E/AB Aircraft Safety

The Experimental/Amateur-Built aircraft category has been the fastest-growing segment of general aviation for some years. The term amateur-built suggests the aircraft was assembled by an individual instead of a factory. In fact, the FARs state that an amateur-built aircraft is one that the major portion of which has been fabricated and assembled by persons who undertook the construction project solely for their own education or recreation. The FAA requires that an amateur-built aircraft must be assembled or constructed at least 51 percent by an amateur, not including the engine(s), propeller(s) or accessories. Meanwhile, the term experimental encompasses much more than just amateur-built aircraft. Examples include those used for research and development, air racing, exhibition, etc.

Key Takeaways:

• Experimental/Amateur-Built (E/AB) aircraft historically had a disproportionately high accident rate, particularly fatal accidents, primarily due to powerplant failures (often fuel-related) and loss of control, especially during initial flight testing and with new owners.
• Following a 2012 NTSB safety study highlighting these concerns, collaborative efforts by organizations like the EAA, FAA, and NTSB have led to a significant reduction in E/AB accident rates.
• Improved safety in E/AB aircraft is largely attributed to enhanced transition training programs, mentoring initiatives, better-defined flight testing protocols, and thorough pre-flight checks, all critical for builders and pilots.

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