Time and Cost to Build

[aviator79]

Buying one someone already built is the best value if you want to fly. I think Kitfox is a few years out on SLSA orders. For building to be worthwhile, you have to value the experience of building. Honestly, even your $75k estimate is probably optimistic. $5k isn't much budget for a panel, and there are a bunch of $100 bills that add up over time.

[jrevens]

There is some "hidden value" in building your own though. There is the true value in really intimately knowing the airplane and all of it's systems from the very beginning. There is also the ongoing value of being able to sign off your own annual condition inspections. Then there is the value of pride in being able to say "I built that". Not trying to discourage you from buying, just pointing out that it is a wonderful life's accomplishment to build your own airplane... something that it is impossible to put a price on.

[efwd]

And John has done it more than once. Im already batting around the idea myself. Since I have one soon to fly, I can take as long as I want and space out the expense. It would be really cool to have one like the guy from Rotec with steam gauges. Minimalist approach.

[David47]

There is some "hidden value" in building your own though. There is the true value in really intimately knowing the airplane and all of it's systems from the very beginning. There is also the ongoing value of being able to sign off your own annual condition inspections. Then there is the value of pride in being able to say "I built that". Not trying to discourage you from buying, just pointing out that it is a wonderful life's accomplishment to build your own airplane... something that it is impossible to put a price on.

Applause for this John. Nicely put and totally agree.

[bbs428]

There is some "hidden value" in building your own though. There is the true value in really intimately knowing the airplane and all of it's systems from the very beginning. There is also the ongoing value of being able to sign off your own annual condition inspections. Then there is the value of pride in being able to say "I built that". Not trying to discourage you from buying, just pointing out that it is a wonderful life's accomplishment to build your own airplane... something that it is impossible to put a price on.

Agreed. Nicely said.

[NinerBikes]

You could get a big jump on things with this kit I just saw on barnstormers. Not mine.... JImChuk
KITFOX 6 • $33,000 • AVAILABLE FOR SALE • Kitfox 6 complete kit including Rotax 912 Uls new in box serial number 4426853. 3 blade whirlwind carbon prop and aluminum spinner, Kit includes complete interior kit, strut covers, grove main gear gundrilled, nav lights, nose wheel and pants, all basic instruments plus engine gauges, covering, glue, rv primer. All you need to complete the kit is paint and possible a few misc items. I am second owner, I just an just finishing kf5, I bought this for my son, his work changed and has no time to build. I will not sell separate . More photos are available. This kit is in excellent condition • Contact Gregg Davidson, Owner - located Burbank, CA USA • Telephone: 818-319-9616 . 818-3199616

I'm 5 or 6 months too late for this one, and he was 13 miles from me... Who ended up buying this one? Going to get my Sport Pilot's license and want to train and learn in my own plane, instead of a rental unit.... This was a trike, just what I am looking for in a 6 or 7 Super Sport. Sigh... a day late and a dollar short....

[NinerBikes]

Buying one someone already built is the best value if you want to fly. I think Kitfox is a few years out on SLSA orders. For building to be worthwhile, you have to value the experience of building. Honestly, even your $75k estimate is probably optimistic. $5k isn't much budget for a panel, and there are a bunch of $100 bills that add up over time.

My thoughts parallel yours. At 60 years of age, I would like to fly, not build. Or finish up someones close to finish kit build.

[jrevens]

My thoughts parallel yours. At 60 years of age, I would like to fly, not build. Or finish up someones close to finish kit build.

I can understand that feeling, but you are still a pretty young guy... I was quite a bit older than you when I started my Kitfox, and I test flew it this year at the age of 69.

[NinerBikes]

I can understand that feeling, but you are still a pretty young guy... I was quite a bit older than you when I started my Kitfox, and I test flew it this year at the age of 69.

Yes, but I would like to own the plane I learn in to get my Sport Pilot license in, not have to rent it, and then retrain to learn to fly another plane. In home ground school now... getting my ducks in a row.

[jrevens]

Yes, but I would like to own the plane I learn in to get my Sport Pilot license in, not have to rent it, and then retrain to learn to fly another plane. In home ground school now... getting my ducks in a row.

I understand, and that makes perfect sense... I was just poking a little fun at your "60 years of age" remark. I just hate to think of how old I am getting! I do admire your desire to do something like that at this stage of your life! Best of luck to you!