Building Your Own Small Plane: Legal Requirements and Steps

Building a small aircraft from scratch can be a rewarding endeavor, especially for enthusiasts with some mechanical skills. However, it's important to understand the legal and regulatory requirements that come with this process. This article will outline the necessary steps and considerations to legally fly your own small plane.

FAA Regulation Overview

When building a small plane, you must comply with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. The FAA has specific guidelines for homebuilt planes, including detailed processes for design, construction, and certification. Depending on the scale and complexity of your project, you may need to go through a series of inspections and approvals. For most custom-built aircraft, the process involves:

Design approval: The FAA must approve the design and construction methods. Assembly and inspection: A complete inspection of the plane after construction is necessary. Experimental category: If your aircraft is not a standard kit or is significantly unique, it may need to be registered as an 'X' experimental type. Pilot certification: You will need to have the necessary pilot's license to fly it.

Easiest Path: Get a Private Pilot License

The most straightforward way to fly a homebuilt plane legally is to first obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL). Although this can be costly, it's a significant but relatively minor expense compared to the cost of building the plane from scratch. Once you have your PPL, you can use the aircraft for personal flight purposes.

Where to Fly Your Plane

Choosing the location to fly your plane is crucial. In the United States, you can fly over your own property in Class G airspace without a certificate, which can be practical for homebuilt planes. However, if you plan to fly outside your property boundaries, you may need additional certifications and permits. It's essential to check the latest Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) and Advisory Circulars (AIM) for the most up-to-date information.

Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)

The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is a valuable resource for homebuilt aircraft enthusiasts. Founded in 1953, the EAA provides a wealth of information and support for the entire homebuilt aircraft process. They have an extensive website with resources, forums, and contacts to help you navigate the regulatory landscape and assist in the construction of your plane. You can visit their official website to get the detailed steps involved and who to contact for assistance.

Legal and Safety Considerations

In the United States, homebuilt aircraft must be registered as 'experimental aircraft.' This registration is necessary even if you have a license suitable for your aircraft. The FAA requires that you follow all safety guidelines and adhere to the design and construction requirements. Additionally, you need to be a licensed pilot to fly the plane legally.

Building in the UK

In the United Kingdom, the process of building a homebuilt plane involves significant mathematical proof of design safety. Throughout the construction process, all materials and workmanship must be inspected at every stage. This inspection process can be very expensive, often costing more than the aircraft itself. The government department responsible will guide you through the process, and if you are serious about your project, they will assist you in every way possible.

For further assistance and detailed information, you can visit the EAA website at

Remember, the regulatory requirements are in place to ensure safety for both the pilot and others in the sky and on the ground. While the process can be complex, it's designed to protect all parties involved.

Key Takeaways

Comply with FAA regulations for homebuilt aircraft. Obtain a Private Pilot License for legal flight. Check your local airspace regulations (e.g., Class G airspace). Register your aircraft as 'experimental' with the FAA. Seek guidance from the EAA for detailed assistance.

Contributors

William Jukich, United States Marine Corps Retired, Harrier Attack Pilot from Northwest Indiana, adds, 'Semper Fi.'