How much does it cost to build?

Answer: The prototype was built for under $3,000, not including the motor. This airplane is great for building on a budget, as you can build 'sub components' as money allows. You complete one assembly at a time, and pretty soon you have an entire airplane. People don't build airplanes all at once, you start with one single little part, and so on, until you have a completed airplane.

Where do I get my materials from?

Answer: There are aircraft supply houses all over the country, and most people just order from there. We use aircraft hardware only. However, there are many parts you can obtain locally, that do not have to be aircraft grade, such as the seat, tires, windscreen and so on. These days it's much easier to get materials delivered to your door than in the past.

What kind of tools are required to build the Affordaplane?

Answer: Here is what is used: A table top drill press. Metal cutting band saw, (you can also use a hacksaw). Various hand files. A Dremel belt sander. Hand Drill. Pop rivet gun. You will need a table to build things on. One inch tubing bender 8" radius. Jigsaw. Pinking shears. Scissors. Paint brush. Screwdriver (phillips). Sandpaper. Bench vice. You get the idea. Simple hand tools are all thats needed.

Is there any welding required, or metal bending tools required like a metal bending brake?

Answer: There is no welding required at all . There are no bends required in any of the fittings on the airframe. The entire aircraft is made with square tubing, round tubing, angle, and flat plates. It's actually one of the simplest aircraft to build that is available today.

What skills are required to build the Affordaplane?

Answer: Careful attention to details, the ability to follow step by step instructions, and the ability to file metal parts and drill holes are required. Many of our customers are beginners, having never been around aircraft before. The plans are designed so that every step is detailed. She is simple to build!

How long does it take to build?

Answer: We say 250 hours, but it varies with experience. Many people have built their fuselages in one single weekend! The idea here is not to rush it, it's supposed to be fun! Enjoy the process. Watching the airplane come together with your own hands is something that can't be described. You will want to take lots of pictures. Most people can complete their airplanes in less than six months, if you are dedicated. It really depends on how much time you can dedicate to it.

What kind of covering is used on the Affordaplane?

Answer:We recommend the Jerry Bunner method of covering. This system uses 1.7 ounce dacron, heat shrunk, and uses 3 coats of latex house paint diluted with 30% Floetrol to fill the weave. Then you apply two coats of gloss enamel house paint over that. The paint is applied using a foam roller from Wal Mart. The UV protection comes from a one gallon can of Son-Of-A-Gun. It works great and is very inexpensive.

Can you cover the rear of the fuselage with fabric?

Answer: The short answer is no. Covering the rear fuselage adds weight, and during maneuvers such as a slip to landing, imposes stresses on the frame it was not designed for.

What is the airfoil used on the Affordaplane?

Answer: It is based on the famous Clark Y, we call it the Clark Y-not. This airfoil has great lifting capability, and a gentle stall. It was chosen because it has no 'bad habits' in the air, and gives us the numbers we want to make it legal for ultralight speeds.

Has anyone tried the 1/2 vw's that are popular now?

Answer: We haven't received word of any. The only difficulty is keeping the weight under 254 lbs with this configuration. The airframe is easily customizable to suit whatever motor you happen to have, as long as it's at least 40 hp.

What is the resale value of an Affordaplane?

Answer: We have had offers for the prototype, upwards of $6,000. But we really don't know, because of all the ones that have been built and flown, their owners don't want to let go of them! That's why you don't see many A-Planes for sale in the public marketplace. Many of our customers decide to build another one, so they can fly with their friends and family! Many EAA chapters build two at once.

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