CubCrafters has received European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approval for the 215 HP version of its XCub aircraft, including both the conventional tailwheel XCub and nosewheel-equipped NX Cub.
The approval covers the CC19-215 configuration, powered by the fuel-injected Lycoming IO-390-D3B6 engine, marketed by CubCrafters as the CC393i. EASA issued the Major Change Approval on June 15, 2026, covering both landing gear configurations.
The approval allows CubCrafters to offer the 215 HP configuration to European operators and customers. The engine uses dual electronic ignition systems and produces 215 HP, compared with the 180 HP output of the legacy carbureted engine option.
“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,” said Patrick Horgan, President and CEO of CubCrafters. “Seeing that technology now approved by EASA in both the XCub and NX Cub is something we’re very proud of. It reflects our continued commitment to advancing the Cub platform and bringing the latest technology and capability to our customers around the world”, he added.
The CC393i was introduced for the XCub in 2019 following a development program between CubCrafters and Lycoming. The fuel-injected engine incorporates dual electronic ignition and adds about 10 pounds to the aircraft’s empty weight compared with the 180 HP carbureted engine option.
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The engine uses lightweight magnesium components, including the accessory case, oil sump and cold-air induction system. CubCrafters also worked with Lycoming to integrate the engine’s induction, cooling, ignition and propeller systems with the XCub.
The latest EASA approval extends the 215 HP configuration to both XCub and NX Cub aircraft, giving European customers access to the higher-powered configuration while maintaining the aircraft’s existing short takeoff and landing capability.
