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Building a Kit Plane; Good or Bad Idea?Hints and Tips Before Deciding to Make One's Own Aircraft.
It is quite possible for almost anyone to build their own airplane...or aeroplane! But it is a complicated project, so should a beginner even consider it?
Many people consider building their own aircraft, and such a task is quite possible for almost anyone. But there are several points to be considered first before undertaking such a large and complicated DIY project. Familiarity with Basic Tools etcAlthough most kit-build aircraft do not require special skills, the prospective builder needs to consider if he or she actually enjoys working with tools for extended periods. Is he comfortable with DIY projects generally, and with following blueprints and basic instructions? Does he have the time and space to build an aircraft? Does he enjoy learning and developing new skills, as there are likely to be some things which he has not done before? Although many modern aircraft kits are designed for relative beginners at building, sometimes with part of the work having been done in the factory, there are still many complex processes to be worked through, and a high degree of skill and precision will be required at all stages of the project. Time and SpaceThe average kit-built aircraft takes at least 500 hours to build, and often more if the builder is inexperienced. Somewhere to build it will be required, possibly a garage, or even somewhere larger. Is the builder’s family going to be supportive, if there is no space in the garage for the car, and the builder is spending all his spare time working on the new project…for months and possibly years? Does the Prospective Builder Fly Already?Some people want to build an aircraft before they have even learned to fly. This is fine, but it will make it more difficult for the person concerned to know what type of aeroplane to build. Different aircraft have different capabilities and advantages, and it is only when when a person becomes a pilot that he finds out what he most enjoys doing – touring, aerobatics, short strip flying etc. Anyone considering building an aircraft would be advised to at least have a few lessons before they start on the building project. Can a Pilot and Builder keep Current?Probably the majority of kit-built aircraft are made by people who already know how to fly. But building will now be taking up a major part of the pilot’s spare time. It is important for the builder to keep current with his flying, despite having to spend so much time building the new aircraft. But most importantly, no-one should even start making a plane unless they like working with their hands on complicated projects at least as much as they enjoy flying! Every year there are ads in flying magazines for partly built aircraft, usually for sale by pilots who realised they would rather fly than build...and they didn't have time to do both. Kit-Build Aircraft OrganisationsBefore making a definite decision, it is a good idea to find out as much as possible about building aircraft. Most pilots who have built their own plane will be very willing to help a beginner. And there are organisations specifically for the amateur aircraft builder – it’s worth joining the Light Aircraft Association (formerly called the Popular Flying Association) in the UK, or the Experimental Aircraft Association in the USA, or a similar organisation in any other country. And now…the builder is ready to start…or maybe not, if he prefers to spend his time in the sky rather than the workshop. Further Reading The Rotorway Exec 162F Kit Helicopter
The copyright of the article Building a Kit Plane; Good or Bad Idea? in Aviation is owned by Helen Krasner. Permission to republish Building a Kit Plane; Good or Bad Idea? in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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