The Story Behind the ICP Savannah: From Past to Present
The ICP Savannah has earned its place as one of the most popular light-sport aircraft, especially for those seeking adventure and versatility in their flying experiences. With its incredible STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) capabilities, rugged design, and continuous improvements, it’s no surprise that it has been embraced by pilots worldwide. But how did this legendary aircraft come to be? Let’s take a look at the history of the Savannah, from its humble beginnings to the cutting-edge models of today—and the exciting future that lies ahead.
An Idea Takes Flight: The Birth of the Savannah
Back in the late 1990s, aircraft manufacturers were pushing the boundaries of ultralight aviation. Pilots wanted more—more versatility, more capability, and more safety. That’s when ICP stepped in, launching the Savannah Classic in 1997. This high-wing aircraft, known for its distinctive full-span leading edge slats, was designed to give pilots unmatched control at slow speeds. The Savannah was born to conquer short airstrips and rough fields, perfect for both recreational pilots and those flying in the more remote corners of the world.
From the outset, the Savannah had a strong design pedigree, taking inspiration from earlier STOL aircraft. But what really set it apart was the constant evolution and refinement that followed.
Savannah VG: The Game-Changer (2004)
As pilots demanded more from their planes, ICP responded by introducing the Savannah VG in 2004. This model was revolutionary, replacing the leading edge slats with vortex generators. This small yet significant change reduced drag, allowing for improved cruise speeds without sacrificing the aircraft’s legendary low-speed handling.
For the first time, pilots had an aircraft that wasn’t just perfect for short takeoffs and landings—it was also capable of faster cross-country flights. With the Savannah VG, adventure had never been so comfortable.
Savannah XL: Comfort Meets Performance (2009)
In 2009, the Savannah family welcomed a new member: the Savannah XL. ICP knew that pilots wanted more than just performance—they wanted comfort too. The XL model delivered, boasting a wider cabin, enhanced glazing for visibility, and a redesigned cowling for better aerodynamics. It was the perfect blend of functionality and style, whether you were soaring over the African savannah or cruising to your favorite weekend destination.
The XL model quickly became a favorite for pilots looking for extra comfort during long flights while still maintaining the Savannah’s signature STOL performance.
Savannah S: Sleek and Refined (2010)
Building on the success of the XL, ICP rolled out the Savannah S in 2010. This model refined the design even further, introducing a more streamlined fuselage with rounded tail corners for better aerodynamics. It was faster, more efficient, and still packed all the rugged capabilities that pilots loved. The Savannah S became the go-to aircraft for those who needed reliable performance in tough conditions, with a touch of elegance in the air.
Savannah T: A Taildragger for the Adventurers (2013)
By 2013, ICP had something special up its sleeve. The Savannah T was introduced as a taildragger version of the Savannah, catering to those adventurous pilots who preferred the classic tailwheel configuration. This rugged design made it perfect for rough-field operations, while still offering all the comfort and performance improvements seen in earlier models. It was the ultimate tool for off-the-beaten-path exploration.
Looking Ahead: The Savannah SR (2024)
The Savannah’s journey doesn’t stop here. ICP is gearing up to launch the Savannah SR in 2024, and it promises to push the boundaries even further. While details are still being finalized, rumors suggest that the SR will include cutting-edge aerodynamic improvements, a more refined cabin, and potentially new engine options. If the past is any indicator, the SR is set to be another game-changer in light-sport aviation.
The Venture: Expanding Horizons
While the Savannah remains the star of the show, ICP didn’t stop there. They also developed the Venture, a sleek, low-wing aircraft designed for pilots who value speed and efficiency on longer flights. With modern avionics and a streamlined design, the Venture offers an exciting alternative for those looking for a faster, more aerodynamic aircraft. Whether you're flying for fun or covering long distances, the Venture complements the Savannah lineup perfectly, giving pilots a wider range of options.
A Legacy of Continuous Innovation
The ICP Savannah has come a long way since its early days. From the Classic to the SR, each model has brought with it new innovations and refinements. Whether you’re landing on a short airstrip in the wilderness or cruising comfortably on a cross-country journey, the Savannah has proven itself as a versatile and dependable aircraft for all types of pilots.
As agents for ICP in South Africa, we are proud to offer the Savannah S and Venture, two aircraft that embody the spirit of adventure, innovation, and excellence that ICP is known for. Stay tuned for more updates on the Savannah SR and be part of the next chapter in this incredible journey!
This is not just an aircraft—it’s a history of innovation in the sky, and we’re excited to share it with you. Ready to take flight?