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E28POWERM20

Well-Known Member
Joined
Sep 1, 2016
Messages
103
Location
Hillsboro, OR
Hi all,

For several years now, I've wanted to build an airplane, which one is the million dollar question.
I have "chosen" a design several times already, but I'm not in a position to start buying until next year. The problem I have is that I don't have a mission. The type of flying I plan on doing can be accomplished by a lot of different designs, mainly local, with the occasional 3-400nm trip.

I am:
5'10", 175lbs, early 30's. Currently working on getting my PPL.
Wife is short, and losing quite a bit of weight(on purpose)
Son is almost 4 years old.

Want's/needs:
2+ seats, side by side preferred
Proven design, good safety record.
Relatively short build, under 2000 hours(no Rutan designs)
All aluminum preferred, but rag and tube ok for the right design.
Respectable speed, cruise over 120mph, but the higher the better.
Good stall characteristics and speed, no 70mph stall please.
Reasonably comfortable, side by side, 40" min.
Good range, 500nm or better.
Good visability
Light aerobatic ability
Reasonably equipped for $35-40k.
I'm ok with non-certified engines.

I live in the PNW, field elevation is 171ft, 2500ft paved.


I had settled on a Kitfox/Avid(still in the running) see this thread:
https://www.homebuiltairplanes.com/forums/showthread.php?t=28318

But I'm still unsure.

I originally liked the Sonex, based on simple design, fun to fly, economical to build and fly. I don't mind the looks, but it's not sexy either. The drawbacks were useful load, and baggage space. The B model seems like a nice kit too, but to new to see any completed, unless I go to Oshkosh.

I live 45 min from Vans, and really like the RV-7, it checks all the boxes, but typically cost $60k+ on the low end. Couldn't afford it unless it took me 10 years to complete. Always on the lookout for unfinished projects, probably the only way I could make it work.

I know 80%+ of my flying will be solo or with wife/son/friend/Young Eagle. I can rent a 4 seater for family trips until I build a BD-4 or RV-10.

I'm not into STOL or bush flying, but I may dabble if they plane is right. The plane should be capable of taking the wife to the coast for a romantic weekend.

Thoughts?
 
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