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, while a fast-growing segment, historically experienced disproportionately high accident rates, particularly fatal ones, attributed mainly to loss of control and powerplant failures.
• Following a 2012 NTSB study that identified these safety concerns, collaborative efforts by organizations like the EAA, FAA, and NTSB have led to a significant reduction in E/AB accident and fatal accident rates.
• Continued safety for E/AB aircraft relies heavily on rigorous pre-flight testing, comprehensive type-specific transition training for both builders and new owners, and careful adherence to safety protocols unique to their experimental nature.

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