What does "experimental" mean?
Your aircraft is not an EXPERIMENT! As defined by the FAA an Experimental Aircraft is an aircraft with a special airworthiness certificate allowing the aircraft to fly without having a type certificate or complying with is current type certificate. In our case this aircraft is amateur built without a type certificate giving it the experimental name. With 600 Velocitys flying we feel it is a very proven and capable aircraft.
How long does it take?
If you purchase the slow build kit it takes roughly 2000 man hours for your first build.
If you purchase the fast build kit, we cut out about 1000 man hour from that 2000 leaving you with 1000 hours to complete your aircraft.
Does the kit price include everything?
The kit price includes everything you need to build the airframe.
We have options for engine(s), avionics, interior and paint but these things are not included in the kit price.
When my plane is complete do I have to be a test pilot?
When one is ready for first flight at the factory we will have at least 2 of our techs go through your entire aircraft with you ensuring everything is in place and ready for its maiden voyage. Once this is complete we do offer test flights for $1000.00 and we also offer phase 1 completion for $95.00 per hour plus fuel ranging anywhere between $4,000.00 to $7,000.00 depending on the model/powerplant etc..
Who will train me?
We have certified flight instructors on staff with a transition training course equaling 5 hours of ground school and 5 hours of flight time learning the systems and how to fly the aircraft. Must come rated properly for the aircraft you are building/purchasing and all training is completed in our factory aircraft. Additional flight training is available if necessary.
Come ready to learn as this aircraft is different than the conventionals!
-Single engine training course: $1,900.00
-V-Twin training course :$2,500.00
Why does the Velocity not have flaps?
To put it simply flaps add lift. We have two lifting surfaces compared to the conventional aircraft which only has one with a horizontal stabilizer to direct pitch. When you put flaps in on a normal aircraft you have to re-trim the aircraft to accommodate that extra lift. In order to do this with a Velocity we would have to put flaps on both lifting surfaces and ensure that they would extend and retract all together at the same time which adds unnecessary complexity.
Does a Velocity fly differently than a normal aircraft?
When taking off in a velocity ease the stick back until you feel the nose start to rise then relieve some back pressure and let the aircraft fly itself off the runway while keeping the wings level.
When landing the aircraft simply fly it all the way on, arresting your decent centimeters above the runway. Let the mains touch first, continue flying the nose and set it down gently. A good landing in a Velocity looks so nice.
At slow speeds the aircraft requires more rudder than aileron due to the swept wing. This and the adverse yaw caused when using the ailerons is why we say come ready to learn! This aircraft is not hard to fly, in fact it is very simple, but it is different!
What does the head start program entail?
Whether you chose to go with the fast built kit or slow build kit, the headstart program offers the same service. You will spend two weeks at the factory going full speed ahead to get as much done on your aircraft with us as possible at the same time giving you hands on experience with fiberglass that you will use throughout your build.
Builder Assist program?
We charge $500.00 per month for you to use our climate controlled facility while building your aircraft. This includes all tools necessary for completion as well as infinite answered questions, while at the same time another aircraft is being built next to you that may be a little further a long for you to gather information from.
We charge $95.00 per hour to help with your build. All time spent is documented and available for your review before being invoiced.
How long does fiberglass last?
After a 30 year test on a roof in the mojave desert an authority on the subject of fiberglass has come to the conclusion that fiberglass painted white out in the sun will easily last 50 years while maintaining its structural integrity.
Is this possible with no previous experience?
Of course, fiberglass is a simple skill that takes patience and attention to detail. With a little practice and some determination almost anyone can build a composite aircraft!
Miscellaneous inquiries
Pressurized? No.
BRS Parachute? Definitely possible but will require a good amount of engineering
Deicing? No.
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