The Realities of Building Your Own Airplane: Can an Amateur Succeed?

Many people dream of building their own airplane, often envisioning it as a fun and challenging hobby. While it is technically possible for an amateur to build a small airplane in their garage, several factors make it a far more complex and risky endeavor than one might initially imagine. Without thorough research and prior experience, success is unlikely. As the famous adage goes, 'You won’t live long enough to learn by mistakes.'

Breaking Down the Challenges

Despite the allure, building your own aircraft requires extensive knowledge and expertise. There are numerous kits available that you can purchase; however, without experience, the expectation is that you will end up seriously injuring or even killing yourself during your first attempt to fly the plane. Many articles and resources, such as the well-known ‘Kitplanes’ magazine and membership with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), can provide guidance and information that can make the process safer and more effective.

Orchestrating Your Journey to Flying

Start by subscribing to ‘Kitplanes’ magazine and joining the EAA. These resources can provide you with comprehensive information about the various kits, engines, and plans available. The EAA also hosts an annual Airventure fair in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, which is a treasure trove of information with thousands of planes on display, both homebuilt and certified. Military aircraft are also a notable presence at these events, offering a unique glimpse into the world of aviation.

Another valuable resource is the annual issue of ‘Kitplanes’ that lists all available kitplanes and plans, as well as aircraft engines manufactured for these plans. Some scratch-built planes can look quite boxy or even ugly, while others are strikingly beautiful, such as the KR2 airplane, which can use a Volkswagen or Corvair engine, with companies modifying the car engines for aircraft use. The Falco F8L, an Italian design, and the GP4, designed by George Perreira, stand out as examples of beautiful and efficient aircraft, the latter even featuring amphibious capabilities.

Steps and Resources for Success

Many builders also maintain blogs or online logs detailing their progress. This is particularly helpful in obtaining real and accurate cost and time estimates. For example, building a Lancair ES plane may take thousands of hours, but the process, although time-consuming, can be extremely enjoyable. Excellent airplanes can be built from a variety of materials, including wood, aluminum, fiberglass, or carbon fiber. Your comfort level with these materials should be a key consideration in your decision-making process.

Contacting the EAA for Guidance

To further assist you, you might consider contacting the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). Local chapters can provide valuable assistance at every stage of the build, from initial start to final inspections and signing off on the 'Airworthiness certificate' required for legal flight in the United States. The availability of experienced individuals can significantly enhance your chances of successfully completing the project.

Choosing the right plane for you will depend on your 'mission.' Are you interested in aerobatics, high-speed flights, or simply basic enjoyment? Popular options include aerobatic stunt planes, long-distance aircraft capable of 200 mph without refueling, and inexpensive fun-to-fly planes for short local flights. Whether you want to perform looping, hammerhead stalls, Cuban 8s, or simply plan a mid-country flight with your family, the possibilities are numerous and exciting.

In the realm of building your own airplane, the key is to understand that it is a grand endeavor that requires serious commitment and dedication. With the right resources and guidance, it is possible for an amateur to achieve success, but it requires thorough research, patience, and, most importantly, safety.