In the U. S. , for example, the Federal Aviation Administration regulates aircraft. Be aware of any building rules. For instance, the FAA requires you to construct 51% of your plane yourself. Prove this by making a logbook containing photos and videos of your work. [2] X Research source

When choosing a workspace, consider how long the build will take you. With consistent work, the process can be as short as a few months, but it takes most builders years. Some kit companies allow you to build inside their facility. This can be a good option if you live nearby.

Wood and fabric combination frames are light but weak. Early planes used wood, and it is still a user-friendly option for custom planes. Most planes today are made out of aluminum, an inexpensive material that is more aerodynamic than wood. . Composite materials are stronger and more aerodynamic than aluminum but also more expensive.

Kits typically do not come with an engine, propeller, and flight control panel, so you will have to buy these separately. If you want to save money, you can search online for airplane plans. You can download available plans, buy plans from kit companies, or design your own. To design your own plans, use a program like Airplane PDQ to create the design, then a flight simulator like X-Plane to test it.

The skills and tools you need for this depend on your kit and the material you are working with. You do not need to have technical expertise to begin. You can learn or refine skills as you go through the building process. A few skills that may come in handy are riveting and welding.

You can order an engine from kit manufacturers and online auction sites. You may also be able to repurpose engines from old cars and junkyards. The engine can cost as much as your kit. Expect it to be ⅓ of your total costs, at least $2,000 USD. Installing the engine can be tricky. If you get stuck, look for online guides and videos.

If your kit does not come with a propeller, you can purchase 1 online from kit pr aviation manufacturers. If you are using a car engine, get a propeller speed reduction unit and attach it to the engine first. Otherwise, the propeller will spin too quickly for the plane to fly properly.

Order a flight panel online from an aviation company or an auction site. Expect to pay about $1,000 USD. Some modern avionics panels come with a control module. You plug the panel components into the module for easier installation.

Most home-built planes are designed for 1 or 2 people. You may not be allowed to carry more than 4 people at a time. Some helpful skills for this can include riveting and sewing.

Apply a primer first so the paint sticks to the aircraft better. After the paint dries, spray on a finishing material such as acetone to protect your craft. Be sure to work in a ventilated area. Wear a respirator and eye goggles.

You won’t be able to use your plane for this, since it has to pass inspections first. You will use an instructional plane at the school. The certification board gives you a medical exam, similar to going to a doctor for a check-up. They may also have you take a written test on flight rules. Use your pilot’s license to test out many different types of aircraft. This can help you figure out what kind of plane you want to build.

Contact airports in your region. The employees can direct you on where to bring your plane for registration.

Contact your local airport for information on renting hangar space. If you have a lot of property space or storage space like a large barn, you may keep the plane there.

Registration can take 1 to 2 months to complete, so be prepared for this. While you wait, consider practicing by flying other airplanes. Contact the EAA or other flying organizations for help with the paperwork.

If your government requires you to keep a logbook detailing the building process, bring it in during the inspection.

Once you pass the test, you can fly your plane according to the rules of the sky. You can fly cross-country and invite other people aboard.

EAA inspectors are fellow builders volunteering their time. The inspections are free. Find inspectors in your area at https://www. EAA. org/TechCounselors.

Organizations often hold workshops on building techniques, giving you a chance to experiment with wood and metal you might use on your plane. Visit these events and view organization websites online to gather more information. For example, go to https://www. eaa. org/en/eaa.

Try to ride in various plane types, such as wood, aluminum, and composite frames. Only licensed pilots with registered aircraft can take you on a flight.

For example, try Wings Forum or the EAA forums.