New Survey published on Amateur Built Aircraft (inc RV's) - Australia

[parqld]

Found this on the ATSB (australia) website thought some may find interesting (142 page report).

http://www.atsb.gov.au/media/625511/AR2007043_1.pdf

"Thinking about building or buying an amateur-built or experimental aircraft? Then a first step should be reading a new report on this category of aircraft issued by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau. The report is largely based on a survey that was sent to the owners and builders of VH registered amateur-built and experimental aircraft. The survey asked about the choice of aircraft, construction and modifications, test flights, transition training and maintenance. In the report the ATSB says: The intent of the survey was to gain a picture of amateur-built and experimental aircraft activities in Australia, and in doing so increase awareness of issues affecting the purchase, construction and continued safe operation of these aircraft among builders, owners, pilots, manufacturers and government?.
The survey found build challenge, personal satisfaction, aircraft performance, price, operational costs and the ability to perform maintenance were important reasons for buying an amateur-built or experimental aircraft. About 33 per cent of builders made modifications during the build, while 85 per cent of owners carry out all maintenance. Automotive engines and avionics presented the biggest challenges during the build, with most people reporting they had good access to resources during construction."