CubCrafters secures EASA approval for 215 HP XCub

Certification covers the tailwheel XCub and the nosewheel NX Cub, which uses nose landing gear and spring main landing gear.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has approved the 215 HP version of CubCrafters' XCub, extending European certification to both the tailwheel XCub and the nosewheel NX Cub.

The Major Change Approval, issued on 15 June 2026, covers the CC19-215 model powered by the fuel-injected Lycoming IO-390-D3B6 engine, marketed by CubCrafters as the CC393i. The approval also extends to the NX Cub configuration, which uses nose landing gear and spring main landing gear.

The engine, developed jointly by CubCrafters and Lycoming, produces 215 HP and incorporates a dual electronic ignition system. It adds only 10 pounds to the aircraft's empty weight compared with a similar carburetted 180 HP option, helped by magnesium components in the accessory case, oil sump and cold-air induction system. CubCrafters worked with Lycoming to integrate the engine, induction, cooling, ignition and propeller systems into the XCub airframe.

The CC393i was launched for the XCub at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2019 as the debut platform for Lycoming's dual electronic ignition technology, building on the earlier 186 HP CC363i engine.

Patrick Horgan, President and CEO of CubCrafters, says: "When we partnered with Lycoming to introduce the CC393i in 2019, we saw an opportunity to bring more power and new technology to the XCub platform, including Lycoming's dual electronic ignition system. Seeing that technology approved by EASA in both the XCub and NX Cub is something we're very proud of."

European customers can order the CC19-215 across both XCub configurations, with the 215 HP powerplant increasing performance while retaining the range, useful load, cruise capability and short takeoff and landing performance associated with the aircraft.