Register

So You Want to Build an Airplane

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Homebuilt experimental aircraft offer a cost-effective alternative to expensive factory-built planes, providing access to customized performance and pricing for pilots.
  • Successful completion of a homebuilt project requires realistic planning focused on the aircraft's mission, a significant and consistent time commitment (typically 2-4 years, 15-20 hours/week), financial discipline, and a resilient, self-reliant personality.
  • While challenging, the necessary skills are learnable, and modern kits significantly simplify construction, making the project achievable for many with adequate personal, family, and community support, adhering to the FAA's "51 percent rule."
See a mistake? Contact us.

A homebuilt airplane can be built, as the name suggests, in the comfort of your own garage. (Photo courtesy of Justin Twilbeck)|

As we all know, the cost of flying has increased tremendously over the past few decades, and today a factory new airplane is too expensive an option for many would-be airplane owners. While they are always an option, used factory-built airplanes have a number of built-in costs associated with them. Not to mention the fact that no matter how thorough the pre-buy inspection is, the new owner is inevitably inheriting somebody else’s problems.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE