Overview

Featuring new and classic kitplane designs, this proven bestseller is the most current and comprehensive resource available on choosing, building, and flying homebuilt planes. Covering tubing and fabric, wood, traditional sheet metal, and the latest composites, Kit Airplane Construction uses step-by-step instructions and detailed case studies of kitplane models to give amateur plane builders the knowledge needed to create and fly their own aircraft.

Table of contents

Introduction
Beginning
Selection
Decisions
Preparations
Basics
Composite Construction
Metal Monocoque Construction
Steel Tube and Aluminum Tube Construction
Wood and Fabric
Completion
Get 'Em Flying

Biographical note

Ronald J. Wanttaja is an award-winning aviation writer and a systems engineer with Boeing, working in satellite orbit/constellation design and analysis, launch vehicle and onboard propulsion system trades, and operations concepts for space systems. He worked on the early design studies for the International Space Station. An Air Force veteran, he was an on-duty operator for the Defense Support Program missile early-warning satellite. As a freelance aviation journalist, he has written for Private Pilot, Flying, Sport Aviation, Flight Line, Kitplanes, and other publications. He is author of the book Airplane Ownership, also from McGraw-Hill. His aviation writing has won several prizes, including the EAA "Bax Seat Trophy" and a journalism award from the Aviation/Space Writer's Association. Mr. Wanttaja has also written and published historical fiction.

Back cover copy

THE Guide for Kitplane Builders

Featuring new and classic kitplane designs, this bestseller shows you how to choose, build, and fly a homebuilt plane. Kitplanes magazine calls this book "required reading for anyone thinking about building an airplane."

More than a how-to, Kit Airplane Construction is also a why-to. In this unbiased look at every aspect of the kitplane process, award-winning aviation writer Ron Wanttaja covers everything from cost comparisons with certified used aircraft to drilling all those holes for the rivets.

Expert, easy-to-understand instructions help you construct your chosen kitplane type: tubing and fabric, wood, traditional sheet metal, or leading-edge composites. Case studies confer the benefit of others' experiences in purchasing and building a variety of kitplanes. You'll find state-of-the-art kitplane designs; high-quality illustrations; current prices and costs associated with shipping kits; expanded information on financing options; highlights of the auto-engine debate; and quality control features to add confidence to workmanship.

THERE'S A LOT NEW IN KITPLANE CONSTRUCTION, Third Edition!
Costs and Materials Guides
Details on Avionics
Occupant Comfort Section
"Experimental Light Sports" Category
Safety Regulations
New photographs