Aerial Cinematography: Pitts S-2B

Aviat Pitts S-2B

The Pitts S-2B offers aerobatic capabilities not available in other camera ships. Very unique, indeed, a Pitts modified for camera ship duty is not a widely available airplane, but the aerial cinematographer and aerial coordinator will know when and how to obtain one. Quick and agile, the Pitts S-2B is suitable for aerial chase scenes and high speed POVs, such as crash simulation, aerial dogfights or skimming over terrain. So unique is this particular platform, that like the Learjet with its Vectorvision and Astrovision systems, the Pitts can be thought of as a dedicated aerial filming system.

Available through:
Aerobatic Film Systems
7641 Densmore Ave.
Van Nuys, CA 91406
T: 818.997.0512
F: 818.997.0478

Mount Compatibility

Pitts S-2B camera ships usually use custom installed mounting plates for the camera and the method will differ depending on the aircraft's owner. These mounts can hold a variety of cameras, but the type and availability of remote functionality will need to be verified by the owner of the plane. Video assist with recording capability is a must for ground playback.

Pitts S-2B Specifications

For general reference only. The following specifications are for the Pitts S-2B. They do not consider the altered weight-and-balance characteristics or resulting restrictions on inflight performance with installed camera mounting systems.
Length:	18 ft 9 in (5.72 m)
Wingspan:	20 ft (6.02 m)
Height:	6 ft 7.5 in (2.01 m)
Empty weight:	1,150 lbs (521 kg)
Gross weight (aerobatic category):	1,625 lbs (737 kg)
Gross weight (normal category):	1,700 lbs (771 kg)
Useful load:	475 lbs (215 kg)
Wing loading (aerobatic category):	13 lbs/sq. ft.
Wing loading (normal category):	13.6 lbs/sq. ft.
Wing loading (aerobatic category):	6.25 lbs/hp
Wing loading (normal category):	6.54 lbs/hp
Top speed:	186 mph/162 kts
Cruise speed:	174 mph/151 kts
Stall speed:	63 mph/55 kts
Never exceed speed (V^NE ¹):	213 mph/185 kts
Rate of roll:	240°/sec
Rate of climb:	2,700 fpm
Range: (55% power, .5 hr reserve)	319 miles/277 nm (513.5 km)
¹ V^NE: Velocity Not To Exceed

Important Considerations

Camera mounts will usually be hard or fixed, i.e., nonoperational, although camera angles should be adjustable before locking down.
This aircraft is designed for pulling heavy Gs. Cameras and magazines must be securely locked into position so as not to become dislodged during maneuvers.
Forward looking POVs will be above the centerline of the aircraft's rotation or off to the side on the wing support struts. This is necessary so as not to photograph the prop. However, this off-nodal postioning should be negligible in the typical camera/subject distances encountered.
Although the S-2B is a two-seater suited for advanced aerobatic training, for camera ship duty an additional passenger may not be possible. Consult with the aircraft's pilot.
Being a fairly lightweight aircraft, the Pitts can be easily buffeted with increased winds, which can induce instability in the image quality. However, this may or may not be an issue considering the aerobatic work the Pitts is most often utilized for.