Oshkosh, Wisconsin-based kit manufacturer Sonex has taken an NTSB recommendation to heart by developing a transition training program for pilots who are building Sonex kits or purchasing airplanes completed by someone else. The NTSB released results last year of a study showing that type-specific training in amateur-built aircraft could improve safety in that segment.
Sonex CEO Jeremy Monnett said, “Preparing to fly your Sonex with the proper training and type-specific flight time is just as important as building the airplane properly.” The FAA approved Sonex’s training program in a process that took about three weeks, according to Sonex chief flight instructor Joe Norris. The training is administered at the Sonex factory on Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.
Sonex is also establishing a type club dedicated to its designs, so builders and pilots can benefit from the experience of others. Sonex sells kits for its Sonex, Waiex, Xenos and Onex models.
