Bravo Zulu Aviation

So, what if we were able to build an experimental plane with the end goal of using that plane for spreading the thrill of aviation to others; then donating the plane to somebody who might not otherwise be able to afford one?

Step 1: Obtain kit through donations (hopefully with help from kit manufacturers). Either a new kit, or potentially an abandoned kit from another builder.

Step 2: Build kit with help of community members and students (strong emphasis on EAA involvement and high school tech classes). Potentially a travelling activity with smaller parts of the kit (trailer to school grounds for after-school program)

Step 3: Potentially involve power-plant installation with a collegiate alternative fuels study project(?)

Step 4: Test fly the airplane and keep it for the first 100-200 flights, using it primarily to get the word out, and for Young Eagles flights.

Step 5a: Donate the airplane to someone; or to an organization that can continue to use it for a similar purpose. (maybe build a moose for rescue/aid work later on)

Step 5b: Or, sell the kit to fund the purchase of the next project.

Step 5c: Sell tickets for a sweepstakes to give the plane away, and still earn enough money to start over.

Step 5d: Keep the aircraft, use it for business related travel/marketing. Set up a program to lend it to student pilots who have non-owned aircraft insurance.

Initial funding would have to cover: Tools, Kit, and place to build.

Secondary funding: Marketing the idea(other than aggressive grassroots), research/education trips for company members, possible mobile build unit. Insurance for the build process(probably insurance to cover students/volunteers in the shop too)

Popularity: 13% [?]

Share This