Q&A for How to Build an Airplane

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  • Question
    How do I fly a plane?
    Community Answer
    If you're looking to fly a plane legally and safely, you'll need to sign up for thorough training and your get your pilot's license.
  • Question
    Can I build a plane without fuel, but with wind turbines?
    Community Answer
    No, the electricity generation of the turbines spinning would slow the plane. If you mean can you build a plane with a rotor rather than a jet plane, that is what this article suggests you do.
  • Question
    How do i make clearance with the air traffic controllers?
    Brett Gilbert
    Top Answerer
    Install a radio in the flight panel inside your plane. Adjust the frequency when you approach the airport. They may not respond to you at first, but eventually they will radio back with some directions.
  • Question
    Where can I can download aircraft plans for free?
    Community Answer
    There is a subsection of the Deep Web, known by some as the Air Web. Here you can find detailed descriptions of airplanes and other flying machines, some of which have been "re-engineered" by the government. Do not spend too much time looking at them, as you may suffer pain from your government-installed subcutaneous implants.
  • Question
    How do I make a rubber band powered plane with materials in my home?
    Brett Gilbert
    Top Answerer
    You can make a basic plane out of paper or balsa wood. Use the rubber band to connect the propeller to the rest of the plane. Wrap it tightly to give the propeller power. There are some Youtube videos available that can show you how to do this. Have fun!
  • Question
    What holds an airplane up in the air?
    Community Answer
    The pressure created on the bottom of the wing lifts aircraft. this is called lift.
  • Question
    What holds an airplane up in the air?
    Community Answer
    When taking off, a plane uses motor wheels to move fast. Because of the curve of the plane wings, more pressure builds up on the bottom of the plane's wings than the top. The difference in pressure lifts the plane up.
  • Question
    What's the strongest, lightest, fastest, and most inexpensive material I can use?
    Community Answer
    Aluminium is your best bet; stronger, lighter and faster than wood (and can be less expensive), but way easier and cheaper than composite materials.
  • Question
    Are guns on airplanes legal?
    Community Answer
    No, not on commercial flights. On personal planes, it is legal to bring guns since you own the plane and aren't under law to keep it off.
  • Question
    Does my plane need to carry two black boxes?
    Brett Gilbert
    Top Answerer
    Black boxes typically are not required. Home-built planes are small and light, so chances are the boxes will get in the way. However, consult with your country's aviation administration to make sure.
  • Question
    Is it legal to build an airplane in the U.A.E?
    Brett Gilbert
    Top Answerer
    As of now, you can, but ask the U.A.E's Aviation Authority for clarification. This may change as more planes head towards large cities like Dubai. You may not be able to fly near these areas.
  • Question
    How do I learn about making aircraft?
    Brett Gilbert
    Top Answerer
    There are quite a few ways now thanks to the Internet. You can always go to aviation events such as ones hosted by the EAA. They have workshops where you can work with materials. Also look online, such as at Youtube videos.
  • Question
    How do I create a simple electrical airplane containing a DC motor?
    Brett Gilbert
    Top Answerer
    You can make it out of Popsicle sticks or other material. Assemble the plane, then glue the motor to the front. Attach a propeller to it and wire the other end to a battery. There are some tutorials on Youtube you can use to get yourself started!
  • Question
    Where can I find the best ultralight aircraft packages?
    Community Answer
    Try looking at Zenair, Sonex, Quad City Challenger, or Rans Aircraft. They have quite affordable and easy-to-build aircraft kits. You may even find some on barnstormers.com for a reasonable price.
  • Question
    Can a home-built plane have more than 4 seats?
    Community Answer
    Yes, it just needs to be big enough to accommodate the four seats and have a bit more powerful engine to handle the extra weight.
  • Question
    How do I build my own private jet myself?
    Community Answer
    It depends on what country you're in. In most countries, there is a limit to how powerful the engine can be in home-built airplanes, and a jet engine will be far beyond the regulations.
  • Question
    What kind of modifications are allowed when making an airplane?
    Community Answer
    As long as it complies with all of the laws of your country and the airplane's specs allow for modification, go for it. Always check your airplane's specs sheet!
  • Question
    Can I use more than one engine if I am building an airplane?
    Community Answer
    If the plane requires two engines, then yes. Most home-built airplanes are single engine. Two engines would be very expensive. Most engines are around $20,000.
  • Question
    Can I make a war plane at home? I mean put anti-air weapons on a plane?
    Galasy4969
    Top Answerer
    Not legally. The only defensive features you could attach are chaff and flare dispensers.
  • Question
    Is it legal to build your own plane?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    In most countries, it is legal to build and fly your own plane. But to be sure, check the laws in your area. You can actually purchase a kit online that will guide you through the process of building an airplane that can be safely flown. However, before you can fly it, you need to have the plane registered with your government's aviation board, and you'll need a pilot's license.
  • Question
    Can I fly a plane without a pilot license?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    It depends on the plane, but generally, you need to have a pilot's license in order to fly an aircraft. However, some sports and recreational aircraft only require you to have a sport pilot license, which is much easier to obtain than a standard pilot's license. To be sure, look up your local rules and regulations regarding flying without a license.
  • Question
    How much does it cost to build an airplane?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    It depends on what type of airplane you want to build. You can purchase a basic building kit online for between $6,500 and $15,000, which will provide all the plans and materials you need to build the external structure of your plane. You could also find the plans to build an airplane online, and then purchase the materials yourself to save on costs.
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