Altitude Record of Carbon Cub UL with RS Flight Systems EMU 9xiS

In an incredible demonstration of the capability of modern backcountry aircraft, a CubCrafters Carbon Cub UL climbed to a verified altitude of 37,609 feet (11,460 meters / 7.12 miles) above sea level over the California coast on October 28, 2025 — setting an unofficial new world altitude record for Cub-type aircraft.

This historic climb surpasses the previous record of 30,203 ft (9,206 m) set by pioneering aviator Caro Bayley in a PA-18 Piper Super Cub over Miami, FL in February of 1951. Bayley’s record was recognized internationally by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) in the C-1b light-aircraft class, earning her the prestigious Blériot Medal, and has stood the test of time as the high-altitude benchmark for light STOL aircraft for almost 75 years.

EMU 9xiS in 35,720 ft

The altitude record of the Carbon Cub is also a new altitude record for the RS Flight Systems EMU 9xiS: Until the final altitude of 37,000 ft the EMU showed "all green" to the pilot.

RS Flight Systems congratulates Cub Crafters on this incredible achievement!