Rutan Long E Z, Mojave, California. The Rutan Model 61 Long-EZ is a homebuilt aircraft with a canard layout designed by Burt Rutan's Rutan Aircraft Factory. It is derived from the VariEze, which was first offered to home-built aircraft enthusiasts in 1976. The prototype N79RA) of the Long-EZ first flew on 12 June 1979.