If you are considering a kitplane project, but aren't sure which one, or what to expect from each, this book will either set you on the right path, or save you from a disappointing and expensive mistake. It is an unbiased look at every aspect of the kitplane process from cost comparisons with certified used aircraft to drilling all those holes for rivets.

Kit Airplane Construction takes a detailed look at what kitplane building is all about. Ron Wanttaja starts with the selection of a design based on the practical measures of "the intended mission", the actual costs involved, time to build and assessing the various manufacturers. Then it's on to the decisions involved with engine, instrument and avionics selection. Next, to setting up a shop and a description of the types of tools typically used. Each type of construction is evaluated (metal, composite, wood, welded frame) to describe the basics of that type of work, what to expect as the builder and a case study of a specific project of that class. Finally, the finishing touches common to all projects, the legalities and the early test flights.

If you are considering a kitplane project, but aren't sure which one, or what to expect from each, this book will either set you on the right path, or save you from a disappointing and expensive mistake.

Topics Include:

• FUNDAMENTALS: Common Questions, Why Build, Drawbacks, The Kit Building Process, Case Study; The LongEze
• ALTERNATIVES: Production Aircraft, Used Homebuilts, Partially Completed Homebuilts, Light Sport Aircraft, Ultralights
• SELECTION: The Mission, Performance, Features, Cost, Time, The Manufacturer
• DECISIONS: Financing, Engine Selection, Certified Used Engines, Uncertified Engines, Propeller Selection, Instruments, Avionics
• PREPARATIONS: Workshop Requirements, Tools, Other shop Items, Ready to Build, Shipping
• BASICS: The Nuts and Bolts, Basic Metal Work, Cables and Accessories
• COMPOSITE CONSTRUCTION: Additional Tools, Layup Operations, Finishing, Quality Control; The Berkut
• METAL MONOCOQUE CONSTRUCTION: Metalworking, Riveting, Priming, Quality Control; The Murphy Rebel
• STEEL AND ALUMINUM TUBE CONSTRUCTION: Welded Structures, AL Tube Structures, Quality Control; The Avid Magnum
• WOOD AND FABRIC: Materials, Cutting, Gluing, Fabric Covering, Quality Control; The Falco
• COMPLETION: Painting, Rigging, CG, Legalities, FAA Inspection, Engine Start, Ground Testing, Flight Testing