6 ms·
Kits have become progressively simpler to build. The example like the RV below would conservatively take over 1500 hours. A newer Vans RV-12, much less. A Rans
by hindsightbias 7y ago
Kits have become progressively simpler to build. The example like the RV below would conservatively take over 1500 hours. A newer Vans RV-12, much less. A Rans S-21, possibly 600 hours. Looking at their wing build:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPJgm7qP3FY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPJgm7qP3FY
dramatically simpler than an RV-8. My -8A flying cost was about $75K a decade ago, it would probably take at least $90K today. An S-21 would probably be more.
Some kits come with a folding wing option, so they can be trailered.
The primary decider in the difficulty/time factor is community and your Technical Counseler [1] (usually a multi-kit builder and FAA approved). If you’re able to build near a very active community (Livermore has a lot of RVs), these people will show up at your house/hangar and get/keep you going. Amazing people who can teach you a lot.
1. https://www.eaa.org/eaa/aircraft-building/volunteer-assistance/eaa-technical-counselors https://www.eaa.org/eaa/aircraft-building/volunteer-assistan...