Question
: If I would build an airplane, what are some of the most important things I’ll need? Ben
Answer : Hello Ben,
The first thing you'd need is a plan. You should decide what you want your airplane to do. Do you want one for local flights during the day? Or maybe an airplane for aerobatics? Do you want a plane for cross-country flights at night or in bad weather?
Once you know what kind of airplane you want to build, then you need to decide what materials your plane will be made of. Some people want all metal. Some build fiberglass planes. Some build them from a frame of wood or steel, with cloth stretched over the frame.
Then you'd need to decide if time or money is more important. You can build a plane from plans only. This is the cheapest method, but it takes a lot more time, patience, dedication, tools and skill. You buy the plans, and then you find, obtain, and build every piece of the plane. Most people buy a kit. This saves time, but costs more. Some manufacturers also make a "Quick Build" kit that costs even more money, but it's more completely assembled, and takes less time to finish.
You'd also need to make sure you make a mental commitment to the task of building a plane. It's easy to get tired of building after awhile, so it's important to plan to follow through.
Then you need acquire the tools necessary to assemble the type of plane you've chosen. I believe the all-metal planes require the most tools, around $1,000-$2,000. Some tools will be needed before starting, while others can be bought as you go along.
Then you buy the kit or plans of your choice and get started!
I know the answers seems complicated, but lots of EAA members have built their own airplane and most are ready to help someone like you get off to a good start!
If you're interested in seeing the details of building a plane, visit my web site: http://www.meyette.us/RV-7Ahome.htm There are also links there to many other builders' web sites.
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