The intention was to offer the aircraft as a factory-complete Special LSA and as a kit-built Experimental LSA or amateur-built..[2][3][4][5][6] Unlike most other Rans models, which feature a welded 4130 steel tube cockpit with a bolted aluminum tube rear fuselage, the S-19 is an aluminum semi-monocoque design, with stressed skin construction supported with bulkheads, formers and stringers.

[2][3][4][6] The S-19 has tricycle landing gear with a fully castering nosewheel and steering via differential main wheel braking.

But after confusion and inquiries by air traffic control during early flights, Schlitter decided a name was needed, saying, "It is a bit of poetic license, but with 19 designs it has become a challenge to create names that are original, we like the sound of Venterra over the radio, it is easy to say, and should satisfy ATC.

[8][9][10] On 25 June 2017 a Rans S-19 crashed near Hyde, Central Otago, New Zealand, resulting in one death and one serious injury.

The investigation led to the issuance of a Continuing Airworthiness Notice about deficiencies in the stick grip design and associated hazards.