Hello everyone!
My name is Alexander 31 years old, but you can call me Lex. I’m from Germany, and I’m excited to join this forum to connect with fellow aviation enthusiasts.
Right now, I mostly fly gliders; as a student, that’s the most financially practical way to stay in the air.
Next year, after completing my studies, I plan to build a plane from scratch using plans rather than a kit, as I truly enjoy the building process itself. I’ll be working out of our family’s barn, which has plenty of space for this type of project.
The primary use for this plane will be affordable, short evening flights around the local area and visits to nearby fly-in events and airfields. I’m looking for something practical and enjoyable for these casual flights rather than extensive long-distance travel.
Here’s a summary of what I’m looking for in my ideal aircraft:
Must-have features:
Right now, the Sonerai 2 seems like the only fit for many of my requirements, but I’d love to hear any recommendations for similar planes that might suit my needs.
Looking forward to learning from everyone, sharing updates, and exchanging tips along the way!
Best,
Lex
My name is Alexander 31 years old, but you can call me Lex. I’m from Germany, and I’m excited to join this forum to connect with fellow aviation enthusiasts.
Right now, I mostly fly gliders; as a student, that’s the most financially practical way to stay in the air.
Next year, after completing my studies, I plan to build a plane from scratch using plans rather than a kit, as I truly enjoy the building process itself. I’ll be working out of our family’s barn, which has plenty of space for this type of project.
The primary use for this plane will be affordable, short evening flights around the local area and visits to nearby fly-in events and airfields. I’m looking for something practical and enjoyable for these casual flights rather than extensive long-distance travel.
Here’s a summary of what I’m looking for in my ideal aircraft:
Must-have features:
- Two seats: The second seat is mainly for my girlfriend (163 cm / 5'4" and 60 kg / 132 lbs), so it doesn’t need to be full-sized.
- Folding or removable wings: Compact storage is essential due to limited hangar space, and I’m used to setting up gliders, so that’s not an issue.
- 5 kg / 11 lbs baggage capacity: I’d like just enough space for a small camera backpack for photography.
- Compact design with good performance: I prefer a small, glider-like plane since I’m 173 cm / 5'8" and 68 kg / 150 lbs. I’d rather sacrifice space and weight than require a large, expensive engine.
- Plans build: I’d prefer a plans-based project rather than a kit to maximize hands-on building and keep costs low. I’m in no rush, so time isn’t a concern.
- Light aerobatic capability: Basic maneuvers like rolls and loops would be a bonus, and ideally, these should be included in the official manual for certification purposes in Germany.
- Material: I’d prefer wood, metal, or fabric construction, as I’m less experienced with composites and would rather stick to materials I can work with confidently.
- Biplane design: I have a particular love for biplanes! While I’m aware of models like the FK12 Comet (unavailable as a home build and composites) and the single-seat Fisher Youngster (this with 2 seat would the perfect plane), I’d love to find a two-seat biplane option for homebuilding.
Right now, the Sonerai 2 seems like the only fit for many of my requirements, but I’d love to hear any recommendations for similar planes that might suit my needs.
Looking forward to learning from everyone, sharing updates, and exchanging tips along the way!
Best,
Lex
