Browsing barnstormers, I found the perfect project. For longer than I can remember I wanted to own an airplane. A few years ago I decided I wanted an amateur-built due to lower total operating costs, without the restrictions of the ultra-light class. I wanted a two-seat, aerobatic, simple and convenient weekender. Anything more complex than that I could always rent.
The choices were narrowed down to a Sonex or a Zenith CH650. I had read Jeff Schultz‘ blog and seen videos of the kits, in progress and built.
A popular, time-tested airframe from an existing company would ensure good support during the build, as I could learn from past experiences building similar aircraft. A kit would save time and probably some cost too. The motors were smaller and from lesser-known companies, but Continental and Lycoming motors are just too expensive. A Van’s would be nice, but prices have skyrocketed and it did not seem to be more cost-effective to build vs. purchasing a certified aircraft.
On Barnstomers, someone was selling an unfinished Sonex kit and Jabiru 3300. I wanted the Jabiru, which is significantly more powerful than the standard VW engine of the Sonex, and allows for a large weight increase. The seller was in Canada, so I would not have to bother with importing anything, and he seemed nice on the phone. With the encouragement of Molie I made an offer without even seeing it. $14,000 beaverbux seemed like a great deal; new Sonex-B kits start at a base price of $50k, without tax, transport, or engine!
I will be picking up Sonex #1279 on the weekend of May 4. Located near Windsor, ON, James Neely bought this kit, also unfinished, with the intention of building his second Sonex. His first Sonex was plans-built and took 11 years to complete. I hope I can finish mine in a little less time.
