How to Build Your Own Aircraft

"There is no sport equal to that which aviators enjoy while being carried through the air on great white wings" - Wilbur Wright

How many of us have created havoc in our living rooms as kids, playing and running around with paper planes, cardboard planes, toy planes, prototype models and even imaginary futuristic spaceships? Aha, the smile on your face is a good enough answer to that question. Flying an airplane, becoming a pilot, soaring up high in the sky, feeling the clouds kiss your face as you zoom across the horizon... childhood dreams really do have a beautiful innocence about them. Sadly, as time passes, and one goes about the rigors of life, most of them remain just that - dreams.

However, life does, at times, offer you a second chance, and this is one of them. So all you flying enthusiasts out there, buckle up as we embark on a mission to discover how you can build an airplane of your own, and a real one at that!

How to Build Your Own Aircraft

Procedure:

1. First and foremost, you should decide the type of airplane that you wish to build - whether a hang glider, or an ultra-light engine-fitted airplane, a single-seater, twin-seater, etc. Building and operating costs vary from model to model, so research well, check your finances, and then take your decision.
2. Once you decide upon your aircraft model, you need to get in touch with all the involved aviation authorities to get their approval. You should bear in mind that you are building a REAL aircraft, and not a radio-controlled prototype, therefore, you are automatically responsible for abiding by all the necessary federal aviation laws and regulations. For this purpose, it is necessary that you meet the concerned officials, explain to them your intended use of the aircraft and get the necessary permits and licenses.
3. Purchase the right material for your aircraft. There are quite a few airplane building kits which have been specially designed for home-builders. These are available at specialty stores and cost anywhere between $8,000 and $40,000, depending on the complexity. If you happen to be a first timer, it is always recommended that you follow an existing aircraft model rather than risk building a new design of your own.
4. Select a fixed, spacious working space for building your aircraft. Remember, it is an airplane that you will be building, not a bicycle, so select the working area accordingly.
5. If your airplane design includes specialty accessories, propellers, etc., purchase them well in advance.
6. Don't be in a hurry to build the airplane. Take it nice and slow and follow the assembly instruction manual to the tee. Being enthusiastic is natural, but overdoing it may lead to a construction blunder. The slightest of errors can potentially endanger your safety, and in a worst case scenario, may even lead to a flying mishap.
7. If you are working as a team, double-check each other's work at the end of the day. This often helps in spotting your own errors which would otherwise have remained unchecked.
8. Once you are done with the building process, locate a certified pilot, aeronautical engineer or an experienced aircraft technician in your locality and have him inspect the construction in detail. Once you have his approval, only then should you proceed with testing or flying the aircraft.
9. Last but not least, insure your aircraft and maintain it well.

Building your own aircraft and re-living your childhood dream will surely give you an unmatched thrill. Just make sure that you follow all the safety regulations. Bon voyage!