Pitts Biplane Canopies?

Question

Hey everyone, I have seen models of the Pitts S-2 with double open cockpit, one closed one open, and completely closed canopy. Is there such a thing as a 'convertable' canopy where you can have it open on beautiful flying days and closed on rainy days? Thanks a lot! -Lee

Answer 1

Your question made me laugh.

RAINY DAYS?

The Pitts is made of fabric and wood - and probably shouldn't be out flying in the rain.

There are three configurations for the canopy on a 2 seat Pitts.

You can have

1. all open with just wind guards, (more common on a Starduster or Acroduster)

2. front seat open with just a wind guard, and the back seat canopy (many S2As are like this)

3. double canopy (most S2Bs and Cs are like this)

You can also cover up the front seat and just fly it from the back seat - like an S2-S .. this becomes a single seat airplane.

Answer 2

Here is a picture of one with a slider canopy, I don't know if it can be opened in the air, but it most likely can be removed.

http://www.easterwoodairport.com/images/...

The canopy wouldn't be able to slide back far enough on a two seat Pitts though.

Answer 3

Nope. No such animal.

Answer 4

The slider canopy is a single seat Pitts, not an S2.  There is a listing in Trade A Plane right now for a1992 S-2B in Texas that has a removable rear windscreen for open cockpit operation, but this is rare.  A more common removable canopy kit on the S-2 series is a single cockpit canopy.  The front seat is covered and the canopy is smaller for improved performance.  There was also a single seat only version of the S-2 built, the S-2S.