About Experimental & Homebuilt Aircraft
The experimental and homebuilt aircraft market is populated by airplanes created and/or built by a private builder, either from scratch or using plans or kits, rather than by certified mechanics in a factory. The FAA certifies such aircraft as “Experimental,” signifying they’re suitable for recreational but not commercial use. Some kit providers provide opportunities for their customers to construct portions of their kits in the factory with supervision. Lancair, for example, offers a Builder Assist Program purported to reduce build time by up to a year. Van’s Aircraft, another kit provider, estimates it can take 1,200 to 1,400 hours over several years to complete a standard kit.
Lancair Mako Composite Kit Plane
Key Characteristics
From one-of-a-kind designs and custom-built replicas to kits that follow builder plans, experimental and homebuilt aircraft must earn special airworthiness certificates from the FAA. Kits typically include the majority of an aircraft’s structural components, and builders have the freedom to customize the airframe with the latest technology or to preferred specs for the engine, propeller, and avionics. Experimental and homebuilt aircraft tend to be less expensive than an equivalent certified aircraft, as the operator isn’t paying for the extensive and laborious certification process that aircraft built in a factory must undergo.
Aviation As Sport
The Experimental designation has been around for more than five decades, and the FAA has created strict aircraft definitions for non-commercial and recreational purposes. If an individual builds at least 51% of an aircraft, they are able to register the aircraft in the E-AB (experimental amateur-built) category. The EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) estimates that more than 33,000 amateur-built and homebuilt aircraft are licensed. Local EAA chapter groups allow aviation enthusiasts to share their interest with others, while also learning about aircraft building and restoration and participating in fly-ins.
Buying A Used Homebuilt Aircraft
When purchasing a used experimental or homebuilt aircraft, you’ll find a wide selection of types and designs. You might also find aircraft in various states of completion. For example, sellers may list barebones airframes that will require you to add the engine and avionics, or you might need to paint the airplane. These aircraft give you more freedom to customize the aircraft as you see fit. Other models come complete with all the certifications and equipment you’ll need to fly the aircraft right away. If buying a kit, the FAA requires an official Bill of Sale from the kit manufacturer before they will issue an Airworthiness Certificate, so you’ll need to receive the kit from the private party.
Find The Right Experimental & Homebuilt Aircraft
You’ll find a host of new and used experimental and homebuilt aircraft for sale every day on Controller.com, including models from such leading brands as Glasair, Lancair, and Van’s Aircraft.
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