kjowen
Well Known Member
Being new to the sport, I just found out by reading the Feb. Sport Aviation that Lancair also has a factory builder assisted program. I was aware of the TWTT program for the sportsman for some time, I am sure there are others as well.
This got me to wonder, if VAN's has ever entertained a similar program, or for that matter, if anyone one besides myself would even be interested?
I have attempted a build the traditional way once before, but abandoned it, not just because I was building an aircraft similar to the one I ended up purchasing already flying, but I seem to have more of a jump in with two feet type of personality to get things done and the start, stop, start, stop schedule of the traditional build was very frustrating.
It seems to me a factory assist build program would be fairly attractive for a novice builder such as myself also for new builders with very little knowledge; To work beside and learn from Company associates with the correct tools and jigs would seem on the surface to be a great way to build confidence in future kit buyers and make significant progress on a build from the very start. I would also think that by dedicating 8 - 10 hours per day 6 days per week for two weeks or more would really improve one's skills and comfort level significantly.
I would think it would sorta be like going to summer school in college, you could get a whole semester of credit in about 6 weeks by going to class 2 1/2 hours per day instead of 50 mins over 12 weeks?
The quick build kit's I understand have become very popular and are a real time saver. I know you can also got the other route and pay someone to build the thing for you, i understand, however I still think a program of this type may be of some interest to some "on the fence" future kit builders. You get a great start on your airplane you built and an education at the same time.
Just thinking..... How about Van's opening a shop somewhere in the SE to try out this new business venture?
This got me to wonder, if VAN's has ever entertained a similar program, or for that matter, if anyone one besides myself would even be interested?
I have attempted a build the traditional way once before, but abandoned it, not just because I was building an aircraft similar to the one I ended up purchasing already flying, but I seem to have more of a jump in with two feet type of personality to get things done and the start, stop, start, stop schedule of the traditional build was very frustrating.
It seems to me a factory assist build program would be fairly attractive for a novice builder such as myself also for new builders with very little knowledge; To work beside and learn from Company associates with the correct tools and jigs would seem on the surface to be a great way to build confidence in future kit buyers and make significant progress on a build from the very start. I would also think that by dedicating 8 - 10 hours per day 6 days per week for two weeks or more would really improve one's skills and comfort level significantly.
I would think it would sorta be like going to summer school in college, you could get a whole semester of credit in about 6 weeks by going to class 2 1/2 hours per day instead of 50 mins over 12 weeks?
The quick build kit's I understand have become very popular and are a real time saver. I know you can also got the other route and pay someone to build the thing for you, i understand, however I still think a program of this type may be of some interest to some "on the fence" future kit builders. You get a great start on your airplane you built and an education at the same time.
Just thinking..... How about Van's opening a shop somewhere in the SE to try out this new business venture?
