Found FBA-2C2 (Bush Hawk 300XP) Aircraft Parts, Equipment, and Tooling List

The Found FBA-2C2, also known as the Bush Hawk 300XP, is unique among utility aircraft for its exceptional short takeoff and landing (STOL) performance, rugged build, and versatile mission capabilities. Designed and manufactured in Canada, it was engineered to thrive in harsh and remote environments. Its all-metal airframe, large cargo doors, and powerful 300-horsepower engine make it ideal for bush flying, cargo hauling, and charter operations. The FBA-2C2 combines the proven durability of earlier Found models with improved performance and modern avionics. This blend of strength, simplicity, and capability makes it one of the most reliable and adaptable bush planes in its class.

The Found Bush Hawk 300XP includes several safety features designed to ensure dependable performance in challenging flight conditions. Its robust airframe is constructed to withstand rough landings and heavy use on unpaved strips. The aircraft’s high-wing configuration enhances visibility and reduces the risk of ground strikes. Dual flight controls, stable low-speed handling, and an effective stall recovery design contribute to overall flight safety. Many models are equipped with modern avionics, GPS navigation, and redundant systems to improve situational awareness and pilot confidence.

The Found FBA-2C2 offers excellent performance compared to other single-engine utility aircraft, particularly in STOL and payload capacity. It can take off and land in under 1,000 feet, even when fully loaded, making it ideal for remote airstrips. Its 300-horsepower engine provides powerful climb performance and steady cruise efficiency. The FBA-2C2’s balance of strength, endurance, and maneuverability makes it a top choice for operators in rugged environments.

The Found Bush Hawk 300XP is not typically considered suitable for beginner pilots due to its high-performance characteristics and operational complexity. It is designed for experienced aviators accustomed to bush flying and utility missions. However, with proper training and experience, pilots find the aircraft’s handling to be stable, predictable, and forgiving. Its strong control response and excellent visibility make it enjoyable and manageable for skilled operators. Overall, the Bush Hawk 300XP is best suited for professional or advanced private pilots.

The Found FBA-2C2 follows a regular maintenance schedule consistent with general aviation standards. Routine inspections are typically performed every 50 to 100 flight hours, with more comprehensive annual inspections to ensure airworthiness. Maintenance focuses on ensuring airframe integrity, engine performance, control systems, and preventing corrosion. The aircraft’s simple design and robust construction make it easy to service in the field, even in remote areas. The Lycoming engine’s reliability and availability of parts help keep maintenance costs manageable for operators.

The Found Bush Hawk 300XP is highly customizable, allowing operators to adapt it for a wide range of missions. The plane can be configured with wheels, skis, or floats, providing flexibility for use on land, snow, or water. The interior can be arranged for passenger seating, cargo hauling, or a combination of both, with quick-change modular seating. Optional avionics upgrades include modern glass cockpit displays, autopilot systems, and advanced GPS navigation. This adaptability makes the Bush Hawk 300XP a versatile aircraft for both commercial and private applications.

The Found FBA-2C2 performs exceptionally well in a variety of weather conditions, from high-altitude, hot operations to cold, snowy environments. Its high-wing design provides stability in turbulence and crosswinds, while the powerful engine ensures reliable performance during takeoff and climb. The aircraft’s rugged landing gear and control responsiveness enhance safety in challenging conditions. When equipped with appropriate deicing or preheating systems, it can operate safely in cold-weather regions. Pilots value its predictable handling and strong control authority in changing weather.

The Found Bush Hawk 300XP has a typical range of approximately 700 to 800 nautical miles (1,296 to 1,482 km), depending on payload and fuel configuration. This makes it ideal for long-distance operations between remote destinations without frequent refueling. Its efficient Lycoming engine ensures excellent endurance and fuel economy for its class. Operators appreciate its balance of range and payload, which enables flexible mission planning. This capability makes the Bush Hawk 300XP a reliable workhorse for regional and wilderness operations.

The Found FBA-2C2 can carry up to five people, including the pilot, depending on configuration and load requirements. The cabin is spacious, with large doors and a flat floor that make entry, exit, and cargo handling easy. Seating can be removed or rearranged to maximize space for freight or specialized equipment. Its ergonomic layout ensures comfort for both passengers and crew on long flights. This combination of flexibility and comfort makes the FBA-2C2 suitable for both personal and commercial missions.

The Found Bush Hawk 300XP is powered by a Lycoming IO-540-L1C5 engine, producing 300 horsepower. This six-cylinder, fuel-injected engine is known for its reliability, smooth operation, and strong performance in demanding environments. It delivers excellent takeoff power and efficient cruise performance, ideal for short-field and high-altitude operations. The engine’s proven design and widespread support make maintenance straightforward and cost-effective. Combined with a constant-speed propeller, it provides the performance and dependability expected in a bush aircraft.

The Found FBA-2C2 offers a useful load of approximately 1,500 lbs (680 kg), depending on configuration and installed equipment. This allows for flexible combinations of passengers, cargo, and fuel without sacrificing performance. The aircraft’s robust structure and balanced design make it easy to manage different loading scenarios. Operators appreciate its ability to handle heavy payloads while maintaining stable flight characteristics. This high useful load is one of the reasons the Bush Hawk 300XP is favored in utility and bush operations.

The Found FBA-2C2 (Bush Hawk 300XP) represents an upgraded version of the earlier FBA-2C1 (Bush Hawk 300), featuring refinements in structure, performance, and avionics. The 300XP variant includes aerodynamic improvements, weight optimization, and optional advanced cockpit instrumentation. Some models were further modified for specialized roles, such as surveillance, aerial photography, and cargo operations. Later aircraft inspired the design of the Expedition E350, which offered increased comfort and performance. Each model maintains the same durable airframe foundation while catering to different operational needs.

The Found FBA-2C2 cruises at approximately 135 to 140 knots (155 to 161 mph, or 249 to 259 km/h), depending on altitude, weight, and power settings. This speed offers a good balance between efficiency and performance for regional and bush operations. The aircraft’s aerodynamic design and powerful engine ensure steady, fuel-efficient cruising, even under heavy loads. Its stable handling at cruise altitude enhances passenger comfort and flight predictability. For a utility aircraft, the FBA-2C2 delivers excellent speed without compromising safety or versatility.

Yes, the Found Bush Hawk 300XP is specifically designed for operations from short and unpaved runways. Its reinforced landing gear, large tires, and excellent propeller clearance allow it to handle gravel, grass, and dirt strips with ease. The aircraft’s STOL performance enables takeoffs and landings in less than 1,000 feet (305 meters), even when carrying a full load. This makes it ideal for operations in remote or undeveloped regions. Whether on wheels, skis, or floats, the Bush Hawk 300XP performs reliably in rugged terrain.

The Found FBA-2C2 offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, especially for a utility aircraft. Its large doors and flat-floor design make it easy to load passengers and gear, while the high ceiling provides ample headroom. The wide cabin allows for flexible seating arrangements and improved passenger comfort on long flights. Large windows provide excellent outside visibility and natural light. For its class, the FBA-2C2 delivers an impressive balance between rugged utility and in-flight comfort.

The Found Bush Hawk 300XP is available with a range of avionics configurations, from traditional analog gauges to advanced glass cockpit systems. Many aircraft are equipped with GPS navigation, digital engine monitoring, and weather radar for enhanced situational awareness. Operators can also add modern upgrades such as autopilot, terrain awareness, and ADS-B compliance systems. The cockpit layout is designed for clarity and ease of use, minimizing pilot workload during demanding missions. These avionics options make the Bush Hawk 300XP adaptable to both VFR and IFR operations.

The Found FBA-2C2 offers impressive luggage and cargo capacity for its size, with room for up to 900 lbs (408 kg) of baggage depending on passenger load. The large rear doors and flat-floor layout make it easy to load bulky items, tools, or supplies. Cargo tie-down points ensure secure storage during flight, even in turbulent conditions. The aircraft’s generous baggage space supports missions ranging from passenger transport to field logistics. This exceptional cargo capability makes the FBA-2C2 a true workhorse for utility and adventure flying.