy. After a forced six-month pause, spent waiting for parts and trying to decipher American bankruptcy procedures, the build resumed in spring 2024. From then on, every free minute went into the project, and in September 2025 the completed aircraft moved to its new home at Speck-Fehraltorf.

 

This project became an incredible journey and an important part of our friendship. But it would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our families. A heartfelt thank-you goes to our wives, who not only allowed us to spend countless nights and weekends in the workshop, but also kept everything running at home while we chased this dream.

 

Seeing HB-YRH take to the sky for the first time was a truly unforgettable moment – and we look forward to many more beautiful flights ahead.