2 July 2025
US kitplane manufactuer Sonex has announced the first flight of the Sonex Highwing. The flight took place on the evening of Monday, 30 June 2025, piloted by Sonex Advisory Board member Joe Norris.
The flight was kept brief due to a passenger-side door latch issue. However, Sonex said all engine temperatures were in the green and the aircraft handled as expected with only slight rigging adjustments needed.
Weight & balance for the prototype is on target with the aircraft currently at 816 lb empty.
Sonex Highwing outside the Oshkosh hangar. Photo: Sonex
“More flights will take place soon (with wheel pants and gear leg fairings installed) and we will be collecting and reporting performance numbers in the coming weeks,” said Sonex.
The Highwing can be powered by one of several engines ranging from 100 to 130 hp: AeroVee, Jabiru 3300, UL Power or Rotax 9-series.
The wing span can be varied according to whether the pilot wants to fly aerobatics. The short wing aerobatic version has +6/-3 g load factors.
Sonex is planning to show the Highwing at this year’s EAA AirVenture which just happens to be at Oshkosh where Sonex is based.
Sonex Highwing estimated spec
Seats 2
Length 19ft 3.5in
Wingspan 26ft 2.4in
Primary structure 6061-T6 Aluminium
Maximum fuel capacity 30 usg
Cockpit width (interior) 42in
Engine 100-130 hp
Estimated stall speed (clean) 50mph
Design cruise speed 159mph
Empty weight 820 lb
Max weight 1500 lb
