Small and fun to fly. Cult. Caproni Vizzola C22J Ventura
Posted: Wed Aug 20, 2025 7:45 pmI had the pleasure of flying one of the last aircraft from the famous Italian manufacturer Caproni before it disappeared into history. The Ventura is a tiny, super-light jet trainer, cleverly based on the "Calif" glider. Landing is a bit unconventional: no flaps, just spoilers like a glider, so you really have to feel your approach.
Sitting in the cockpit feels like hopping into a lowered little English sports car – compact, low, and surprisingly sporty. The instruments are simple, there’s no autopilot, but that’s part of the fun. Within its structural limits, it’s even aerobatic-capable. With an empty weight of 720 kg and a max take-off of 1,135 kg, it’s incredibly nimble.
Sadly, only three prototypes were ever built – Siai-Marchetti dropped it for the SF 260. But what a joy it is to fly!
On this trip, I soared over Sicily: from Sigonella to the ruins of ancient Syracuse, then onward to Comiso. The Ventura is small, light, and playful – an absolute cult classic. Every turn and glide feels direct and alive, a real treat for anyone who loves to fly.
Sitting in the cockpit feels like hopping into a lowered little English sports car – compact, low, and surprisingly sporty. The instruments are simple, there’s no autopilot, but that’s part of the fun. Within its structural limits, it’s even aerobatic-capable. With an empty weight of 720 kg and a max take-off of 1,135 kg, it’s incredibly nimble.
Sadly, only three prototypes were ever built – Siai-Marchetti dropped it for the SF 260. But what a joy it is to fly!
On this trip, I soared over Sicily: from Sigonella to the ruins of ancient Syracuse, then onward to Comiso. The Ventura is small, light, and playful – an absolute cult classic. Every turn and glide feels direct and alive, a real treat for anyone who loves to fly.