Innovaviation S.r.l. FX-1

By AviatorDB Data Bureau

Innovaviation S.r.l. FX-1 — general aviation

Overview

The INNOVAVIATION FX-1 is a modern Italian-made light sport aircraft that represents the fourth-generation evolution of the JetFox series.

Aircraft Information

ICAO Code
FX1
Manufacturer
Innovaviation S.r.l.
Model
FX-1
Primary Role
General Aviation

Technical Data

Engine Type
Piston
Engine Model
Rotax 912 ULS
Production Years
2017-2026
First Flight
2017

The INNOVAVIATION FX-1 is a modern Italian-made light sport aircraft that represents the fourth-generation evolution of the JetFox series. It is characterized by its high-wing configuration, carbon-fiber composite construction, and a distinctive high-mounted engine layout designed for recreational and sport aviation.

The INNOVAVIATION FX-1 is a two-seat recreational aircraft developed by Innovaviation S.r.l. in Corropoli, Italy. Designed by Alfredo Di Cesare, who has over 35 years of experience in sport aviation, the FX-1 is the fourth-generation successor to the JetFox series. This lineage began with the JetFox 91 in 1991 and the JetFox 97, the latter of which saw production numbers between 140 and 180 units. The FX-1 integrates modern CAD optimization with a proven high-wing, side-by-side layout to bridge the gap between 1990s ultralight heritage and contemporary aviation technology.

Technically, the FX-1 is noted for its extensive use of carbon-fiber composites in the fuselage, skin, and cabin, though it retains a welded steel tube mainframe. A defining design feature is the cantilevered, pylon-style engine mount that positions the powerplant high above the cockpit and wing area. The aircraft also features an elliptical wing planform inspired by the Spitfire and a wide ergonomic cabin measuring 1.26 meters in width. Engineering contributions were further supported by Chief Engineer Paolo Silvestrini, who was involved in flight tests and presentations between 2018 and 2019.

Power is provided by a BRP-Rotax 912 ULS, a 100 hp four-cylinder, four-stroke horizontally opposed piston engine featuring liquid-cooled cylinder heads and an air-cooled cylinder block. This engine is paired with a 67-inch three-bladed composite E-prop. For operators seeking higher efficiency and lower emissions, a fuel-injected Rotax 912iS Sport is offered as an alternative. Performance figures quoted by the manufacturer include a maximum continuous speed of 220 km/h and a cruise speed of 200 km/h at 75% power. The aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 600 kg and a reported range of 1,200 km.

Production began with prototype flight trials in early 2017, with the Italian-registered prototype I-C713 appearing at the AERO Friedrichshafen show in April 2017. The FX-1 expanded into the United States market in August 2019, achieving FAA Special Light-Sport Aircraft (SLSA) acceptance as #150. This milestone was marked by inaugural flights at Mt. Vernon Outland Airport in Illinois and an appearance at Oshkosh 2019. While total production numbers are not publicly disclosed, the aircraft remains in limited boutique production as of 2026, serving private owners for recreational and sport flying.