University Prepares to Replace Legacy Cessna Fleet With NX Cubs

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) recently announced that its flight team, the Golden Eagles, will be moving out its legacy fleet of Cessna 150s. The aircraft will be replaced by CubCrafters NX Cubs in late 2025.

“We are honored to support the next generation of aviation professionals through this partnership with Embry-Riddle,” expressed Patrick Horgan, President and CEO of CubCrafters. “The NX Cub is an exceptional platform for precision flying, offering unparalleled performance, versatility, and safety. We are excited to see how the Golden Eagles use these aircraft to push the limits of their skill and expertise."

The Golden Eagles Precision Flight Team is based at the ERAU campus and Prescott Regional Airport (PRC) in Prescott, Arizona. Team members currently utilize two Cessna 150s, dubbed ‘Eagle 1’ and ‘Eagle 2’, with upgraded 150-horsepower Lycoming O-320 engines for competitions. The pair has served the team well for the last nearly 40 years, pushing them to 15 national titles as well as a three-peat from 2021 to 2023.

However, with the team expanding and aircraft getting older, the Golden Eagles have decided to pursue a fleet exchange. After analyzing several options, the organization has landed on one of CubCrafter’s best backcountry beasts: the NX Cub.

The NX Cub is a Part 23 design with a 215-hp Lycoming IO-930 power plant. The machine weighs in at 1,216 pounds empty, leaving 1,084 lbs for front and back seat occupants and gear. It creates a 150 mph cruise speed and a 1,500 feet per minute climb, though it is most known for its short takeoff and landing (STOL). The manufacturer reports a 120-foot takeoff distance and an 80-foot landing distance.

“Our team is constantly seeking ways to enhance our training and performance,” explained Golden Eagles head coach Shaun Shephard. “We believe that the NX Cub will be invaluable in developing our pilots’ precision flying skills, and we are incredibly grateful to CubCrafters for their support.”

The three new NX Cubs are slated for delivery in late 2025.

FMI: www.prescott.erau.edu, www.cubcrafters.com