Workshop Title

    Length

    Price for EAA Member

    Regular Price

    Introduction to Aircraft Building

    2 Days

    $229

    $269

    The Introduction to Aircraft Building workshop provides an overview for the person who is undecided about whether to build an airplane or what type of airplane to construct. All of the options available are discussed along with “hands on” experience in composite construction, fabric covering and sheet metal construction. After the workshop, you should be able to make educated decisions as to whether building or restoring an aircraft is for you.

    The following is a brief outline of the material presented.

       

    A detailed discussion of the various segments of sport aviation is presented along with the applicable FAA regulations to include licensing your airplane. Selection of a project, tools and workshop space needed, skill levels required, and a brief history of each type of construction are all discussed in detail. Information on useful books and differences between building and restoring an airplane are presented. General discussion emphasizes the steps necessary to help you make an informed decision concerning the type of project that best suits you.

    The fun begins in the afternoon when composite construction is presented. You will spend most of the afternoon actually doing "hands-on" composite work. You will cut the foam and lay on the fiberglass, etc.. A discussion of composite airplanes is presented.

    The second day begins with fabric covering. You’ll get some hands on fabric covering experience by covering a rudder. You’ll also get to try your hand at rib stitching the fabric to the rudder.

     

    Student making a flat composite lay up

    In the afternoon, you’ll learn about sheet metal construction. You will then spend learning how to lay out, drill, deburr and drive rivets on a practice project. This will give you the opportunity to work with sheet metal and decide if this type of construction is something you enjoy.

    The day is concluded with a short slide show on aircraft hardware and then you are ushered through the decision making process to decide what project you will begin and which workshop you will want to participate in next.

    Class size is limited to insure individualized instruction. At the end of the 2 day workshop you will be familiar with all methods of airplane construction and you will also know what is required to build or restore your airplane.

    You may also register on the web by clicking on register The schedule for workshops may be found by clicking on Locations & Dates.

    Student Comments from Course Evaluations:

    “I came to the workshop with no previous builder experience. I now have a good foundation to start my first kitplane.” Scott B. from CA

    “It was exactly what I needed and was (as) advertised”. Robert S. from CA

    “Thanks for everything. This was a great idea for someone starting the process (of building a kit airplane).” David O. from CA

    “I don’t know if I will ever do a kit or restoration but I was after some fundamental knowledge (of aircraft construction) which is exactly what I got. Thanks.” Mark P. from CA

    “Really enjoyed the workshop – got my fee wet in a lot of areas.” Rich M. from WA

    “THANK YOU!” Name withheld

    “Really good. Totally changed my mind on what I thought I would like.” Mitch A. from Minnesota

    “It was an awesome experience” Tom T. from Minnesota

    “I really enjoyed this workshop. It gave me the confidence to know that I can begin my project when I select one. I really enjoyed the instructor too – very knowledgeable and accessible. Kirk R. from Colorado

    “Excellent introductory course.” Name withheld

       
         
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